The Official Particulars

2012-02-07T08:53:00.000-05:00

We shied away from the early Winter Carnival crowds this weekend and opted for a little time in the woods. Sledding hills are hard to come by this winter, most of them are treacherous sheets of ice, but if you're willing to walk a little you just might be in for a treat.

The best part of all?? Grilled cheese sandwhiches and hot cocco for lunch!!

8 Years Old

2012-02-02T06:30:00.000-05:00

At dinner a few weeks ago Josh was explaining how he left a message on a friends answering machine RSVPing for a party. Lennon looked curiously at him and promptly asked in disgust, "Why did you tell them you were obviously peeing?"

Silence....

The look of confusion on Josh's face was enough to send me over the edge. The giggles soon grew into chuckles and then full blown belly busting laughter.

Happy Birthday Baby!!

I love the way you see the world and all you bring to it

We have to thank Kate for teaching me a little knitting on my recent trip to Maine...

I returned a hero!!

Friday...

2012-01-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

:: this moment ::

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

Friday....

2012-01-06T09:29:00.001-05:00

:: this moment ::

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-28T15:41:00.002-05:00

::Christmas 2011 ::

(I didn't have my camera at my Dads house or my Moms...I did get suckered in to posing for pictures, so if you have some of those please send them to me!)

The girls found Nana's button tin, bracelet anyone?

Lennon was the first around the house!
(Yup, they run around the house in their suits every Christmas Eve.)

They all made it back in!!
(I am not crazy enough to join in...besides who else would take pictures!)

"Okay Mom...enough pictures, can we please come down!!!"

Watching "Home Alone" while I get breakfast ready and make the house suitable for company.

Testing out Lennon's new bongos. I think music will fill our ears for many years to come...

We wish you all a Happy New Year!!

Love - The Clement's

2011-12-02T08:37:00.001-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-11-15T21:28:00.001-05:00

Once upon a time there was a Mom with a dream. She dreamed of a place, a place where her children could exercise their imaginations,explore their creativity, be outside yet inside, and not be under her feet in the house. She dreamed of...The Fort.

This dream was embraced, started and abandoned within a few weekends of work. Soon, The Fort became an outdoor storage unit for excess wood and toys not affected by the elements. The lonely studded walls would taunt her in the summer as she wheeled the lawn mower around its naked frame, pleading to be dressed properly not left out in its birthday suit. Occasionally her children would ask about The Fort, only to be let down gently with weak explanations of time constraints and meager supply lists.

Jump forward to fall 2011:

The Fort...A Rebirth

Somehow a "free" weekend fell into our laps and The Fort's need for modesty overtook our imaginations and the four of us dove in. Josh and I took full advantage of the growth our children experienced during The Fort's naked hibernation and put them to work: swinging hammers, hauling boards, running for water, throwing the ball for the dog, and finally playing with the Tonka trucks pulled from under the floor boards.

The Fort received a huge makeover that weekend. There are few pictures from that weekend, as the camera was tucked early away to do some real work, so you'll have to be satisfied with my list of things accomplished:

:: metal roof secured and no longer a danger
:: studs reinforced
:: outer walls complete half way up
:: loft - leveled and floor installed
:: back wall window framed
:: door framed and installed
:: little bit of birch bark "siding" attached and LOVED

The dream is to "finish" The Fort slowly yet deliberately as time allows. In the meantime it's a place where the kids can use their imaginations and be creative as long as they are dressed appropriately prepared to deal with whatever Mother Nature blows in.

(Progress pictures promised!!)

2011-11-01T10:20:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween!!

Colton is dressed as Goku from the cartoon Dragonball Z Kai....don't ask, I don't know...

Lennon just HAD to be a ninja, because that's what Kenny and Merit were going to be...

His costume was great because he was so easy to spot while they were running from house to house last night. I just kept praying that the shadow on his heals was Lennon.

It took Josh about 45 minutes this morning to get his hair like that and 5 shampoo's to get it all out!!

They both slept in this morning...I think it really was a Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-28T09:57:00.002-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-10-24T16:45:00.001-04:00

Surprise!!

The table was set for 4, the candles were lit, the most wonderful meal was prepared...and this was at my chair. Life just doesn't get much better!!

2011-10-14T06:57:00.000-04:00

"When will I get to ride a horse??!!"

Sunday afternoon, Mom took the kids and I to Emerald Springs Ranch in Lake Clear for a trail ride. And of course she LOVED it!!!

Colton was nervous at first but found his comfort zone as he used the reigns to steer his horse though the mud. It was so nice to be out there with the best Mom/Mammee ever, Thanks!!

2011-10-07T07:00:00.000-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-09-30T06:57:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-09-23T06:54:00.000-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-09-18T15:25:00.000-04:00

Hello from Fort Ticonderoga!! We are having a beautiful weekend. Hope you are too!!

2011-09-09T07:00:00.000-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

(This week I just couldn't choose one. This boy loves to rock just like his Dad!!)

2011-09-06T15:30:00.002-04:00

This morning, I couldn't wait for them to go...

And now I can't wait for them to come home and tell me all about it!!

2011-09-02T06:55:00.000-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-08-23T11:49:00.002-04:00

It was a quick camp. In on Friday, out on Sunday, but it was worth every minute of "work" needed to make it happen. In the beginning I felt a little trepidation about the time frame and the amount of stuff to gather and transport for such a short time, but I found my groove, trusted my instincts and let the stress go.

I claimed a new mantra for the weekend: "If we don't have it. We don't need it."

Sure, we were only 15 minutes from home and I could "run' back for anything we forgot, but I had it in my head to relax and "running home" for little things was not an option. I got out of bed at 5 Friday morning (as Josh left for work) and spent two hours slugging coffee and gathering. Gathering cooking stuff, sleeping stuff, eating stuff, wearing stuff, dog stuff, swimming stuff, bug/sun repellent stuff and placing them into a huge pile for Josh to transport to our campsite that afternoon. I then got ready for work and tried not to worry about what stuff I forgot and focus on my job for the day.

Josh finished work, he collected the kids, collected my piles of stuff and gathered more stuff (boats, fishing gear, firewood, man stuff), crammed as much of this stuff as possible into the car and after a few trips, got all the stuff to camp.

I caught up to my crew at 6pm with a pizza and a smile as I took in the beauty that surrounded us: green trees, blue sky, deep blue water, blueberries peaking out from the bushes and a calm settled over me. No TV, no internet, no video games, no laundry (I did dread the loads we would bring home a little), no lawn to mow, no floors to clean, just the breeze rustling the leaves and the loons partying it up late into the night.

We had a wonderful time. Thunderstorms woke us on Sunday morning and we abandoned camp earlier than planned, but the afternoon brought naps, hot showers and a renewed appreciation for the comforts of home.

Early morning fishing...

Sunshine playing in the trees...

"Dad! Please put my kayak down..."

Loving the many tunnels and bridges....

Dodging the smoke while cooking your own dinner...

Yup, the kids had their own tent!....

Bailey saying "thank you" for all the room to run and swim...

Turning the camera on ourselves! : )

2011-08-05T16:29:00.003-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-08-04T14:19:00.001-04:00

We have been enjoying some absolutely splendid summer weather. Enjoying it so much in fact that my house is ~~a bit~~ very bedraggled, the lawn is extremely shaggy (almost jungle like), the flower garden is full of weeds, and I didn't even attempt to plant veggies. As school came to a close and Josh's career path wobbled like a top at the end of its spin, I had this sense of urgency to make this summer unforgettable.

Half way through (and with Josh finding his place at our local radio station) we have been to the beach more times than I can count, had a few raucous play dates, paddled the full length of Rainbow Lake in anticipation of the rope swing dangling over the waters edge (twice) and stayed up just a little too late on a few occasions.

Now that Josh is gainfully employed and has a regular work schedule (not that I think waking up at 4am is regular but that's news/entertainment), our excursions have to be planned a little more carefully, but we've managed to squeeze in plenty of fun. Last weekend we took the dog (poor guy has to hang out in said jungle-like-yard and likes to pee on the few flowers in bloom...I think he does it to make me feel bad about his lack of attendance in our little adventures so far) and walked into Moose Pond. It's a very nice leisurely trail through tall pines and lush undergrowth that ends at a beautiful pond with several outcroppings perfect for swimming.

We even found a few raspberries on the walk out!

2011-07-29T06:58:00.000-04:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-07-15T10:00:00.001-04:00

{this moment}

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-07-08T07:05:00.005-04:00

{this moment}

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

(Thank you SouleMama for this wonderful idea.)

2011-07-01T07:00:00.004-04:00

{this moment}

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

2011-06-24T07:00:00.008-04:00

{this moment}

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

(Thank you SouleMama for this wonderful idea.)

2011-06-12T21:40:00.001-04:00

I got a few hours of work done, then we had a few hours of fun!! Thank you Mamee and Chris for being soo much fun, we had a great day!!

2011-06-05T09:47:00.001-04:00

"Exploring the Adirondacks with Colton Clement"

::Silver Lake Bog::

2011-05-15T10:04:00.000-04:00

I had the pleasure to be with my husband yesterday watching him do what he loves. Filming. Planing. Directing. Creating. Having the most awesome relationship with his son. I won't be a spoiler and tell the whole tale of the day, but it rained and the bugs were a nuisance in more ways than one. In spite of the weather and the little challenges it was an absolute joy to watch him work.

(For those of you who might have missed it check out the following links for my boys most recent achievements: Exploring the Adirondacks with Colton Clement and Josh and Colton's interview on PBS!)

Superhero's and short sleeves

2011-04-11T12:25:00.001-04:00

The forecast called for rain, lucky for us it held off until the evening hours and we had time to ramble along a back road we like to frequent. Always up for an adventure, Dad led the way down a snowy path to see the short skirt of slush encircling the lake. We soon discovered that in order to "walk light" and not break through the crust, you have to hold your arms "light" and float them away from your body. What a bunch of ungraceful geese we were! At the end of the walk my ankles were only slightly damp...solid proof of my keen ablity to walk in Josh's footprints!

2011-03-27T13:44:00.001-04:00

The 10th Guitar Cake

Every year Josh has embraced the task of designing a new guitar cake for Colton. We have all of the pictures somewhere, maybe I'll get my hands on them to show them off. Creativity at it's best!!

We SURVIVED!! We hosted our first sleepover of 10 year-old boys last night. As expected there were a few arguments, a little blood, lots of gross talk, giggling, and not a lot of sleep. I think it was a success.

Luckily, one of his friends has a little sister in first grade with Lennon and she spent the night too!

2011-03-21T10:51:00.001-04:00

Sunday brought the first day of spring and an excellent chance to get out and soak up some sun...at least as much as we could through our minimally exposed areas of skin. The sunshine was bright and the sky a brilliant blue. We disregarded the signs at the trail head and walked the trail sans snowshoes or skis, we also brought Bailey. Colton, being ever aware of the posting of rules, read this sign and immediately pointed out our rule-breaking. I had to think quick, proclaiming that the sign posted "winter rules" and seeing that it was the first day of spring they did not apply. (Thankfully we met only one other person on the trail, and he too was clad in boots and accompanied by his dog.)

"Adirondack Blue" is a term I remember hearing when we first moved here, almost 20 yrs ago. Very few days can gain this status. I believe we had one yesterday.

Not to let on that we might be escaping the torments of a typical spring here in the Adirondacks, it is snowing hard right now with a forecast of up to 8 inches of heavy wetness by dinner time.

My baby turned 7

2011-02-10T20:54:00.001-05:00

Seven years ago she was introduced to this world of ours.

She starts every day with a strong will and a rush to the finish.

When she allows herself to slow down, the world just seems to stop and listen.

She is an amazing friend, not only to her peers but to her Mother as well.

I Love You Babe!!

Outdoor Fun

2011-01-11T09:30:00.000-05:00

I promise to add more words to this little blog this year. In the meantime, I thought these picture could speak for themselves. We had a great weekend!!

Fireworks on Upper Saranac

2011-01-01T11:58:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Making Music

2010-12-28T11:43:00.001-05:00

She waited her "whole life" to have her very own guitar.

Happy Christmas!!

2010-12-15T22:45:00.000-05:00

Colton's Room Laws

2010-10-27T14:38:00.002-04:00

The Dead End sign has been there for a while, but the rules are new. (Someday I know I won't get such preferential treatment!)

Girls Day Out

2010-10-13T13:50:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was Lennon's field trip to Bankers Apple Orchard in Plattsburgh. (Lucky for me the original date was rescheduled due to the million inches of rain that fell, and I got to attend the festivities yesterday.) It was a beautiful fall day, bright sunshine and cool. I thought I was being a bit over cautious with the "winter" coat I sent her in, but by the end of the day I was happy with the choice.

First on the agenda was a wagon ride around the fields. As opposed to last year when she didn't really care where I was, she sat on my lap for the whole trip. Then it was off to the pumpkin patch to choose our pumpkin (this is a major decision and needs much thought, many squeezes of your Moms hand, and the occasional quick thumb-suck when you are sure no one is looking). Once the perfect pumpkin was selected, we were instructed on the correct way to pick our apples and sent into the neat rows of trees to select 5 perfect apples (another major decision that takes careful thought and some worried hope that the "one" you were unsure of and bypassed a few minutes ago is still there).

(Much of these tasks were performed hand-in-hand and without much interaction with our fellow Orchard Adventurers.)

Apples selected, we dropped our booty off in the car and found the perfect picnic table for lunch, right next to the smelly goat pen. Lennon nibbled half-heartedly on her sandwich and then declined a cider donut...this really made me wonder. After feeding the goats and llamas, we said goodbye to her teacher and headed for the car.

"Mom?"

"Yes Babe, what's up?"

"Never mind."

I stopped and bent down to hear her better. "Do you need something Hun?" She then rolled her eyes at me and groaned, "Not here...we're in public!"

Only when we were safely in the car and on our way to the mall did she feel ready to share with me. A little voice whimpered from behind my right ear, "Mom, I really don't feel that great. My throat hurts and my head hurts and I'm sleepy..." I glanced over my shoulder to see her pale little face and my heart melted.

Our original plan was a little shopping and then dinner somewhere that would consist of only appetizers. In the end I made the exchange I needed to make and she picked out a cute bathrobe, then we grabbed take-out soup for dinner. She slept the whole way home and today, even though she's sick, she's happy to be getting day number two of just the girls.

Momsters in the night

2010-09-14T21:47:00.001-04:00

In the middle of the afternoon I might catch one of the kids looking at me with a curious glint in their eye and I have to wonder, have they found me out? Do they know what a horrid mother I really am? Can they see through my daytime Mommy costume and remember the sleep crazed monster that lumbers around the house in the middle of the night, roughly “tucking in” and impatiently “listening” to the absurd bad dream about French toast that woke them up.

I am not good in the middle of the night.

Everyone has a little glitch, something they can’t do well, like poaching eggs or drawing stick figures. I know this and I could handle my lack of control for eight hours while I recharge, if it didn’t affect my family. My glitch hovers over my children in the middle of the night, this dark ominous cloud of tired grouchiness attempting to sooth and comfort. How are they not terrified by this? How does Josh manage to fall back to sleep after my moody toss of the covers, grunts of impatience and the blackness of my soul seeping out onto the sheets?

For nine and a half years I have attempted to contain my inner nightmare, only sharing my treacherous deeds with my poor family. For a little while I secreted away this little hope that I would get better, find the time to listen attentively and gently coddle my poor babies in their time of need. Unfortunately, the dreadful fact remains that I am a real life Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. I guess it’s time to accept the fact that I would cut off my arm for my child, but I cannot contain the "momster" lurking about in the middle of the night.

Pictures!!

2010-08-07T10:24:00.000-04:00

It took a little time but the pictures from our trip have been sorted, sized and organized (Thanks Josh!). They are now in Picassa and hope you enjoy. This time I'm going to let the pictures tell the story. Clement Photo Album NC 2010 (I did have fun adding all the captions)

Just a little taste...

2010-07-23T12:44:00.000-04:00

While Lennon takes a much needed (and deserved) nap and Colton sits in the blistering heat with his book I thought I would post a little teaser of our vacation. Enjoy!! (we have!!!)

Good Morning!

2010-07-20T07:48:00.000-04:00

Perspective...

2010-07-18T20:29:00.001-04:00

Sitting in a plastic Adirondack chair I look through the deck spindles and spy my beautiful family diligently digging in the sand. Jack Johnson lingers in the air from a neighbors boom box reminding me of two nights ago in Virginia Beach. I was walking around the village of vendors with Colton as we waited for Jack to begin his set. It was still hot, 90+ degrees and humid, we were sticky and praying for a breeze. The crowd was easy going, everyone making way for each other, nods of hello to strangers sharing in the atmosphere of harmony and simplicity. Suddenly, a smallish hand found my hand and stuck there, giving me an unforeseen thrill. This little event, this sticky, not so little hand grasping mine on a hot summer night will forever linger in my memory as one of the few glimpses at his unabashed love for me; for I know he loves me dearly, but "tween-hood" is upon us and it isn't cool to let anyone know you love your parents.

A Wednesday Paddle

2010-07-09T11:36:00.000-04:00

Life just doesn't get any more peaceful...

Oh, the stories they tell...

2010-06-27T19:11:00.000-04:00

Lots and lots of laughter at our house Saturday night. :)

Josh's Birthday Hike

2010-06-06T07:38:00.000-04:00

The last time Josh and I took a hike of any size Colton was in a backpack getting the ride of his life. This spring with both kids in school full day and Josh on a little hiatus before his summer class, we found a little grown up time. We have been talking about a nice hike for what seems to be years...now that I think of it it probably has been years. So in celebration of Josh's upcoming birthday and because the weather was gorgeous and because we could, we hiked St. Regis Mountain last Wednesday. It is not a huge mountain by any means, but the 6.8 mile round trip is a bit to long for little legs (although I do believe Colton could do it now). We saw one person all day, just a quick how-do-you-do on the way in. It was a beautiful day and with a little deet bath not even the bugs could be worth the worry.

My sweet little man

2010-06-01T12:24:00.000-04:00

I just love his dimples in this picture so I thought I would share it. He's showing off the new paper airplane design he invented.

Lennon rides again!

2010-06-01T12:22:00.001-04:00

My baby had quite the weekend. Friday she spent the day with Dad (no school...unused snow day) and took a little spin on Grampa Pete's "Hog"!

Then on Sunday while the boys were working on the dock, the girls took a little spin in the tractor!

And before I know it, she'll be begging for the car keys!!

Spring Soccer

2010-05-04T10:51:00.001-04:00

I sat at the top of the hill last night and marveled at the swarms of kids chasing soccer balls around the field. When I first mentioned spring soccer Lennon was very wishy-washy, "I do, I don't, I do, I don't" over and over. I had to take matters into my own hands and sign her up anyway. On Sunday we purchased new pink soccer shorts and socks; everything was okay now. "When is soccer starting?" It's amazing what at little shopping will do to a girl.

The decade no one remembers!

2010-04-19T20:34:00.001-04:00

Flashing back to the 60's!

Come out, come out, where ever you are!

2010-04-07T10:14:00.000-04:00

The three amigos

2010-04-06T18:35:00.001-04:00

Our buddy Kyle came over to play and spend the night. Thankfully the weather cooperated and it didn't rain so I could send the craziness outside. I was trying to get some housework done when I was pulled out the door to supervise the ladder placement and the precarious efforts to conquer the tree.

Adding to the collection...

2010-04-01T18:07:00.001-04:00

Spring break is just too much to take!! (And guess who got a new camera...)

Out of the mouths of heathens

2010-03-12T10:52:00.002-05:00

I sat at the computer, staring at a scrabble game when I was rocked out of my stupor by the pounding of feet coming down the stairs. "MOM!" I begrudgingly turned my head from the screen. "Yes?" It comes out in a sigh I cannot hide, I wanted one minute to play a word...this scrabble thing is starting to get in the way of normal life.

Lennon stands defiantly in front of me and whines, in her best whiny voice, "Colton says God is a man, but I say God is a woman...and it's not fair he won't listen to me!!" Josh walks by as the words tumble out of her mouth and gives me a look that says, All you Hun!. I try to gently calm her down and then proceed to spew forth something like, "God isn't a thing you can touch, not a human being like me and you. God is an idea, a belief that people turn to to help them do good things and make good decisions. God can be anything you want it to be. If you believe that God is a woman, that's fine. And Colton can believe God is a man. Everyone is entitled to their own beliefs, and we have to respect that."

She looks triumphantly at Colton, very proud that she was indeed right. Colton then decides to defend his side by saying, "Then why in my Bible do they call God "him"? He must be a man." His arms are crossed and he does not want to be wrong, how can the Bible be wrong? I start sputtering about the he/she thing and how much longer the Bible would be if they wrote it that way when Josh finally comes to my rescue.

"For all we know guys, Bailey thinks God is a dog...maybe he's right."

That just sent us all in to a fit of giggles and the tension floated away. Fwewh...all I wanted was to play a word on scrabble, but now I'm to tired to think.

Romantic Rendezvous

2010-03-02T15:42:00.003-05:00

For those of you following facebook and for those of you who are not...Josh and I found our date night away. We will be heading across the pond (Lake Champlain) for a night at The Essex in Burlington. After much thought, and some helpful ideas from my facebook friends we decided that this trip should be about a bit of pampering. Our future is such a list of "what-ifs" right now and the days just keep rolling by. We thought it would be nice to take a little down time and just enjoy each other. (Knowing full well that no matter which way the road bends, we will all be together. And that's all that matters!!)

No picture

2010-02-16T19:24:00.003-05:00

Our camera died. I feel very lost and guilty. Shouldn't I be documenting everything my kids are doing? They change so fast. Josh's father has given us his old camera and I am very grateful, but it's a pain in the ass to get the pictures from the camera to the computer. So I don't use it. I think I need to research a new camera.

Excuses

2010-02-05T10:48:00.003-05:00

I should be hiding my head in the sand...it's already February and this is my first post of 2010!! How awful! I have no excuses, well maybe one. I have been greedy with my alone time. I have to admit that I do not focus well when the kids are home (and awake). There are too many demands for action that must take place right now, not one second later, the fate of the whole world depends on my ability to get up and walk (very quickly) upstairs and look at the lady bug on Lennon's bed post. NOW!!! No Mom, you can't finish that sentence! It might have moved! Please! Hurry! Stop typing, are you done yet?

Okay, I have one more excuse. Facebook. Need I say more? That damn thing gets in the way of almost everything. And I love it. Well, I think I love the scrabble part the best, but the "social-networking" part is pretty fun too. And quick. But, I miss my lovely little blog. I am hoping to get back here much more often. It isn't fair of me to be disappointed when I check in on another blog and nothings new. I haven't been too entertaining either. I'll try to sit down a bit more and share a little of our lives with you. The bathroom doesn't need to be that clean and that book next to my table will still be there and I think my husband still remembers my name (more on his school adventures later).

Can you find me?

2009-12-28T20:49:00.001-05:00

My little blast from the past...soccer in Hawaii. Doesn't get better than that!!

Between Turkeys

2009-11-29T09:21:00.003-05:00

At any age holiday's can be stressful and exhausting. But when you're five and your parents drag you around the countryside to eat multiple turkey dinners...you need a little rest in the middle.

She couldn't wait to get to Great-grandma's house and take off those tights, only to be disappointed that her knees where still dirty underneath!

(P.S. Can anyone tell me if I need the apostrophe in the title?)

The Woes of Catwoman...

2009-11-23T20:25:00.003-05:00

I'm not exactly sure how it happened, but I was Catwoman for Halloween this year. I went from no idea, to maybe a repeat clown getup, to shimmying my way into a black, shiny, plastic-like, one piece with buckled boots and red lipstick. I remember the conversation when the band idea of Batman Villains was confirmed, I remember the other girls telling me of their theme from "The Nightmare Before Christmas" but I can't put my finger on the actual conversation where in I agreed to such an outfit. I think someone slipped something in my drink one night...and seeing as we don't get out much I'll give you one guess on who it was.

Anyway the suit was ordered, boots were bought, makeup studied and wine was drunk before leaving the house. I dared myself to do it in the end, how much more out of character could I get, would I ever be in this position again? Why the hell not! Aside from my own physical insecurities and my husband complaining that I would get hit on while he was playing...remember it was his idea, I had one other problem. One long unreachable zipper right up the middle of my back; my only escape route. In the course of the evening I had to invite several strangers, including Raggedy Andy, to unzip me so I could go to the bathroom. (I did have the forethought to wear a tank top underneath.)

I had my fill of the evenings attractions by about 1 am and said my goodbyes. When I arrived home all I wanted was a shower. I walked into our bedroom, removed my boots and then it hit me...I was still zipped! Josh was still playing his third set and wouldn't be home for hours yet. How in the world was I going to get out of this damn outfit? It took me twenty minutes, a coat hanger and a few massive wedgies before I was finally free. If only there had been a video camera to tape the battle between me and the suit, especially Bailey sitting there with his head cocked to one side wondering what I was doing!

Pooh Sticks

2009-11-12T18:01:00.001-05:00

Sunday afternoons can be so much fun!

(I think Bailey wanted to jump...but he's really a big chicken!)

Kids Halloween 09

2009-11-02T10:39:00.002-05:00

This is what Halloween does to a kid...absolute maddness.

My little police-woman had a great time arresting Angus (of AC/DC guitar hero fame).

Good Morning!

2009-10-13T08:50:00.000-04:00

Bye, Uncle Tim!!

2009-10-13T08:41:00.002-04:00

On Saturday we met Tim in Lake Placid for a farewell lunch. He is now off on a 6 month adventure with his buddy Shawn. I hope they have a great time. The plan is to tour breweries across the country and end up in Portland for the winter. Good luck guys and please be safe!!

Carpet Stains

2009-09-28T21:16:00.003-04:00

I am now in possession of more child-free hours than I have had in eight years, six months and 13 days, and I'm a bit lost. That's not to say that I am sitting alone in quiet introspection desperately trying to find something to do, that I am not. I have found that when both of your kids are in school for the full day, your closet of demons explodes right in the middle of your living room, leaving you disoriented, confused and not sure how to remove demon from a wool carpet. I have tons to do.

The summer months have left our house in camouflage mode, that is to say if you walked in for a visit you would find it perfectly presentable, a little bedraggled but nothing you wouldn't expect from a house with two kids and a dog. Stay for a few days and you might notice that things aren't what they seem. Sure there aren't any bits of sand sticking to the bottom of your bare feet as you pad around the house but in the shower you wonder how they got so black. As you step outside into the bright morning sunshine to greet the day you might notice how it didn't seem so intense in the dining room. And you must be cautious while exploring the corners of any room for you might be taken down by a great, floating, sticky, creepy phenomenon known as the cobweb.

I have to admit that in spite of the floors, windows and cobwebs I have taken a little time in these first few weeks of school to enjoy life a bit...I even went back to bed after the kids got on the bus last Tuesday! I do feel the joy ride coming to a close. If I am going to spend the next eight months sequestered from the cold and snow in these four walls, they might as well be clean. And who knows, maybe while toiling in the midst of cluttered kitchen cabinets and demon stained carpet I might figure out what I want to be when I grow up!

Football 09

2009-09-16T11:04:00.002-04:00

I just LOVE this picture!

First day of school!

2009-09-02T09:48:00.002-04:00

No time to reflect on the absence of my kids for 7 hours every weekday now, I just might get teary. Gotta go walk with Mom and Grandma and not think of how independent they are.

(They still need me, right?)

2009-08-21T20:36:00.007-04:00

I have been sitting at the computer with this same blank screen for over an hour now. I had hopes of capturing the last month, pulling it down and weeding my way though the memories and pictures and then somehow producing this amazing synopsis of life with the Clement's. This however is not in the cards. My lovely children have decided against sleep tonight and will not give me a moments peace to think. I have been up and down the stairs exactly 14 times in the last 40 minutes, not much of a window for creative thought.

9:11 PM. Lennon hasn't made a demand in a few minutes (maybe she's sleeping) and Colton has just finished his book. Here goes!

After months of waiting we finally went to Maine! We were there for 7 days and enjoyed every one of them. Our first day was a little turbulent and led to the purchase of a new tent, screen tent and air mattress at Wal-Mart (not the ideal place to spend your first day in Maine). Once camp was set up we settled in for the week.

Thursday we met up with Kate and Adam. We talked, ate, talked, walked down the long breakwater, talked, found a great little beach and talked. So much fun and it left me wishing we lived closer to eachother.

I could go on and break down each and every day after that but I think a few pictures will do the trick. We didn't want to come home and will go back soon! Vacations are wonderful!

(Lennon took this picture!)

Site 36, Lower Saranac Lake

2009-07-23T21:07:00.004-04:00

We enjoyed a beautiful little camping trip on Lower Saranac Lake two weeks ago and the proof is still to be seen by the enormous tent hanging patiently in the back yard waiting to dry out. I will spare the details of how incredibly wet this summer has been and I will not complain about the lack of sunshine or warmth. Instead I will post a few pictures, make a few comments and continue to procrastinate my packing list for our upcoming adventure in Maine. (We leave in 5 days...plenty of time, right?!)

Someone had fun being barefoot!

Fishing was the all-time favorite past time.

(With that view who can blame them!)

The big catch...sure was tasty!

"Polar Bear" club in May

2009-05-23T20:43:00.003-04:00

Anyone who has ever visited the Adirondacks in the summer and stood at the edge of one of our lakes can attest to their beauty. If ever a visitor got a little notion of enjoying a swim in one of the aforementioned lakes, they might be in for a surprise. When a body of water is frozen for what seems like more months than not, the water might be a little chilly. I'm not sure exactly when the ice left Lake Clear this year, but it hasn't been long enough for me. Yes, Thursday was hot, 86 degrees hot to be exact, but the wind was pleasant and I had no desire to submerge myself. My family had other ideas!

It only took them a few minutes of tip-toeing around to get out to a decent depth. After a few bounces of self assurance, Colton was the first to go under. It had to take his breath away and with the wind blowing full force he quickly opted to remain in the water.

Josh followed suit and poor Lennon trying to return safely to shore fell to her own demise. Being more wet than she intended, she opted for her favorite beach activity...rolling her wet body in the sand. Being the only "wise" member of the group, I dutifully took pictures and held up warm towels around little wet bodies. It was a good start to swimming season 2009. Let's see who's brave enough to endure the waters of Maine this summer!!!

Keeping up

2009-05-11T20:39:00.002-04:00

It is a quiet Monday night. The kids are sleeping and Josh is in Plattsburgh until tomorrow afternoon. Bailey must have had a rough day because he has commandeered the couch and is snoring. The hum of the computer and the occasional whirl from the sump-pump is all I can hear. My ears just might go numb!

In effort to keep my blog current and somewhat entertaining I will share some of the creations that have taken over my refrigerator since the purchase of "Magnetic Poetry" over the long winter. (Josh and I are rarely allowed to post anything...or if we do it is swiftly demolished by idol hands)

--mother diamond
--always worship music or chocolate
--d for d
--summer goddess needed
--hot have ugly
--the flood of whisper
--diamonds drunk
--all leg

Belated Easter AM Pictures

2009-04-23T14:53:00.002-04:00

The bunny splurged this year. Living in the North Country kind of limits bike giving for Christmas or birthdays. We have even had some decent weather, between snowflakes, to ride them! I will post some more pictures from our first riding adventure (8 am at Bloomingdale school on Easter morning) and our kite flying with Mammee and Chris on Picassa.

Spring hiking

2009-03-30T20:41:00.002-04:00

This past Saturday was one of those spring days in the Adirondacks where if you aren't outside you should be shot, at least in my humble opinion. The sun was out in all her glory, bringing freshness to the stale leftovers of winter. Our adventure of choice this fine day was Mt. Joe. A mountain of short stature but great pride with the most wondrous views of the surrounding high peaks. Once at the top you just don't know which way to look.

The kids did a great job, even on the very icy spots. Lennon made it up and down by her own power and with only minor scrapes. Colton, being the practiced mountaineer that he is did an awesome job, and is proudly sporting the most magnificent bruise on his derriere. (I am happy to be on spring break for fear he might be compelled to show the whole school!)

Yellow belt

2009-03-10T18:35:00.004-04:00

Sometimes, pictures speak louder than words. I am so proud!

Saranac Inn

2009-02-17T20:46:00.005-05:00

You will find some of the nicest people in the North Country in the little community of Saranac Inn (my Mom and Chris being first on the list of course). Just down the road from them, on a quaint little pond live "Father" Bob and "Sister" Kit. I put their titles in quotations because they are retired from the church, but for some reason those titles stay with you forever. Every year they deck their house out to the max for Christmas...and I mean the MAX. They should be featured on one of those TV shows about over-the-top Christmas decorators. (My Aunt Donna would call them "Christiclazians" as well because I have noticed that a lot of the decorations are up all year...I love that term!)

Anyway...getting back to our adventure...they live on a little pond and Kit keeps a little ice rink cleared all winter. In her basement she has collected an enviable assortment of ice skates, just for those visitors who might be in need of a little fresh air and adventure. (I am a little embarrassed to report we do not have ice skates, so this came in handy.) On Sunday, Mom called and asked if we wanted to come and skate. Josh had a bunch of homework to do and I needed to get the kids out of the house, this was perfect. The sun was shining, the air was clean and crisp, and the only people there to witness our follies were family, you can't ask for more! The kids did great and had a wonderful time, although the highlight for them might have been plowing the pond with Chris on the four-wheeler. (click on the Picasa link to the right for more pictures)

Hold on tight!

Somehow I caught her just right.

Lennon, Libby and Great-Grandma.

Only Colton would try push-up on the ice, thank you toe-picks!

Colton in charge!

I wouldn't let that face drive! Would you?

Carnival 09'

2009-02-11T20:35:00.002-05:00

Monday evening after work, karate and pizza at Mr. Mikes we made our annual excursion to the Ice Palace. This year due to some bitter temperatures ice blocks were plentiful. We have a large palace with tunnel and maze on the back, a Pirate Ship complete with masts (one of which they caught on fire at the lighting ceremony...fireworks!), down near the lake they built a little tower with a wooden door and lounge chairs outside, and at the park by the town hall we have a ice pyriamid. We had a great time, Lennon met a friend from school and disappeared for a minute but other than that it was fun. We might have stayed longer but we were all a bit tired and someone (I won't mention who) forgot the bag with snowpants, hats, gloves, etc and we got cold quick. The plan was to go into town and get some daytime shots this week, I love the color of the ice in the sunshine, however due to the 45 degree weather and rain all afternoon I'm not sure it will look so good (or that we'll be allowed near it). Here are a few of my favorites from that night!

Who knows it might still be pretty...stay tuned!

"I just can't wait!"

2009-02-03T20:29:00.002-05:00

This is what happens when you have spent all day waiting for people to come over for the Super Bowl...and it just so happens to be your "Birthday Weekend"...

another picture for the photo album, "Lennon Sleeps"!

Getting close...

2009-01-27T17:00:00.003-05:00

What better way to pass the time during the long Adirondack winter than a really, really, really hard puzzle. My Grandma and I have been spending hours bent over, noses in the rubble, sorting and sifting, begging for the right pieces to float into place. Sometimes you can hear every tiny sound her house makes, and if you listened hard enough you might even hear the snow piling up on my car. Other times, (most of the time) we're chatting, drinking tea, cheering our little accomplishments, and keeping her little dog Libby occupied (i.e. throwing her toy over and over and over again). As you can see we're getting close, but not there yet. It will be hard to put away...but we have to have room for the next one, right?

Overnight guests

2009-01-18T08:39:00.002-05:00

I sit here in the middle of chaos. Not just the normal Clement chaos, but the Clement chaos mixed with the Lewis chaos. Kyle (8) and Adam (2) spent the night with us last night so their Mom and Dad could have a nice evening. Four kids is not as bad as you might think except when the youngest isn't yours and you have no idea what he might get into. Adam is a sweet boy and actually very well behaved, but I get a little nervous leaving him in the living room or letting him play with the big kids upstairs. I'm constantly running around to make sure he's okay, only to find him sitting in Colton's toy box playing with a truck or lounging on the couch with his blanket and sippy cup.

Nap time

2009-01-10T15:41:00.000-05:00

Such a tough life!

Making new friends...

2008-12-14T21:14:00.006-05:00

Yep, that's me and Josh in the middle! Do you maybe recognize the faces on the left and right?

Alright, lets start at the beginning. Last summer while having a glorious dinner, by ourselves, in Ocean City, MD, Josh handed me an envelope with an itinerary for a future trip in December. He had booked a room in Atlantic City, NJ at a very posh casino, The Borgata. We would enjoy massages at the spa and dinner at the restaurant of my choice and then go to a show, all of this happening in one building! (The two men above being the stars of said show, any ideas?) We were at the end of one of the most amazing meals, looking out over the bay as the sun set and here he is setting up the next adventure...I love him!!!

When we get home I look over the website, we book hot stone massages at the spa and dinner for two at Bobby Flay's Steak House. I have been giddy with excitement for months about this trip. To make what could be a very long story short, the massages were amazing...I only wish we could have had more time to take advantage of the spa itself...dinner was everything I hoped it could be, and then some.

After dinner we went into the Music Box, found our seats and got ready for the show. We chit-chatted for a bit when Josh says, "I still know something about this trip you don't." Just a simple as that. I looked at him, "What in the world are you talking about?" He then pulled out of his back pocket two after-show back stage passes! All of a sudden I was nervous, excited, stunned, confused and happy all at once. The show that followed was great, they we're really funny, in ways I didn't expect (not personally being familiar with their comedy albums). More importantly they were amazingly hospitable back stage, even recording a quick intro for Josh's new band.

We made it home today after a long 7 and 1/2 hour drive, happy to have had a great time and an outstanding family to pull together to allow us to go. Now I ask the big question. Are you still floundering around in your memories (or google), or do you know who my "mystery men" are? If you click on all of the links you might get a little help. I don't have a prize but I'd love to see who figures it out first! (Thanks for the competition idea Kate...even though I had no hope at your's.)

One stripe at a time

2008-12-08T19:06:00.004-05:00

Summer is way behind us(almost hard to remember) and the days of frigid temperatures are upon us, forcing us to find some indoor activities. After months of waiting for the end of soccer and football, Colton's greatest wish came true. He is now a student of Lake Placid Martial Arts Academy, studying Okinawan Shorin Ryu Karate. That sounds amazingly serious, and in some respects it is. The kids class is for 5-12 year olds and is very life skills oriented. Each night seems to carry a theme such as, looking a person in the eye when they are talking to you or helping out around the house without being asked. Two weeks ago Colton was surprised to be presented with the first stripe on his belt. It was an inspiring moment, watching him shake his Sensei's hand and bow with bursting pride. After class the senior students all shook his hand and congratulated him. He looked ten-feet tall as he walked over to me and Lennon, and was at a loss of words to explain what had happened. It was all he talked about for days. I think he really likes it!!

Lists of lists

2008-12-03T08:42:00.004-05:00

My list of "things to do," which actually includes making further lists, is long and tedious this moring. I have justified this post with the fact that the kids bedding is in the washing machine, therefore I am doing something on the list, right?! I suppose I am only accountable to myself.

We had a glorious Thanksgiving weekend complete with sledding, lots of family and lots of turkey. We forgot our camera on our annual sledding adventure with Mom and Chris (maybe Mom will email me a few highlights to post), it was a blast as usual. We did get a few shots of us around the house, Tim took over our camera...but forgot to turn it on himself!

Red cheeks from sliding!

One "Great"Grandma!

My little princess.
A little background music...

On Thanksgiving day I found myself in my kitchen, carving my turkey, stuffing in the oven, gravy bubbling on the stove, at 10:30am. Josh ventured off to Peru for a Turkey Trot 5K and I packed up my goodies and my kiddies and met him in Malone. Everyone brought something and Grandma didn't have to do a thing! It was wonderful. The gang was great and the kids had a lot of fun playing with their "cousins."

Enough procrastination...off to tackle the list. Happy Holidays!

Floodwood Mountain...or bust

2008-11-16T09:10:00.005-05:00

Mom took last Monday off from work (enjoying a four day weekend) and the kids and I met up with her for a "hike." We packed sandwiches, water, tea and a few snickers bars (good idea Mom) and set of for Floodwood Mt. As soon as we parked the car, both kids were hungry...not a good omen. Mamee came to the rescue with her snickers bars and we started walking. You can't drive to the trail head and so we had to walk a good distance in before hitting the trail. Bailey ran circles around us, sniffing every twig in sight. Colton talked, and talked, and talked to Mamee. And Lennon, her little legs weighted down with big boots did her best to keep up. Finally we reached the trail head, Lennon insisting on helping and adding to her load...

We started up the trail, snow specked and muddy, all of us hungry now. Talking about food and leaping on slippery rocks to keep out of the mud we keep pushing forward, in hopes of actually getting to the hiking part. Then we heard the sound that turns any wise hiker around. Gunshots. Damn hunters...or maybe not. We walked back out to the trail head and stopped for lunch. The tea that Mom had packed refused to be let out of the thermos, no matter how hard we tried.

Lennon had lost any interest in walking and I gave Colton the pack so she could ride on my back, her snowsuit and my vest violently repelling each other giving me a great workout trying to keep her from falling off. In the end we made it back to Mom's for hot tea (we did get the thermos open...it wasn't warm) and hot coco. Another great family adventure on the books.

Mt. Baker on a sunny November day.

2008-11-12T14:51:00.002-05:00

It was a little tricky navagating down the mountain (it feels funny to call it a mountain)today and took me a bit longer than I thought it would. The trail was full of mud and ice, but the air was refreshing and cold. When the weather turns cold and wet I just can't wait for the snow, it's so much easier to navigate than mud. My goal is to pull out the snowshoes I got for Christmas last year and hike at least twice a week this winter...maybe.

My sweet Colton

2008-11-07T14:31:00.003-05:00

Mornings around here are somewhat of a chore and I am usually exhausted by 8:30 and ready for a nap. Today was a little different because we were headed for the award breakfast at Bloomingdale Elementary. (I bet you are all jealous...I got to eat school food, ha, ha, gag!) We are so proud of him! His teacher, Mrs. Munn (aka Kara Pandolf) gave him this certificate and glowing comments. Colton has been searching for a little time without Lennon recently and we have dedicated Friday night to be his night with Mom and Dad. So far we have played a few games of Sorry and Clue Jr. and created a "Monopoly Monster." I have never had so much fun, watching him try and trade Water Works and Electric Company for Josh's Boardwalk and Park Place...he was so serious. Now, every night he stays awake in his room for a little quite time after I read. I never know what I will find when I check on him. Sometimes he is in bed, lights on, glasses on, book on his chest. Other times there in a pile of papers on his desk covered in either drawings of monsters or math (the kid loves to add long numbers). One night last week this is what I found:
Lyrics to a new song. I just love watching him grow. He puts a smile on my face everyday!!

Halloween

2008-11-02T12:01:00.005-05:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Super Girl had a great time "flying" around town and protecting me from the villains on the loose.
Lucky for me my "Hulk" was friendly!
We went out on Halloween and therefore had to dress up. Josh has been playing with a new band, Professor Chaos, and stepped up for 8 songs that night. It was nice to not have him on stage all night. We didn't get any pictures earlier in the night so my hair is flat and Josh's "wound" fell off, but you get the point.

Snowday in October!

2008-10-29T07:44:00.005-04:00

In my very humble opinion, our school district is growing soft. Yes, the kids are home today...grumble, grumble. At first they we're both highly disappointed, then they saw the snow. At 6:45 I donned my snow pants, hat, scarf, gloves, and coat to shovel the walkway and start the car for Josh. I had been out only a few minutes when the front door opened and all of the disappointment disappeared.
Being the mean mother that I am, I made them eat breakfast and wait for the sun to come up before letting them out into their winter wonderland. It is relatively warm out this morning, mid twenties, they should be out for a while. Bailey bravely played with them for bit before deciding the couch was much warmer. I hope he's ready for winter in the Adirondacks.

October in the Adirondacks

2008-10-28T17:45:00.004-04:00

The kids are elated and I am praying they don't have a snow day tomorrow.

Lets see just how accurate the weather forecasters are.

I took this picture at 5 PM. I hope to get another before bed and again in the morning. We could see 10 inches by morning...Happy Halloween!!

My kitchen, My life

2008-10-20T08:41:00.004-04:00

I love to cook.

But why? Sometimes cooking can be the most mundane, frustrating, paint-by-numbers part of my day. Pull out the skillet, a couple of pork chops, broccoli and some pasta...wala! Dinner. Usually this happens when life just runs away with me and I am caught up in it. When the need to feed my family something, anything nutritious, gets tangled up in the swirling cloud of never ending "things to do" and the creativity and fun is sucked completely out of it.

And then when life has been completely flipped upside down and I'm in the middle of turmoil and strife; I head for the kitchen. There must be something there that centers me, grounds me, keeps me focused. I spent much of my afternoon in the kitchen yesterday, baking banana muffins (I don't even like them...so its not eating due to stress) and working at dinner. I chose to make a dinner that took time, even thought.

This struck me as odd when I was out for a walk with Bailey and dinner was bubbling away in the dutch oven. It was like I was putting everything I've got into that meal, feeding it to my family as a way of insulating them. Holding them close and keeping them safe from all the hurt pressing down on us.

My kitchen has always been a hub for me, the kids paperwork scattered about, Josh's pile of electronics, my datebook lurking in the corner, a few plants, food. The center of this and many other households. Now, as I look over my shoulder I see a little more, a place of clarity, of truth, a place where I can find solace in the face of adversity and hopefully pass a little on to those who mean the most to me, my family and friends.

Walk to Moose Pond

2008-10-13T08:29:00.002-04:00

We enjoyed a great walk into Moose Pond on Saturday. We have been enjoying a bit of Indian Summer and you won't find us inside much.

Nature in Bloomingdale

2008-10-06T16:11:00.002-04:00

I was taking Bailey for a walk yesterday afternoon and a car came up slowly with its window down. I started thinking of the best way to Lake Placid, Whiteface, Canton...all the usual requests. I was pleasantly surprised when they informed me that just ahead there was a bald eagle perching in a tree. They turned around and pulled up to look at it for a while. I stood and enjoyed it's beauty. After a bit Bailey and I continued on our way and I was happy to see it still there on our way back. When I got home I grabbed the kids, Josh grabbed the camera and we walked up to see it. The kids were in awe at it's size and had a great time whispering and looking.

Apples Anyone?

2008-10-05T09:43:00.002-04:00

Lennon had a great time on her first field trip, picking apples at Harts Orchard in Peru. Daddy loaded the trunk with enough apples to get us through winter!

Freshly washed and rejuvenated

2008-09-29T15:55:00.007-04:00

I didn't want to hike today, it was a long weekend and I was feeling very rundown and sluggish this morning. Outside was damp and cloudy (despite the forecast of mostly sunny) and a great day to stay in and veg. At 11:oo it was now or never. Bailey was peering at me in anticipation urging me with those big eyes to pull myself together. He was ecstatic when I grabbed my sneakers and headed for the door. I am very happy I went, the woods smelled freshly washed and the cloudy sky made the array of fall colors pop. I brought the camera hoping to get a great shot. I'm afraid I didn't "capture" the moment, but these should give some idea to the beauty of the day. (I did feel much better once I got moving.)

My time

2008-09-23T20:27:00.004-04:00

I feel like I have been told that from now on I must walk on my hands. The pace of my life has altered so abruptly that it is taking me some time to adjust. It is not as if I didn't know it was coming, I got the letter over the summer..."Beginning Sept. 3, 2008, you're life will flip upside down, your daughter will get on the bus and your life will never be the same. Get your gloves on." Okay, maybe it wasn't so contrived as that but it is how I felt.

Three weeks ago yesterday, I was home alone...for the first time in 7 and a half years. There have been other moments, but just brief moments nothing lasting or recurring until that fated day. I have to admit that I did not cry, Lennon made me so proud and she was so ready. When she heard the bus coming down the road she ran and hugged me tight, kissed be quick, and yelled to Colton, "I wanna get on first!!!" Before I had a chance to feel sad, she took off, down the steps and ran up those enormous bus steps (twice the size of her)...and never looked back.

As I walked back into the house I was overcome by quiet, no TV, no computer humming, no footsteps, no yammering endless descriptions of the smushed bug on the sidewalk, no "guess what!?", no arguing...nothing, just silence. It was creepy! And I had to escape. I did a poor job picking up, stuffed a few things in my pack, grabbed Bailey and drove the the base of Mt. Baker.

I enjoyed a glorious morning up there. I sat on the south face, not overlooking town (and my daughter at school) and took in the view. I'm not sure when I last sat at the top of a mountain and didn't worry someone was going to fall off. Words could never explain what my children and husband mean to me, but I do think that it had to be a Mother who came up with the concept of school. I envision a group of cavewomen huddled around a fire, surrounded by screaming children running around naked and dirty, trying desperately to talk to each other over the excessive noise and dust. One of those Mother's decided to send the kids off to "learn" (a.k.a give me peace and quiet, and a bit of my own identity back).

After the wettest summer I can ever remember, we have stumbled into the most quintessential fall weather. (Thus explaining my absence from the blogging world...not that I don't check other peoples, I just don't have time to do much more that post a picture on my own.) I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. At least two mornings a week I climb Baker and enjoy a little respite, climb down and get Lennon from school. I have finally been able to spend time with my Grandma, hiking into Moose Pond or walking behind her house and enjoying a cup of tea...it's amazing having her here!

My household projects still loom ahead of me, but I know the days of fall are short and soon the rains and snow will come and I'll have plenty of time to clean out the cabinets and rearrange the entryway. Mt. Baker, here I come!!!

Mysterious phone calls

2008-09-18T21:05:00.004-04:00

I received a phone call at work today, which is not unusual in its own right. The caller and the caller's location where. My little daughter climbed, under her own power, Mt Baker today with Josh and Bailey after school. When she reached the top she called me from Josh's new toy...his new beloved Blackberry (how high tech of us Adirondacker's, huh). Then they took a picture of themselves and emailed it to me...from the top of the mountain!! I do realize that most people are much more tech savey than me and this probably happens all the time, but I was a bit beside myself.

Post Script: to prove that the picture of Lennon napping after school was not staged, Josh brought home some further documentation (with much better scenery than mine).

My fingers are getting cold...I need to go sit by the gas fireplace. I refuse to turn on the furnace and it is supposed to be 20 degrees tonight...please pray for my pumpkins!!!

The big carry

2008-09-15T16:08:00.002-04:00

After much patience Colton finally got his shot at carrying the ball last Sunday. He didn't make it very far, but the smile on his face was to die for.

I hope to elaborate soon on my new found freedom. I haven't really had all that much "free" time and I have to admit I have been a little greedy with it. I'll share soon, I promise.

Oh, so tired

2008-09-15T16:02:00.002-04:00

A long morning at school leads to the best sleep ever...

School days are here!!

2008-09-05T08:12:00.002-04:00