Monday, December 22, 2008

Please vote for Pepe, he deserves it after having to stomp through all this snow!

http://www.conklyns.com/contests/HOLIDAY_FUN_PHOTO_CONTEST/photos/index.cfm?entID=31



Click on title to vote for Pepe, or copy and paste the web address above for our tiny little Chihuahua who has had a round time this past week due to the few feet of snow we got! We have been getting more and more and have to shovel even more snow and make up some socks for his tender little feet that seem to freeze within a few minutes.

Molly just goes at it, burying her nose in the snow sniffing all the deer smells who come to eat all the bird seed! We are going to try and get more pictures before it all leaves us, it is so beautiful.
But, for the time being...please vote for Pepe, he definitly deserves the trouble he has had to go through!

VHS to DVD 3.0, Found a Deal!

No, did not win!
Darn it! It is a must have for us and wanted to share an even better price I found for it!

I found a better deal on this great software at Costco!! At least $20 less, plus no shipping and handling since they have it in the store.

This has got to be a great gift for those Mom's and Dad's that have tons and tons of VHS tapes (Yep, we are in that group of people!) And want to preserve them.

Papa wanted to watch them yesterday, but, the last time we watched them we could tell that they were getting worn. We really need to transfer them before they bite the dust!

A great gift if you don't know what to get for the parents, or yourselfs!

Merry Christmas!

Thursday, December 11, 2008

20+ years of Memories on Tapes we need to save, Hopefully with help from "Mom Most Traveled" before they are to old to save!



Mom Most Traveled is one of my favorite blogs I subscribe too. If you click on her blog it will take you to a contest I am sure most of you would want to participate in!!

She is giving away a VHS to DVD Deluxe 3.0.!! This nifty little gadget converts VHS, BETA and other analog video to DVD’s through your PC! HOW COOL IS THIS? Visit her site, by clicking VHS to DVD Deluxe 3.0 and there is tons of info she has there for you including links.

Mom Most Traveled Blog has all kinds of info about the software and a link to a YouTube Video’s that also include pretty much all 5 star ratings. Also, visit Honest Tech to not only view the product, that is well priced….Papa…but, also you can see other great products such as Easy Video Editor which would be a great thing to have since I have been trying to edit videos, and ummm…they just are not turning out like I want…in fact they turn out horrible! So, this would be another great gift or addition, especially if you are like me who tries hard to create great videos and fail miserably! One FABULOUS thing, which I am taking advantage of is that it has a FREE TRIAL! HELLO…FREE, I am so there.

If you are anything like us, you have drawers packed with VHS tapes with every Christmas, birthday, sports event, plays and vacations throughout the years. We have TONS! We keep saying we need to transfer them, but, do we get it done? One of those easily forgotten things to do, and then costly, so it is the last thing we think of doing since there are sooo many!!

Don’t worry kiddo’s, we erased all the spy shots I took!

I have to have one, I REALLY want to win one, since I know it will be a long time before we could buy the gadget.

During the holidays, it is one of our favorite things to do, spend hours and hours watching the kids from when they were babies to when they finally flew the nest. Even Sarah’s marriage and Mason’s winning and setting records in his State competitions. We even recorded the WHOLE play Leah starred in as “Scout” in “To Kill a Mockingbird”.
We have so much fun, but, we can tell the tapes are getting worn out and have been limiting ourselves to watching them too much and keep saying we need to transfer. Hopefully the time is here!

That is it…gotta have one! If I don’t win, I want one for Christmas. It would probably be cheaper to buy then having someone do it for us.

One of you could win one too…just click here SAVE THE MEMORIES and you just might win one from CanCan at the Mom Most Traveled site. If you do…can I borrow??
So go, win, And if I win, I promise you can borrow it from us to!

Thanks Guys…and hopefully you will be seeing some cool video’s soon that I will create from our old VHS tapes!

Saturday, December 6, 2008

MythBuster Beauty, I was a winner!



I Won the Natures Minerals Giveaway from Mythbuster's Beauty!



I won a set of Natures minerals from the Body shop that included Mineral Foundation, Cheek color and Golden eye Color.



Having a drawer full of Mineral Makeup jars, even a sak full of samples I ordered right before I won, I can say, that drawer is empty, except for the 3 Jars of Natures Minerals.



I have been wearing it daily to see how it stacked up to all the others and can say, it passed the oil and sweat test with flying colors! I even learned about foiling on Jen's Mythbuster site when applying the sheer Olive wash eyecolor that has micro-glitter highlites, and it worked to perfection! I am not the glitter type gal, a little too mature for this, but, this is perfect for me and looks fabulous. If you do the foil technique, the glitter stays and does not go flying all over your cheeks! The color is beautiful, and I did not have to apply more after sweating a couple gallons the other day. When I went to check in the mirror, I patted off all the sweat and the makeup still looked like perfection! Oh, and did I mention the foundation has a SPF of 25? That makes it even better!



I was real pleased with the selection of colors, especially for my ever so pale skin. They had a beautiful cheek color that was not that deep, dark red clay color that most companies carry only one of. The one I picked was one that was just a kiss of color that made me look like I was not so washed out, or like a clown with the darker colors!



Papa is wondering why I have been looking so good lately! It is all for him since I don't get out as much as I would like. He is very pleased, but, of course he tells me daily how beautiful I am and how much he loves me. Make up or not. Such a great guy! But, he has said he is impressed with the new make up and that I don't look as "pasty" like I did using the others.



So, I suggest you all check out Jen's site, because not only does she have wonderful beauty tips, but, she also has some great giveaways. 2 must haves for us women!



I can't find the blog link I got regarding the Foiling, but, when I do I will post it. Or, email me and I will be glad to tell you how to do it.



Have fun gals..I know you will love this site!








Friday, November 28, 2008

Mrs Deal Finder, Find great deals and enter to win a Wii!


Yippe, coupons and Deal galore! Call me the coupon and deal queen, and if you are like me...this is the site for you! So, head on over and "clip" those savings, then enter for a chance to win a Wii while you are there! Real simple since she organizes all the deals for you...so you don't spend hours searching! Thank you Mrs!
Click on the Wii, and you are on your way!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

The Dirty Shirt

Click on the title and you can enter for a chance to Win the Plugz from iFrogz, a leading developer of innovative accessories for the iPod and iPhone. While there check out her site and you will see she is a lot like all of us, super cool moms! She home schools her children while being a social networking butterfly. Well, probably better then me...shoot I could not even figure out how to add her or put her on my Technorati! Took me about an hour! LOL! That goes to show my networking skills are very much lacking!

But, also sign up for her Feed or email while there, lots of info you should not miss out on!

Then enter for Toxix, stereo headphones, from iFrogz.
Click the pictures!
Have fun and Lots of Luck to all!


Technorati Profile

Friday, November 21, 2008

Delayed Post on Mason, AND delayed HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

I do not know why a post that was written back in June was just now emailed out. I will chalk it up to technical difficulities!
He just celebrated his 19th birthday, right after my 47th and actually lived through it! We all know when they are far from home the will do things they otherwise woul not do! But, he is a good kid and has goals he is determined to reached. I am glad he has the discipline to go after what he wants
.
But, Mason is doing very well and is making the grades to be on the Honor Roll if he keeps it up for the next month! Even the class he thought he might fail he is doing really well in! We sent him a little care package for the Holiday and he was tickled, but, I hope he takes it easy since it is nothing but sweets!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIG GUY!!
Now, go study!

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Mommy Most Traveled, Tea Party and Giveaway!

Click the link below and enter to win! Lots of prizes listed on the page besides the hoodie, so lets see how many you can find and enter! Oh, what fun it is!
The Tea Party Week fun continues at Mom Most Traveled! Enter here'>http://www.MomMostTraveled.com/bamboosahoodi">here for your chance to win a Barely Bamboo hoodie from Bamboosa!

Monday, November 17, 2008

My Wooden Spoon Giveaway - More fabulous prizes!

Again, this wonderful lady is having another super fabulous giveaway, where you get to choose from 3 all time favorite kitchen appliances that I am sure you all would just love to have....I know I would! Click the title above to get to her giveaway site. Or click Here.

Pick from a
Kitchenaid Immersion Blender, a Cuisinart Food Processor, or a Kitchenaid Stand Mixer!

She has five...yes 5...ways you can enter for a chance to win! And it is real easy to do...and definitely worth it. I don't know about you but, I have been wanting a Kitchenaid Stand Mixer since I became a mom! We won't say how long ago that was!

So, what are you waiting for? Get over there and get in the action!

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Silver Treats Giveaway!

If you are like me, you are in love with silver! So, you have got to check out this site and enter to have a chance to win one of many sets of jewelry! Click on the title above to get to thier site and enter and then look around at all the wonderful and beautiful pieces to choose from.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Katydid and Kid, Does it again with another fab giveaway from Sorrelli Jewelry!

Click on the title above to see some gorgeous, unique, one of a kind pieces of jewelry you will flip over! My huge weakness, that I try so hard to resist, but, this one has hold of me in an grip so tight, poor Papa will never be able to pry me away!

So visit and enter and maybe you will win a gorgeous pair of earings from their Raisen Glaze Collection! And while you are there, visit Sorrelli to see some jewelry you have never seen before!

Once again, Thanks to Kathleen for a fabulous giveaway!

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Got to Make this easy, and oh, so good cassorole, Click here to vote and then Win!

Ok, I had to try her, Shrimp Stroganoff Casserole, it was so easy and had all our favorite things! Especially shrimp and broccoli. We also tried the Queso Chicken Black Bean & Rice Casserole cause it had all Papa's favorite things, but, he was not impressed. The others, with my disability..and the more ingredients, and more work, we were not wanting to try. I have to say that this gals recipe was the best for us and our tastes and need for ease!
So, if you find you like it too, Cast your vote then post on her blog for the
While visiting her site, My Wooden Spoon you have to check out her other great and easy recipe's, One being the Bacon Brunch Bites...going to have to try those for Thanksgiving, Christmas..OH, AND SUPERBOWL!
Have fun, and good luck!
Click on the blue links or Title to access the contest
HURRY, End November 9th!



Reed & Barton Stainless Steel 103pc. Flatware Set valued at $150.00. choose between two below different patterns. "If you’re not familiar with the quality of Reed & Barton, click on this link. Have you heard of the ice cream test? This is where they take a regular spoon from their collection and scoop out ice cream that is hard and prove to you, the quality & stamina of the flatware. No bending or anything. It’s solid and will last you a lifetime!"





Sunday, November 2, 2008

Time Trials at ASU for Mason, with wings on his feet he is flying and making good time!

Mason had his first time trials for track at ASU this week for the 800m.

Remember that he had won and set a record at The State Champion Ship, but, running it in 1.52.46. And he dd this on a leg with a stress fracture!
Well, he called to let us know that his first timed trial time was 1.49 something. Every second is difficult! I think you need a 1.45 to qualify for the Olympicsk so he has his work cut out for him!
Congrats kiddo! Sending good vibes and asking the good Lord to put wings on your shoes to help you fly!
Oops, Mistake...to qualify for Olympic trials, you need a 1.47! There are points in there and on Mason's time...just can never remember.
Go Mason!

I won! Thanks to Katydid and Kid!

Thanks so much to Kathleen and Jonathan's Wild Cherry Spoons!

We have Four Stores and Galleries here in Bellingham where we can purchase his items...and they are some of my favorite places to go while in the Fairhaven area. One is "Artwood"
But, click on the picture or the Blue link, and you will find all kinds of wonderful works of art, disguised as kitchen utensils. The prices are very affordable, much more then what they are selling for in Fairhaven. Anyone that knows Fairhaven, knows it is like the Beverly Hills of Bellingham.
Thanks again to Katydid and Kid for the win!

Friday, October 24, 2008

KATYDID AND KID

Ends Novermber 1st, so hurry and enter!
Win a Lazy Spoon from Jonathans Spoons!
A favorite of Rachel Ray and sold here in Bellingham at Chuckanut Gallery and ArtWood in Fairhaven. If you like fine wood art and functionality, you will sure love these.
Visit the website by clicking on the title above or the button below and enter to win! To beautiful, unique and functional to pass up!
button2

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Win and Give at the same time!

Click on the banner to enter and explore..I found some great things while cruising around!

is giving away an adorable Mrs. Goodbee Dollhouse and also donating another to Primary Children’s Medical Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. How wonderful is this?

The Caring Corners Mrs. Goodbee Dollhouse is the only dollhouse that comes to life and encourages caring, sharing and preparing as your child plays! It has 12 big rooms; 400+ activities, songs, words and sounds; it helps children learn social and emotional skills through imaginary play and real-life experiences; and it is a 2008 Outstanding Product Winner! To see this dollhouse in action, please visit this Caring Corners link.
So, go and enter today for the babes and for the Angels in Utah!

Monday, October 6, 2008

It just isn't hap-nin

I am so frustrated with how slow things are going. I know I should not expect much but, I am completely burnt out, and have been since moving.

I only wish I can get some of the things done that I need to do, without going down for another week. I have been trying for a week to do things and failed. I even had to cancel a date that Papa had planned for us last night. I went out for a couple hours and bam...down. I think it is some kind of cold the past week. Just after a couple hours of going to the store, left me hardly able to hold my head up and wanting to loose my cookie!

Anyway. We are so happy here and I have so much I want to do and can't wait to show everyone when it is done. But, I need to recover. I need all the prayers and positive vibes I can get to get back to my normal or at least half of my normal self so I can fix up our house like we want. AND keep it clean! Everyday, dirty or clean, we always say "I love this house!" We really are happy here. I am just sick of being unable to get my body to do what it is suppose to do!

Until I get better, I have something to look forward too. Usually when I want something I usually can get it done. It is different, how my heart, spirit and brain want my body to do things and it just won't cooperate. I was always a fighter, but, these days have been rough. I am going to chalk it up to over doing it in the move, and hope in the next month or so...I will be much better. This week, I think I have had some kind of cold, at least that is what it feels like, a bad one! Probably why I am so angry at not being able to do anything.

For now, I wait and plan for the days I can put my creative juices to work, and get our house looking like the pictures in the magizines, and actually have visitors!! Plus, well, I don't have to get into how much fun Papa and I can have when we don't have to worry about fixing, putting away things, cleaning and concentrate on having fun! I liked our last date when we came home with more money then what we left with!

So, if anyone wants to visit me, pray for me to get my butt in gear and get it done!! Right now, I am really getting inpatient and resorting to begging for prayers!

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

24 Handbags in 24 Hours Sweepstakes! Sign up and Win!

Enter once before October 15th and you could win!, There are also other ways to get more entries such as refering friends, like my girlfriend did for me! So, if you are a purse addict, this is a contest for you!.

Monday, September 29, 2008

Check out my FOR SALE list on my side bar for Craigs List







I also will be posting more things as I go. We have A LOT of things to get rid of so we can make room in the new house. Everything is negotiable, so be sure to email me at CUsmile@comcast.net if you have questions. Here are some pictures of some of the things for sale.....Be sure to click the items on the side bar under "Craigs List"

Friday, September 12, 2008

Mason's ASU Profile






Click above to see the profile they posted on Mason at ASU.


Pretty cool!
He also was in the local newspaper again now that they are starting the Cross Country season.
Have not heard from him in a while. Ok..few days! It is hard not to know what he is doing daily and to poke our nose into everything he is doing and what time! Hard to let go for both of us. Though it is nice to have the house and cars all to ourselves, and much less laundry to do, dishes to clean, meals to make and tons more groceries to buy! We miss him very much, just like we do Sarah and Michael. The distance is what is so hard. You can't just drive even a few hours to see them.

Sarah and Michael won a beautiful diamond heart necklace worth 900 dollars this past week! Needless to say, I have been sending Michael lots of contests to enter. I remember my first big win was a diamond heart necklace, but, it was only worth a couple hundred. But, it took years of entering to win just that! Hopefully Michael will have better luck, that is if he catches the bug and enters the contests regularly.

I still have to plan our trip to see them with the Amtrak win I got. It is a long trip,but, will be so cool if we pick the best scenic routes. I received the picnic basket and blanket already, they are too cool! Not cheap at all! Dishes, cups and silverware for two and enough room for LOTS of food and the blanket. Click on the pictures to view larger images
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I am recovering a little bit from all the work we have been doing with the house. I guess it catches up with you sooner or later, and I would rather recover then keep taking drugs to keep going. Plus I want to be spending time with Papa while he is home, then being burnt out on the couch!


Hopefully we will get the rest of the stuff out of storage and get some fall planting and preperations done. We have much to much stuff and need to really have a sale very soon. For all my good friends I will list some things here or tell you when I list stuff for sale.

We are going to have a washer and dryer set, very nice set, then a very nice laundry center that is a rolling cart with 3 seperate bags and a pole you could raise or lower to hang clothes. Here is a picture. I love it, but, have no where to keep it anymore. Besides, I don't have half the laundry I have to do anymore!

Sleeper Sofa, Chairs, Blue Willow Dishes and a lot of decor. I will start taking pictures here very soon. We have no room for it all! Plus, I just don't want a whole lot of clutter. You just have to clean it!
I want to send out a special thanks to my good Friend Kathy and her Mom. More for Kathy though since she does all the work. She has been clearing her moms land and bringing us perfectly sized wood for our fireplace and she even picked me up a huge bag of pine cones. Not only do I use them in crafts, but, they are perfect fire starters. If you have never tried them, you should. They work perfectly! Thank you so much, Kathy. You have done so much more also I want to thank you for. I know I am now 4 miles more away from you, but, I hope we can still get together the rare times we are able too!
Well, time for more rest and something to eat. I will post again soon!



Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Oh, so sore! But,oh,so happy!

Boy, moving has taken its toll and I cannot stress enough how happy we are to have bought this home instead of the one we were living in. The pain and agony was worth knowing that we ended up with a much better home, at a significant savings (almost 30K)

And also include having instant equity since we got it for a steal and even got them to reside the whole house at no cost to us. Even added more to the homes value.

Even when you see the pictures of both homes, knowing that the older home was being sold to us for 235K and the other at 200K, and them being only 4.5 miles apart, we got the better end of the deal.


The only thing was moving. Moving 3 times in as many years has really taken a toll. I am so happy to know that we have finally been able to get the financing done, and not be in another lease option with some not so honest or truthful folks I am VERY certain my happiness will aid in my quick recovery.
I look forward to doing up a landscaping plan and finding the deer resistant plants to put in the gardens so they grow and look fabulous without worry of the deer coming in and destroying them. We have deer EVERYWHERE here.

The pictures of the inside of the house show all the stuff we still have in boxes. I will take more when we get it all put away and cleaned up. I was able to find the sheer curtains at a Garage sale for 4 dollars! But, Papa and I want to come up with some plans on how we want to remodel and decorate. Gone are the days of buying to make due! Now we would like to have it how we both want it to look and feel. I can't wait to make my own curtains and decorating.

The first pictures are of the house we originally tried to purchase, The second set is of the new house I found by chance, on a site I never look at, and was able to get the sellers to accept even though they had 2 other deals on the table. Talk about the Lord always being there at the right time. I think that is why we had to go through what we went through the last 4 years..if we hadn't gone through what we did, we would never have been able to purchase the best home I have every lived in..ON ONE FLOOR!
Someone is always looking out for us and you will see how we really lucked out this time. We went through a LOT to get here. We are not going anywhere for a very long time.

We will be looking through a lot of decorating magizines to try and find how we want to decorate the rooms. First we have to save, get the fence and a few other priorities done. But, If anyone has any magazines with decorated rooms in them to look at, send them our way!

Saturday, August 30, 2008

How scary is that?

Well, Mason's first couple of weeks at ASU have gone well. He had fun at camps and enjoyed his classes and teachers. I think he misses us since he calls a LOT. But, it could be he just wants us to send him more things. Which we did just the other day. Cost a pretty penny for 3 big boxes!


We sent more sheets and blankets, his stereo, guitar for his game and I snuck in a few little surprises like some of his favorite cookies, SnickerDoodles, and a couple other things.


He had his check up with the sports doctor at ASU. Remember me telling you all that he was playing on a bad leg that showed a pending possible fracture on MRI while he was in the beginning of his track season at Sehome?


Well, it did fracture! Then continued to run in districts and state. He was so lucky it was not worse, he could have have a pin placed. How scary is this? But, the new MRI showed the fracture has healed and he is in good shape for the Cross Country season. I hope that he does not have any further problems with it! Imagine how well he did on the bad leg, breaking records and winning state. Now imagine how much better he will do since it has healed! Go Mase!


We are completely moved into the new house. I still have pictures to take but, have been almost bed ridden because of my legs giving out. But, soon, real soon I will take some pictures to post for you all to see. We just love it so much and are so blessed to have gotten it. It was almost a miracle in how we found it and was able to negotiate it. Now comes decorating and doing some remodeling, gardening, etc. Things I love to do and hope my body lets me! So far it is save, save, save, so we can do what we want to decorate and put in a fence the way we want. Time to start selling some things, garage sales and selling some crafts. Who says I am not resourceful?


I am resting up now and will post pictures and such the next time! Here is the front of the house that was taken before we moved in.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Dreams come true and Prayers are answered.



It was the 11th hour and 59th minute! Papa and Mason had to get in a couple more bits of information to the NCAA to hopefully get them to approve Mason’s scholarship to ASU and participate in Running track. Something he has been working so hard and done so well in. He even worked hard on his grades to get on the Honor Roll this his last Semester!

We were prepared to wait, like they told us. We knew we would have to send Mason to ASU, and most likely have to pay to bring him home once the NCAA made their final decision if they determined that he did not meet their guidelines. But, it is something we are willing to risk, in fact, we were doing everything they asked us to do to try and get his clearance, and more but the NCAA was being obstinate. We had a prayer chain going from all over the world so that the Good Lord would help the NCAA see that Mason was worthy of the chance.

And it worked. Papa and I cannot stop crying because there are no words to express how happy this makes us! For our son to have this chance means everything to us and Mason is so happy to be getting what he has wanted and worked for the last couple of years! There are no words to express our gratitude to all that prayed, Suzanna from the ASU compliance office and Julie from Sehome who worked diligently to get all the paper work from the school and to the NCAA so that they would make the right decision!

Our house closed on Thursday, so we have our new home and are moving, then Friday we got the email that Mason was all cleared for landing and attending ASU. Wow! We are truly blessed with all that has gone on. Just when we think all is lost…it is found once again! We are jumping, and crying with joy and we wanted to be sure to let all of you that have helped know how much we appreciate your help and prayers. Thank you from the bottom of our heart and soul!





I have never seen my son so happy, not to just be able to move out, but, to have the opportunity to do what he has wanted for years now, attend college and participate in sports. And he does so well and is so motivated to do even better by hopefully doing well enough to take it all the way to the Olympics.

Next, well, it will be trying to pay for all this. Getting my craft room together and making great art pieces to sell to support this venture. Then it will be keeping up with all of Mason’s accomplishments as a runner at ASU and hopefully maybe be reporting on his venture to the Olympics! Got to have a goal!

Monday, August 11, 2008

Catch up

How long has it been? Way too long.
I cannot tell you how busy and stressful it has been with the purchase of the new home and getting Mason to ASU. Little did we know the brick walls that were being built up each time we were trying to knock one down!
If it was not the NCAA refusing to give Mason clearance to attend ASU, it was having the appraiser not clearing the loan due to suspected rot around the chimney on the house.
Now, even though we have not broken through all the brick walls yet, it looks a little more promising for both.
We will be moving in, even if the house does not close which makes it less stressful and less costly then having to stay here and give notice, etc. And we will have Mason and Papa still here to get things moved since my arms have pretty much stopped working right from all the work I have done already, which is not much!
So, this week, we will be moving in! and a few days after, Mason will hopefully be off to ASU.
We don't know yet, if Mason will actually be attending ASU, since it is still up in the air on whether the NCAA will consider the classes he took as eligible. Sehome told him to take these other classes instead of the classes he originally signed up for, and told him they were NCAA eligible, but, in fact were not. The school put them on the list to be eligible by NCAA guidlines, but, it is not on the NCAA's list!, hence the fight to have them added, and in the meantime getting Mason a waiver to attend the University, untill the NCAA makes their final decision. Talk about taking it to the very end!
Mason might take off for school, then have to turn around and come home if the NCAA decides they will not accept his class credits. What makes it really a pisser is that Mason made the Honor Roll, on top of taking the bad advice from his own school, so he, through no fault of his own, might suffer a huge loss due to other peoples negligence. And of course, since we can't apply for financing until they clear him..we have to pay out of pocket for everything in order for him to get to ASU, while they are still deciding his fate.
How do you do this when you are a single income family, and trying to buy your retirement home at the same time? The house was suppose to close a month ago...and so we are down to the wire on this closing date too, we might have to extend this date out also! So, we will be moving in, thanks to the sellers, before we close so the men will not be gone when everything closes and we need their strength to move everything over in time.
Yes, we are hiring movers, but, we are doing all the small stuff. We also started early and have a lot of stuff in Storage already. It should go easy with having only to move minimal stuff and worry about the storage stuff later.
We are at the new house daily, and watching the new siding and chimney go up. We went yesterday hoping to tour around and not be a nuicense to the workers, knowing that they were not going to work on Sunday...but, they were there!! We were happy to see that they were there and trying to get it done, but, felt bad they saw us! Hope they don't think we are trying to pressure them...poor guys!
I am a lot calmer and not having panic attacks like I was. Never had panic attacks until this last month! They are wicked! The roads I take have never been easy, but, for some reason everything turns out they way it should. We just keep the prayers going and keep working as hard as we can.
I am sending every one that has been praying for us a huge hug and thank you for all your prayers. We have recovered from failure from the first sale, even though it was rough seas there for a while, the prayers got us what we needed and found us another, much better home! Even though it has been a very rocky road, it all seems to be turning out. I am sure it has been everyones faith and prayers and we really appreciate it!
Next time I post we will hopefully be settled into the new home and Mason will be at ASU! Keep the prayers going and hopefully I will be posting pictures of our new house!

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Mason's Picture in Paper....AGAIN...And the article is not even ABOUT him!

You can see Mason on the upper left hand side next the the Heading County Best.
If you click on the pictures, you will get a larger view.
But, it is not about him! It is about how how we have the best athletes in the County and the coaches that have worked hard to train these great kids to be the best.


This page shows the top athletes in their sports. We have to point out that he is the only athlete that is Number one in 2 sports, Track and Cross Country.






We thought is was funny, but, you can tell we are a bit...okay, hugely, narcissistic about it! But, since HS is over, I doubt we will be seeing his picture in the paper anymore. So, we had to get in our last hurrah! Gosh, we are so vain! Since the pictures are a bit hard to see…I am posting it below.


Now the challenge is getting him to ASU before practice starts!
















Monday, June 30, 2008

PREPS ALL-WHATCOM COUNTY PREPS: Boys’ athletes of the year finalists bios

Here is the picture they put in the Herald Paper, one of our favs!

Andrei Lintz, and Brady Bomber Both 3 sport athletes took 1st and second. But, they weren't picked for the best in their individual sports. Mason was the only one in his two sports, to be picked number one in both.

PREPS ALL-WHATCOM COUNTY PREPS: Boys’ athletes of the year finalists bios
MASON MCHENRY School: Sehome Year: Senior What he did: Won the Class 2A state championship in the 800- meter run and set a meet record with a winning time of 1:52.53 … Finished second in the 1,600 this year behind teammate Colin Flynn … Holds the 2A state meet record with the winning mark of 4:15.70 in 2007 … Led the Sehome boys to their second straight state championship … Finished seventh at the state cross country meet in 2007; the Mariners finished second behind Burlington-Edison … Will run at Arizona State University next year ... Was named The Bellingham Herald’s All-Whatcom County Runner of the Year in cross country and track and field. Coach’s quote: “Mason is the most gifted athlete I have ever worked with. In his two seasons of track, he has established himself as not only one of the greatest middle distance runners in the state of Washington but one of the top in the country. His accomplishments and talents on the track, along with his positive attitude and fun-loving personality, will leave an incredible legacy.” — Sehome track coach Jen Leita


Hard to believe that the Greater Bellingham Running Club denied Mason the award for the best runner in High School isn't it? I wrote to them and asked them why they awarded it to another athlete that had not half the acommplishments, but, have not yet gotten back to me to give me any reason's as to why he was not considered as the top runner in the County, much less the State.



The other athlete is a great kid and I congratulate him. I would never consider the award taken from him. He is a great kid. Not as talented, yes, but, a hard worker and who did his best and who Mason respects very much.



Now, with the NCAA taking so much time approving his transcripts and us getting the financing, we have no idea how we are going to afford getting him to ASU. Eash day it costs more and more money, which we cannot afford without me working. What a pickle. You get your son where he needs and wants to be, but cannot afford to send him. Talk about stress. Wish us luck, or if you want to help, you can hit the donate button.



I talked to the coach, who was at the Olympic Trials this week and finally found out when Mason has to be there. He needs to be there before the dorms open, so we will have to find a Hotel room for him also. No, I am not stressed at all! LOL! We ALL are.



We are very proud and hope he makes it to the Olympic Trials the next time. Looking at all the athletes he has a long way to go and lots of hard practice. Something he is good at. Wish us luck!

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Well that went fast!

Ok, it did not last long...I guess sinus infections don't like to to feel good for very long.
I got as far as taking Laundry out and now back to keeping head still and closing eyes as I type since it hurts to look at the screen.
To everyone out there with a sinus infection...I feel for you!!
Get better, Peace!

First night in 3 years!

I just slept like a rock for the first night in about 3 years.
I usually always get up at least twice a night from pain, get up, take some meds, then watch TV till I am able to fall asleep again.

Oh, how wonderful it feels to wake up and feel so refreshed! Even with a sinus infection headache I still feel I can conquer the day! Do I work outside, or in? Both? As long as I don't have to bend over I think I can do anything!
Sleep deprivation is so hard on a person's body causing all kinds of health problems. Heart disease, Diabetes, obesity, and on and on.
I have to remember what it was I did that helped me sleep so deeply...was it the mixed green salad with chicken breasts I had for dinner? It was soooo good! Papa made it with mescline greens, corn, raisens, onions, tomatos and sliced chicken breasts. It was so yummy!
I have heard that onions are helpful in being able to fall asleep quickly and deeply. Especially onions on a piece of whole grain bread. I am trying that again, sorry Papa, I will take a mint after, so my breath does not chase you away!

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Happy Fathers Day!



Time to wish Papa and all fathers out there a very Happy Fathers Day.


Mason is so proud and lucky to have Papa as his father. All the love, support and sacrifices he gave and made to help support Mason in bad and good times as well as keeping Mason focused on his goals. helped to make this boy a better man. Not a Baseball game or track meet did he ever miss and Papa always did what ever he could to make sure we could afford Mason being able to attend camps, travel out of town and state for games and races, and made sure he did everything he could to prepare Mason in his goals. He made sure Mason was involved in everything he could which helped Mason realize what his future was to be. And Mason made it to be the best at what he loves to do, and wants to do. Without Papa, Mason was able to get his scholarship at a top notch college. Everything he did, was to love and support his child so he knew he was loved and supported, and encouraged him to be the happiest and best he could be and wants to be. Mason will be leaving in a couple months, and I am sure this will leave Papa with a big void in his heart and life.Not having Mason around, a track meet to attend or homework to help him with, I am sure this will drive him crazy! His job of raising his son is over, and now the job of advising Mason in his adulthood begins. A new adventure as a Father begins.


Happy Fathers day!
Edit:
I also want to add that even though our girls are from other Dads, you have done and been everthing a dad would do and be to them just as you did your son. You adopted Leah when she was still in the womb and accepted Sarah on the first day. You are always doing things for them when the need it, even when they don't even ask. Leah has always known you to be her only Papa, forever. You showed all of us what a Papa and husband is suppose to be and hopefully they too, will have the type of relationship with their loved ones like we have and raise their kids to be ones they can be as proud of as we are of ours.

Friday, June 13, 2008

ALL-WHATCOM COUNTY BOYS' TRACK AND FIELD: McHenry ran to a record-setting finish



Click the link above to read the online Article
Photo By:
MARK MALIJAN of THE BELLINGHAM HERALD Click photo for larger view.

I will try and scan the inside of the paper where there are a couple more pics and the coaches comment. The favorite part for us was the coaches quote in the hard copy paper that I don’t have at the moment. Papa has to have it so he can look at it as he moves around the house! LOL!

EDIT TO ADD: Coaches quote: Mason is the most gifted athlete I ever worked with. He graduates Sehome with School records in the 400m, 800m, 1600m, and holds 2A state meet records in the 800m and 1600m. In his 2 season of track he has established himself as not only one of the greatest middle distance runners in the state of Wa but one of the top in the country. His accomplishments and talents on the track along with his positive attitude and fun loving personality, will leave an incredible legacy. Jen Leita.

This article makes it hard for me to believe that the running club here in Whatcom County that awards scholarships to the best runners, awarded it to someone we heard, has less accomplishments in running then other runners in the county, much less Mason. We know not all applied. But, you can read it in the papers, online forums, blogs, etc that Mason’s record beats out the other runners in the County in all classes. Not to mention in the State.

It is NOT the fault of the other runner, in fact the runner that received the award is a great kid and said some wonderful things about Mason on how he would use Mason as his rabbit to do as well as he did. (Read about this in the Bellingham Herald Paper about the State championships) In fact he credits Mason for his success. But, the statistics that show him to be the best high School runner in Whatcom County, are not there. But, he does not control the clubs decision on the awarding of the scholarship and I do not want anyone to think I would place any blame on this very talented and mature runner, that I would hold it against him or even have the award taken from him at all.

Was the club going on some other type of criteria besides running? Did they change their guidelines on the athlete’s eligibility this past year? IF so, was it posted on the application or other materials? Was there something that my son did not fill out on the application?

Our understanding, from what others have said and the awards given in the previous years, this award was given to the Runner based on their merit as a runner and who also applied for the scholarship.

I have to say I am embarrassed that we don’t have answers as to how this happened by now. Only a denial letter that was unsigned and gave no reason why he was not chosen. It is a slap in the face to not only our son, but, to us, a single income family with a disabled parent that struggles to afford to send their son off to get the best education and training he can with the little bit of resources we have or will have. Everyday I work with the little bit that I have and can do, to try and get my son what he needs and, because I am so proud, I want him to have what he wants, also. Unfortunately, I am to stay out of it for now, so I am not able to contact anyone. We have to wait till the men take care of it, if they decide too.

I hope to get answers very soon so that I can post them here and let you all know. I am sure you all are as curious as we are as to what happened. It is not that I am someone that is biased, or hysterical that my ‘precious, do no wrong, most gorgeous, fastest runner in the world should get everything, and how dare you pass my son up type of person.

I know all of you that have tracked Mason’s career in High School Track, and KNOWS his talent and stats and that it is a fact that he is the best middle distance runner in the state as well as Whatcom County. If I am wrong, let me know.

I am just the auditor mom making sure my son, or our family get what we deserve. Like I said, I struggle for every little bit I can to get him what he needs.

Right now I am proud of my son for his accomplishments and hope he continues to excel in everything he does.

I have nothing but respect for the runner that we heard received the award. If it is in fact this runner, I know him as selfless contributor and representative of his home town and not to mention a true sportsman and competitor. There is nothing negative that anyone could ever say about him. We would NEVER expect that the award be withdrawn from him and we wish him well and all the success in reaching his goals.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Bam, Mason makes the Honor Roll!!

Wish we had pictures of his graduation to post, but, we will have to wait...we also have video of course!

It is a great way to finish out his school years making honor roll! The only other time was when he was in the 6th grade! It has been a struggle for him with all he had on his plate with the many different activities he was involved in. From, chess, to bowling, to cub scouts, to baseball, to running, to the Cello and I am sure I am missing something!


He was great in everything he did. But, I remember when it came to having to much to do and it interferring with school and I had to say....stop! And he gave up a couple things and it seemed to help. Though I know the teams he was on really missed him and he missed participating. There IS a time when there IS too much.

I got to take a look at his Year Book yesterday. It is so big! His pictures all came out great and we ordered a parent page also that came out very nice. In fact, this year it seems all the Parent Pages were very nice, except for the one where the parents put a picture of their daughter who lookied like she was 3-4 on the TOILET! Actually looks like she was half in with just her head and lets sticking out. Who would do that? Post a picture of your kid on the toilet..how embarrassing! It is cute..but, different then that of a kid in the bathtub...in my humble opinion.



Papa made up the Parent page for him. I hope you can see it ok. Click on the picture and you can see the full size version. There was also a full page picture of him in the track team section and he was voted with another young man as "Most likely to date a freshman?! From reading all the notes it looks like he rescued a lot of freshman girls by giving them rides at all hours of the night when they were in delicate conditions. Oh, so that is where he was always going late at night!! He was the rescuer and liked by many people. Living in Bellingam all his life, he knows quite a few kids.

Well, look for the video and pictures of his graduation and don't forget, I listed a couple contests you can enter! Someone Has to win!

Kitchenaid Giveaway by Rock Star Hair Bows!


Click below and go to the Rock Star site, follow the directions to win! I have always wanted one of these and even found one for 40 dollars in excellent condition at a garage sale. But, Papa would not let me buy...he regrets it now! One of these days I will get one! Maybe one of you will win! Good luck! If you are having problems getting to the site: Click here to win!

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Win A Dyson!

Click on the Button in the Side Bar and enter to Win a New Dyson!

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Mariner Champs Poster From Bellingham Herald!


Thought you all would like to see a picture of the Whole Gang! Click on the picture and it should take you to a link of the poster size...if not, click here:

Bellingham Herald Poster

State Championship Videos

Mason gave it a good go for the 1600m race and came in second behind his teammate Colin Flynn. I have to admit I am so proud he was even able to run that long a race with his leg. Last year he was able to take first in the 1600m, to beat out the favored Isak Bergman, that is a good ending! So, I know he could have done it. But, he was able to take first place in the shorter 800m race the next day. So he is the State Champ this year in the 800m, and his school also won the State Championship also...GO MARINERS!

Thanks to Papa for editing the videos so they are not long and boring! I have yet to master this without obliterating the video!

Because of his leg, and with the ASU's advice, he won't be going to California for the Golden West Invitational. I am glad and I am sure going to graduation instead will be just as fun. Besides..we already bought the cap and gown! I am sure there will be some parties here and there. On Prom night he was the designated driver for a lot of kids which made me proud. He choose not to go...but, was there for his classmates and friends. I have a feeling he will be doing the same

Now we are on too ASU. This will be a great new adventure for him and I know he is looking forward to it. Mama and Papa too!

Enjoy the video's! There won't be any more, unless we travel to his events when he runs at the UofW!

Monday, June 2, 2008

ASU Men, Women Capture NCAA West Region Track & Field Crowns

Go Sundevils!
Sun Devils automatically qualified 14 women's entries and seven men's to national meet!
I think Mason did good on picking ASU to continue his running career and get a top notch education.
We will really enjoy our trips to watch him race, especially against the Huskies!

Monday, May 26, 2008

Mason wins 800m in State, setting, school, district and State records

Video to follow once we are able to get it downloaded.
Mason has been running on a bad leg and was not able to out run his team mate Colin Flynns last blast from behind! Though Mason Still holds the state record time for the 1600m, Colin really was able to pull it out and speed past everyone for the win. Wait till you see it on video. It gave Sehome 18 points by having Colin in first and Mason in second.

The 800m gave the 17 points by having Mason in first and Colin in third. Mason set the state 2A time, not to mention district and school records. All this on a bad leg.

We are hoping to post videos this week, they are very exciting! Papa worked hard fighting a HUGE crowd. Ma was able to attend the first day, but, had to baby sit the dogs on the really hot day in the car. So sad!

Oh, here are some links to the Bellingham Herald and Tacoma Tribune that posted some good pictures. This will tide you over till the videos come.

Mariners rule 2A boys’ track

McHenry ready to run at state meet

It was a hard trip for us, since we had to take our precious pets with us. The first day was cold and windy, so we were ok that day, but, the next day was way to hot and sunny to leave them in the car.

The other bummer was that, being handicapped, the stadium had the elevator shut down. The only way to get up to the top was to climb the stairs which was devastating to my legs which gave out and I almost pulled Papa backwards. There was a very kind man standing on the crowded stairs that caught me…but, it was enough to put me and my husband in danger.

I cannot believe that the school would schedule a maintenance time during a huge event as this and cause me injury and Papa to nearly fall backwards from me holding on to him.
By the time we left it was useable, but, I can’t help but think who the brain fart was that thought this up or did not recognize this would be essential to have during a huge event as this. Thanks, a lot…my legs are still recouping from this! Tahoma High School gets a Failing mark for that one!!

Ok, so everyone look for the video’s to come!

We are still deciding Golden West Invitational, with his leg being injured…we will ask the ASU coaches and see. Gosh…would love to see that!

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

800m District Finals May 2008

Sorry folks, I seem to be having problems with the 1600m video, I hope not this one also! Might be too long. I am checking into it. But, hopefully you will see the 800m and the controversial 4x400m videos with no problems. Email me or leave a comment if you are still having problems and I will continue to try!

Video's of the Finals in the 800m and 1600m.

Here is the finals for the 1600m at Districts at Cedarcrest High School. Mason’s time was 4:19.5 I think. Nathan Seely is on his back pretty much the whole race. Nathan always seems to ride Mason’s wind every race! If you watch most the video’s you will see this. Maybe this is why he fell in the 4x400, following to close? Mason set records for both the 1600m and 800m at Cedarcrest, but, they were only a year old and Mason was taking it easy because of his leg.