I know this is coming a little late to be helpful for your Christmas shopping, but we have to do some shopping all year, not just during the Holiday season. Please read the information below and consider helping out the Vance Middle School Junior Viking Band. Thanks!
Vance Middle School Junior Viking Band
Fund-Raiser Opportunity
Attention online shoppers!! The Vance Band is pleased to announce a new opportunity for our band to earn money.
You, your family, friends, neighbors that are online shoppers or will become online shoppers can take advantage of some great savings and discounts by shopping with our online service. Edvantage® allows you to shop and save money at over 1,400 on-line merchants such as Wal-Mart, Target, Best Buy, Expedia, Petco, Office Depot and Dell. These merchants, in return for your patronage, will return a percentage of your purchase back to our Band as a fundraiser. Each merchant also provides exclusive Edvantage® discounts and promotions from time to time which may include Free Shipping, Percentage off of Purchase and Free Products. The average Edvantage® Shopper can save hundreds of dollars per year, just by using the site once a month.
When you register for the site, you will see a list of businesses and services that are available. Unlike other fundraisers this valuable service is available to you for FREE and does not require you to purchase anything you would not normally have purchased. Registration is quick and easy. All purchases are confidential and secure. Our Band receives no information about your purchases. All we see is the amount of rebates generated by your participation in the program. Your privacy is totally protected.
Use the Alphabetical and Categorical lists, as well as, the Merchant Name and Keyword Search Features to navigate the site. Compare products and prices at multiple merchants.
Many programs will offer donations to our band by simply filling out registration forms for more information.
The band will be using the money earned from the fund-raiser to help offset costs of our spring trip and other operating expenses.
IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO RECEIVE POTENTIAL SPAM – YOU MAY WANT TO SET UP A SECONDARY EMAIL ACCOUNT FROM ONE OF THE FREE SERVICES SUCH AS YAHOO AND GMAIL.
To get started visit this website:
Vance Middle School Band Home on the Edvantage® Program
Registration is very quick and easy.
There is an video to watch about the program on the login page.
PLEASE SHARE THIS INFORMATION WITH AS MANY FRIENDS, FAMILY NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS AS YOU POSSIBLY CAN.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
2008 Christmas Parade
This past Saturday was the 2008 Bristol Virginia/Tennessee Christmas Parade. Although it was FREEZING cold out there, I went and waited for nearly an hour for the parade to start to ensure a good spot. I had to be able to see Sam as he marched by with the Vance Middle School band!
Here's me, shivering, as I waited for the parade to start:
Here are some other people waiting for the parade to start, also shivering. On the right side of the picture are policemen directing traffic flow, trying to get the street cleared for the parade.
A family came up and stood near me. Their little boys and their dog were too cute not to get a picture.
The parade started off with a car from the Bristol VA Police Department and one from the Bristol TN Police Department, driving side-by-side down State Street.
Vance Middle School Junior Viking Band:
The band, being led by the drum major:
The brass section ... Sam is in the second row. You can barely see him between the second and third kids from the right on the front row.
I left after the band went by....so, no more pictures of the parade.
Here's me, shivering, as I waited for the parade to start:
Here are some other people waiting for the parade to start, also shivering. On the right side of the picture are policemen directing traffic flow, trying to get the street cleared for the parade.
A family came up and stood near me. Their little boys and their dog were too cute not to get a picture.
The parade started off with a car from the Bristol VA Police Department and one from the Bristol TN Police Department, driving side-by-side down State Street.
Vance Middle School Junior Viking Band:
The band, being led by the drum major:
The brass section ... Sam is in the second row. You can barely see him between the second and third kids from the right on the front row.
I left after the band went by....so, no more pictures of the parade.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Sam's Birthday, Snow, etc.
I have been very neglectful. Sam's birthday was over two weeks ago, and I have not written about it (or anything else) yet. He is now 13 years old, and I am now officially OLD! Although his actual birthday (Nov 18) was rather non-eventful, he had a good friend spend the night the following Friday; and they had a blast with his gifts. He got exactly what he asked for: a huge Nerf machine gun and a fully automatic air soft gun. Sam has quite the Nerf and air soft arsenal now.
On Sam's birthday, we got this winter's first snow that stuck. (It snowed back in October but didn't stick.) This is what our house looked like that day.
A couple days later, it snowed even more. Here are some more pictures of snow:
This is our back deck on a snowy night.
This is looking out the front door at 6:40 a.m., while waiting for Sam's bus to arrive.
This is the view out the back door a little later in the morning.
This is on my way to work.
This is looking out the front door at Kintronic Laboratories, where I work.
On Sam's birthday, we got this winter's first snow that stuck. (It snowed back in October but didn't stick.) This is what our house looked like that day.
A couple days later, it snowed even more. Here are some more pictures of snow:
This is our back deck on a snowy night.
This is looking out the front door at 6:40 a.m., while waiting for Sam's bus to arrive.
This is the view out the back door a little later in the morning.
This is on my way to work.
This is looking out the front door at Kintronic Laboratories, where I work.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Friday Morning Bagel
Cheddar bacon bagel, toasted, with plain cream cheese. That was my order this morning at the Manna Bagel Company on State Street in Bristol, TN. I go there almost every Friday morning and typically order either the above or a banana nut bagel, toasted, with plain cream cheese.
The bagel shop is owned by a Messianic Jewish rabbi named Joe Bell. He's a really nice man with a group of great people working for him. And, his shop produces really, really good bagels!
I've been going there and meeting my long-time friend JC Hobbs for nearly three years now. JC and I are "bagel buddies." JC was one of my teachers in high school, and he was Sam's scout master when Sam was in Boy Scouts. He looks like Grizzly Adams, or maybe Saddam Hussein. (hehehe) I managed to sneak a picture of him this morning as he was laughing at something someone said.
The bagel shop is owned by a Messianic Jewish rabbi named Joe Bell. He's a really nice man with a group of great people working for him. And, his shop produces really, really good bagels!
I've been going there and meeting my long-time friend JC Hobbs for nearly three years now. JC and I are "bagel buddies." JC was one of my teachers in high school, and he was Sam's scout master when Sam was in Boy Scouts. He looks like Grizzly Adams, or maybe Saddam Hussein. (hehehe) I managed to sneak a picture of him this morning as he was laughing at something someone said.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Wal-Mart Tips
Here are some tips for checking out at Wal-Mart:
1) If you have anything heavy in your cart, do not put it up on the belt. You do not have to prove that you are manly enough to haul it up there. You see, your cashier, though likely not as manly as you, as probably already hauled tens (if not hundreds) of those item across the scanner today and would appreciate the reprieve.
2) If you have large bags of dog food, cat food, cat litter, etc., check for a peel-off bar code label that can be handed to the cashier while the bag is left in the cart.
3) Once you put your items on the belt, do not constantly fiddle with them, rearranging them. Meticulous cashiers look over the items on the belt and determine the best order to ring them up to ensure the most efficient way to bag them. If you rearrange things, it may mess up her system.
4) Please hang up the phone! Talking on a cell phone while checking out is not just rude, it can be an impediment. You can not possibly pay attention to what the cashier needs to say to you if you are talking on the phone.
5) Parents, watch your children. Shopping can be a stressful time for kids, and they often show it by acting up. Many times, parents aggravate the situation by being unnecessarily harsh. Relax. The children will usually follow the parents' lead and relax also. If your child(ren) make a mess (ie: a bag of M&M's spilled all over the floor), at least show some concern and even make an attempt to clean it up. Then, the cashier will have sympathy for you.
6) When you buy a potted plant from the Garden Center, pay for it in the Garden Center, if at all possible. If you must take it through the front-end checkout, do not put the plant on the belt, unless the cashier instructs you to do so. It is usually easier for the cashier to come around and scan the plant with the hand-held scanner than to clean dirt from the plant off the belt and scanner.
7) Don't expect the cashier to read your mind. If you have items to price-match, let her know BEFORE she rings it up. Otherwise, the item will have to be voided and rung up again.
8) Last, but certainly not least: BE FRIENDLY!!! The job can be stressful at times, but a smile and/or friendly conversation from a customer can really brighten up the work shift!
These tips apply to checking out at a regular register with a cashier running it. There is a whole other list of tips for using the self-checkouts. Number one: If in doubt, DON'T use it!!!
1) If you have anything heavy in your cart, do not put it up on the belt. You do not have to prove that you are manly enough to haul it up there. You see, your cashier, though likely not as manly as you, as probably already hauled tens (if not hundreds) of those item across the scanner today and would appreciate the reprieve.
2) If you have large bags of dog food, cat food, cat litter, etc., check for a peel-off bar code label that can be handed to the cashier while the bag is left in the cart.
3) Once you put your items on the belt, do not constantly fiddle with them, rearranging them. Meticulous cashiers look over the items on the belt and determine the best order to ring them up to ensure the most efficient way to bag them. If you rearrange things, it may mess up her system.
4) Please hang up the phone! Talking on a cell phone while checking out is not just rude, it can be an impediment. You can not possibly pay attention to what the cashier needs to say to you if you are talking on the phone.
5) Parents, watch your children. Shopping can be a stressful time for kids, and they often show it by acting up. Many times, parents aggravate the situation by being unnecessarily harsh. Relax. The children will usually follow the parents' lead and relax also. If your child(ren) make a mess (ie: a bag of M&M's spilled all over the floor), at least show some concern and even make an attempt to clean it up. Then, the cashier will have sympathy for you.
6) When you buy a potted plant from the Garden Center, pay for it in the Garden Center, if at all possible. If you must take it through the front-end checkout, do not put the plant on the belt, unless the cashier instructs you to do so. It is usually easier for the cashier to come around and scan the plant with the hand-held scanner than to clean dirt from the plant off the belt and scanner.
7) Don't expect the cashier to read your mind. If you have items to price-match, let her know BEFORE she rings it up. Otherwise, the item will have to be voided and rung up again.
8) Last, but certainly not least: BE FRIENDLY!!! The job can be stressful at times, but a smile and/or friendly conversation from a customer can really brighten up the work shift!
These tips apply to checking out at a regular register with a cashier running it. There is a whole other list of tips for using the self-checkouts. Number one: If in doubt, DON'T use it!!!
Monday, November 10, 2008
How I Broke a Cash Register at Wal-Mart
Of course, it had to be I...accident-prone Suzanne...who broke the cash register. And, it had to be Saturday, one of the busiest days we've had at Wal-Mart in a while...what with the "grand opening" of Toyland, in anticipation of Christmas.
First, let me tell you a little about the register. The keys have a base with a stem that connects them to the keyboard. On top is a sort of cap that holds on the label telling the function of the key. On many registers, some of the more frequently used keys have lost that cap on top, and consequently the name label also; and we have to just know what the key does because of its location.
So, when I logged onto register #3, the busiest register in the store, the first thing I noticed was that the "TOTAL" key was wobbly. I assumed that the cap was loose and pushed down a little too hard, trying to snap it back on. Instead, the whole key broke off, even the stem. Well, that rendered the whole register unusable because the "TOTAL" key is required for each transaction.
The CSM came over and looked at it for a few minutes, trying to see if there was any way to quickly fix it. My customers were standing there staring at us. I was able to complete the sale for the first customer in line, but then I had to move down to the next available register and close down register #3.
Some time between 11pm Saturday and 3:30pm Sunday, someone fixed the register; but I was not assigned to use that one again. I spent most of my shift yesterday on the self-checkout monitor where I wouldn't have to use the register much.
First, let me tell you a little about the register. The keys have a base with a stem that connects them to the keyboard. On top is a sort of cap that holds on the label telling the function of the key. On many registers, some of the more frequently used keys have lost that cap on top, and consequently the name label also; and we have to just know what the key does because of its location.
So, when I logged onto register #3, the busiest register in the store, the first thing I noticed was that the "TOTAL" key was wobbly. I assumed that the cap was loose and pushed down a little too hard, trying to snap it back on. Instead, the whole key broke off, even the stem. Well, that rendered the whole register unusable because the "TOTAL" key is required for each transaction.
The CSM came over and looked at it for a few minutes, trying to see if there was any way to quickly fix it. My customers were standing there staring at us. I was able to complete the sale for the first customer in line, but then I had to move down to the next available register and close down register #3.
Some time between 11pm Saturday and 3:30pm Sunday, someone fixed the register; but I was not assigned to use that one again. I spent most of my shift yesterday on the self-checkout monitor where I wouldn't have to use the register much.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Sam is sick
Poor Sam is sick at home today. He's been complaining of stomach cramps for about two weeks, but I didn't think much of it since he didn't have any other symptoms...until this weekend, that is. Since he developed more symptoms this weekend, I took him to the doctor yesterday and found out he has a stomach virus. It's pretty much going to have to run its course, but the doctor did give him something to help with the cramps. Unfortunately, the medicine knocks him out. He was hurting too badly this morning to go to school without taking any of the medicine, so I let him stay home and sleep. Hopefully he'll be feeling much better by tomorrow. I hate for him to miss too much school.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Update on new 'do
Well... Wednesday afternoon I LOVED my new hairdo. Yesterday I still loved it. That's because I didn't wash it! This morning, I washed it, and now I'm not so crazy about it. How exactly did Lori get it to look so good? Apparently, my hairdo is too sophisticated for me! haha Since I couldn't get it to do what I wanted it to do, I put it up in a sort of Palin-esque manner. See what you think:
Thursday, October 23, 2008
New 'do
Yesterday I got a new hairdo, and I love it! I decided it was time for a complete change, so I experimented with highlights and lowlights. (Since it was my first time to get hightlights, the owner of the salon said I was a "highlight virgin" -- too funny!) It took FOREVER, but it was worth it. Scott and Sam both like it as well. Here are a couple pictures:
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Another story from Wal-Mart
A couple nights ago at Wal-Mart, I had my 90-day evaluation. I didn't realize I had been there that long already. To my delight, it said that I met or exceeded all expectations. There were only a couple areas of improvement suggested. One was that I need to be more verbal with customers and managers. WOW! How cool is that! A job where they tell me to talk more!!! Anyone who knows me at all knows that I love to talk.
Speaking of talking to customers, I had a very interesting conversation this past weekend with one of my customers. It reminded me of a country song I've heard. (It's scary how many times that happens here in East Tennessee!) I don't know the song or who sings it, but I've heard a song that tells about a girl beating up a guy's truck because he cheated on her. The song makes me smile, but the story I heard Saturday night made me laugh out loud! This guy in my line started telling me about THREE girls who ganged up and did all kinds of damage to his truck. They punctured his tires, busted out his lights, and tried to rip up the seats. According to him, he wasn't "dating" any of the three but was only "seeing" them. (What's the difference?) He told me, even though I didn't ask, that they didn't beat him up, just his truck. He really was a piece of work! I just couldn't keep my composure with this guy and ended up laughing out loud.
Well, after he paid for his things and left, the guy behind him told me the real story. Apparently, the two guys were coworkers at the time of the incident, and he knew all about it. He said the guy was actually "dating" all three of the girls at the same time, and two of the girls worked together. Not only did the girls trash the pickup, they also beat the guy up pretty badly as well. (I guess he didn't want to admit to being beat up by girls. hahaha) Now, he has a job as a truck driver, and we were surmising what kind of trouble he could get himself into with that kind of job. He also said he was surprised the guy hadn't tried asking me out, but I assumed it was probably because I was laughing too hard for him to get it in there.
Speaking of talking to customers, I had a very interesting conversation this past weekend with one of my customers. It reminded me of a country song I've heard. (It's scary how many times that happens here in East Tennessee!) I don't know the song or who sings it, but I've heard a song that tells about a girl beating up a guy's truck because he cheated on her. The song makes me smile, but the story I heard Saturday night made me laugh out loud! This guy in my line started telling me about THREE girls who ganged up and did all kinds of damage to his truck. They punctured his tires, busted out his lights, and tried to rip up the seats. According to him, he wasn't "dating" any of the three but was only "seeing" them. (What's the difference?) He told me, even though I didn't ask, that they didn't beat him up, just his truck. He really was a piece of work! I just couldn't keep my composure with this guy and ended up laughing out loud.
Well, after he paid for his things and left, the guy behind him told me the real story. Apparently, the two guys were coworkers at the time of the incident, and he knew all about it. He said the guy was actually "dating" all three of the girls at the same time, and two of the girls worked together. Not only did the girls trash the pickup, they also beat the guy up pretty badly as well. (I guess he didn't want to admit to being beat up by girls. hahaha) Now, he has a job as a truck driver, and we were surmising what kind of trouble he could get himself into with that kind of job. He also said he was surprised the guy hadn't tried asking me out, but I assumed it was probably because I was laughing too hard for him to get it in there.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Movie Review
Last weekend, Scott and I went to see the movie "Fireproof". What a powerful movie! I think it is one that every married couple in America should see. It was made by the same people who gave us "Facing the Giants" a couple years ago.
In the movie, Kirk Cameron plays a fire fighter who learns that his motto "never leave your partner behind" applies to his marriage as well as his job. He takes a 40-day challenge to win back his wife's heart. In the end, he found out that he could not do it on his own. Without the love of Christ in his heart and life, it would have been impossible.
Click here to watch the movie trailer.
Monday, I bought the book The Love Dare, which is featured in the movie and decided to take the same 40-day challenge. Let me tell you, it's much harder than it seems it would be, and I'm only on day 4!
In the movie, Kirk Cameron plays a fire fighter who learns that his motto "never leave your partner behind" applies to his marriage as well as his job. He takes a 40-day challenge to win back his wife's heart. In the end, he found out that he could not do it on his own. Without the love of Christ in his heart and life, it would have been impossible.
Click here to watch the movie trailer.
Monday, I bought the book The Love Dare, which is featured in the movie and decided to take the same 40-day challenge. Let me tell you, it's much harder than it seems it would be, and I'm only on day 4!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Another Wal-Mart Story
After this one, I'll have to come up with something else to write about. You, my readers, will get tired of hearing about goings on at Wal-Mart. The thing is, there are so many funny and interesting things happening there all the time.
A couple weeks ago, I was working the door. (No, nobody robbed us that time, that I know of, any way.) An older gentleman (older than my dad, but perhaps not old enough to be my grandpa) leaned over my podium, right in my face, and said, "You've got freckles! My mom had freckles, too."
Well, I was taken aback, as you can imagine. I just smiled and agreed that yes, I do have freckles. He replied with, "You know, freckles are not bad. They're nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about."
I answered, "I know. I like my freckles."
His response was, "Good! My mom liked her freckles, too!"
By this time, I was hoping he would just leave. So, I said as politely as I could, "Have a good night, sir!"
His reply made me smile. He said, "I sure will, now that I've seen YOU!"
A couple weeks ago, I was working the door. (No, nobody robbed us that time, that I know of, any way.) An older gentleman (older than my dad, but perhaps not old enough to be my grandpa) leaned over my podium, right in my face, and said, "You've got freckles! My mom had freckles, too."
Well, I was taken aback, as you can imagine. I just smiled and agreed that yes, I do have freckles. He replied with, "You know, freckles are not bad. They're nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about."
I answered, "I know. I like my freckles."
His response was, "Good! My mom liked her freckles, too!"
By this time, I was hoping he would just leave. So, I said as politely as I could, "Have a good night, sir!"
His reply made me smile. He said, "I sure will, now that I've seen YOU!"
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Excitement at Wal-Mart
Sunday night when I went to work at Wal-Mart, I was put at the door for the first hour to give the greeter her dinner break. I have never really liked working the door, and now I don't want to EVER work the door again.
After I had been there for about 20 minutes, a young man walked past me pushing a cart with a small child in the seat and a diaper bag in the bottom of the cart and nothing else in it. Behind him was a man pushing a cart with two children sitting in the open part of the cart. Well, as the young man was leaving, he set off the security alarm and started running. The man behind him was in my way, so by the time I got to the door, the boy was all the way at the end of the parking lot. He had run through the whole parking lot, dodging vehicles, with that baby in the cart. I was sick to my stomach and shaking all over. Then, I realized that although the man behind him had gone a totally different direction when he went out the door, he circled around and met up with him in the parking lot. The two men and three children all left in the same vehicle. Then, I was angry!
I called the security guy (Brian) to come up there and told him all about what happened. He said he thought he knew who the guys were but would check out the security videos to be sure. He told me later that he had seen the whole thing on the videos and was correct about the men. He caught them stealing something just a few days earlier, and they had dared to come back and try again! He said he WILL catch them next time. I hope so!
After I had been there for about 20 minutes, a young man walked past me pushing a cart with a small child in the seat and a diaper bag in the bottom of the cart and nothing else in it. Behind him was a man pushing a cart with two children sitting in the open part of the cart. Well, as the young man was leaving, he set off the security alarm and started running. The man behind him was in my way, so by the time I got to the door, the boy was all the way at the end of the parking lot. He had run through the whole parking lot, dodging vehicles, with that baby in the cart. I was sick to my stomach and shaking all over. Then, I realized that although the man behind him had gone a totally different direction when he went out the door, he circled around and met up with him in the parking lot. The two men and three children all left in the same vehicle. Then, I was angry!
I called the security guy (Brian) to come up there and told him all about what happened. He said he thought he knew who the guys were but would check out the security videos to be sure. He told me later that he had seen the whole thing on the videos and was correct about the men. He caught them stealing something just a few days earlier, and they had dared to come back and try again! He said he WILL catch them next time. I hope so!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Busy, busy, busy
I know I haven't been keeping up with this very well lately, but I've been busy. Have you ever noticed that when you're super-busy that's when you have stories to tell. Unfortunately, that's also when you don't have the time to tell the stories. Then, when things slow down some and you have time, either you forget the stories or they are no longer relevant. Gotta hate it when that happens!
As most of you know, I'm working two jobs now, which makes for a lot of potential material to write about on here. (If only I had time to get on here like I want to.) My first job is at Kintronic Laboratories, a family-owned business that creates custom-designed radio tower equipment, mostly for AM radio stations. We have customers all over the country and around the world. I started working here in late 2005 and like it pretty well, most days. I work as an accountant, 4 hours each morning, M-F. I'd like to be full-time, but I guess they just don't need that at this point.
So, I had to go out and get a second part-time job. In the evenings and on weekends, I work as a cashier at Wal-Mart. Surprisingly, I usually enjoy that job more than my first job. The atmosphere is more relaxed, and it turns out I'm a very good cashier. One thing I like about working at Wal-Mart is all the funny things I see people do. For example:
Sometimes, I am at the self-checkout monitor, and that's where I see the funniest stuff. When some people step up to those registers, they should get a message that says something like: "Please step away from the register. You are too stupid to use self-checkout." That would actually apply to most people, even many Wal-Mart associates. One day, an associate was trying to check out before leaving at the end of her shift, and there were at least three other associates there helping her, including an assistant manager. It made me laugh and wonder ... so, how many Wal-Mart associates does it take to successfully use a self-checkout register?
As most of you know, I'm working two jobs now, which makes for a lot of potential material to write about on here. (If only I had time to get on here like I want to.) My first job is at Kintronic Laboratories, a family-owned business that creates custom-designed radio tower equipment, mostly for AM radio stations. We have customers all over the country and around the world. I started working here in late 2005 and like it pretty well, most days. I work as an accountant, 4 hours each morning, M-F. I'd like to be full-time, but I guess they just don't need that at this point.
So, I had to go out and get a second part-time job. In the evenings and on weekends, I work as a cashier at Wal-Mart. Surprisingly, I usually enjoy that job more than my first job. The atmosphere is more relaxed, and it turns out I'm a very good cashier. One thing I like about working at Wal-Mart is all the funny things I see people do. For example:
Sometimes, I am at the self-checkout monitor, and that's where I see the funniest stuff. When some people step up to those registers, they should get a message that says something like: "Please step away from the register. You are too stupid to use self-checkout." That would actually apply to most people, even many Wal-Mart associates. One day, an associate was trying to check out before leaving at the end of her shift, and there were at least three other associates there helping her, including an assistant manager. It made me laugh and wonder ... so, how many Wal-Mart associates does it take to successfully use a self-checkout register?
Monday, October 6, 2008
MUSIC IN THE CASTLE
This past Saturday, Tennessee High School held their annual "Music in the Castle" band competition. Vance Middle School held with a tradition over 40 years old by opening the festival with "America the Beautiful" and "The Star-Spangled Banner." It was Sam's first marching-band experience. Although the weather was beautiful with cooler temperatures than what we had been having, it was still very hot in those band uniforms. BUT, those kids looked terrific and sounded even better.
I took some pictures on my cell phone and recorded a snippet. The pictures are below. I was going to share the video as well, but for some reason, I can't get it to play here.
Here is Sam with the rest of the band, practicing in the band room before heading across the street to the THS castle.
Here are the clarinets, trumpets, and trombones while the band is playing "America the Beautiful".
Here they are marching off the field.
Here they are walking back to VMS.
I took some pictures on my cell phone and recorded a snippet. The pictures are below. I was going to share the video as well, but for some reason, I can't get it to play here.
Here is Sam with the rest of the band, practicing in the band room before heading across the street to the THS castle.
Here are the clarinets, trumpets, and trombones while the band is playing "America the Beautiful".
Here they are marching off the field.
Here they are walking back to VMS.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Butterfly
A few nights ago, while walking across the backyard, Sam and I saw a butterfly in the grass.
It didn't move, even though we got closer and closer to it. Sam was even able to pick it up.
He took it over to the honeysuckle bushes at the side of the yard to let it go free, but it couldn't fly. He finally set it down on the ground, and we were both sad that it was too hurt (or too old) to fly. Obviously that was the only reason we were able to get so close to it. I'm just glad that I could get such close up pictures of it. Unfortunately, the pictures do not do it justice. It was absolutely stunning!
It didn't move, even though we got closer and closer to it. Sam was even able to pick it up.
He took it over to the honeysuckle bushes at the side of the yard to let it go free, but it couldn't fly. He finally set it down on the ground, and we were both sad that it was too hurt (or too old) to fly. Obviously that was the only reason we were able to get so close to it. I'm just glad that I could get such close up pictures of it. Unfortunately, the pictures do not do it justice. It was absolutely stunning!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Catch-up
It's been so long since I've written in here that I need to catch up on what's been happening.
Sam is still playing the trumpet and loving it. He likes band so much that he has begun talking about making it his career. Apparently he has talked to his band director about it and has come up with a couple options. He is interested in joining the military as trumpet player or being a school band director. Of course, it could be possible to do both. Mr. Hebert (pronounced Ay-bare), the high school band director, comes to the middle school on Wednesdays for band lessons. Last week, he said that they need another tuba player, and he tested the brass players on the tuba. Sam did really well and liked it a lot. Mr. Hebert said if he chooses Sam for the tuba, he can continue playing the trumpet for this year while having tuba lessons on Wednesdays. Sam hopes he gets chosen!
College football has started. Yay! Last Saturday, I watched that awesome game between Georgia and Central Michigan. GO DAWGS!!! Even Pearl got into the spirit of the game in her new Georgia Bulldogs shirt.
The shirt at the store before I bought it
Pearl posing in her new shirt. (Notice the football cookie dog treat in front of her. She gulped it down in about two bites.)
Pearl relaxing under the dining room table after watching the game with me.
As most of you already know, I'm working two jobs now. I'm back at Kintronic Laboratories, working my usual half-days. I really like it there and would love to be put on full-time, but I don't see that happening any time soon. So, I went out and got myself another part-time job. In the evenings and on weekends, I'm a cashier at Wal-Mart. I've been there about 7 weeks now, and so far I like it quite a bit. It's been hard getting used to being on my feet so much, but I really enjoy the interaction with the customers ... well, most of them, anyway.
If any of you who read my blog are on facebook, please add me as your friend, if we're not friends already. Lately, I've been keeping up with that site much more than this one. I will still continue to post on here as often as possible, though.
Have a great day, everyone!!!
Sam is still playing the trumpet and loving it. He likes band so much that he has begun talking about making it his career. Apparently he has talked to his band director about it and has come up with a couple options. He is interested in joining the military as trumpet player or being a school band director. Of course, it could be possible to do both. Mr. Hebert (pronounced Ay-bare), the high school band director, comes to the middle school on Wednesdays for band lessons. Last week, he said that they need another tuba player, and he tested the brass players on the tuba. Sam did really well and liked it a lot. Mr. Hebert said if he chooses Sam for the tuba, he can continue playing the trumpet for this year while having tuba lessons on Wednesdays. Sam hopes he gets chosen!
College football has started. Yay! Last Saturday, I watched that awesome game between Georgia and Central Michigan. GO DAWGS!!! Even Pearl got into the spirit of the game in her new Georgia Bulldogs shirt.
The shirt at the store before I bought it
Pearl posing in her new shirt. (Notice the football cookie dog treat in front of her. She gulped it down in about two bites.)
Pearl relaxing under the dining room table after watching the game with me.
As most of you already know, I'm working two jobs now. I'm back at Kintronic Laboratories, working my usual half-days. I really like it there and would love to be put on full-time, but I don't see that happening any time soon. So, I went out and got myself another part-time job. In the evenings and on weekends, I'm a cashier at Wal-Mart. I've been there about 7 weeks now, and so far I like it quite a bit. It's been hard getting used to being on my feet so much, but I really enjoy the interaction with the customers ... well, most of them, anyway.
If any of you who read my blog are on facebook, please add me as your friend, if we're not friends already. Lately, I've been keeping up with that site much more than this one. I will still continue to post on here as often as possible, though.
Have a great day, everyone!!!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
New Motto
While out shopping a few nights ago, I saw a display of posters that caught my attention. I showed Scott the one right in front and told him it was going to be my new motto. Although he didn't appreciate it much, many of my readers will completely understand where I'm coming from. Here's a picture of said poster:
Friday, August 15, 2008
Back to School
It's been a while since I've written. I had a very busy summer!! BUT, it's over now, and school is back in session. Thankfully, Sam really likes middle school ... so far, anyway. I think he likes having a different teacher for each subject. Last year he got a small taste of it, with two teachers who each taught half of the subjects. One thing he definitely does NOT like is getting up earlier. Elementary started at 8:10, but middle school starts at 7:30. In order to catch the bus at 6:40, he has to get up around 6:00. That is going to take some getting used to!
Here are a couple pictures of Sam, taken yesterday morning:
Here are a couple pictures of Sam, taken yesterday morning:
Monday, June 23, 2008
Weekly Summary
Last week was FULL!!! I'll start off by telling about last weekend.
I was a little more active than what is prudent, considering my congenital heart defect that is getting worse the older I get. Sam's Little League had a family fun day, and I was talked into playing on the parents' team against those youngsters. Although it was just one inning, I thought I was going to die, or at least pass out! I'm just glad we didn't have to play an entire game -- I wouldn't have made it!
Then, Monday I went to the doctor for what I thought was a urinary tract infection. I had been having symptoms since early last week, and finally couldn't stand it any longer. They performed the usual tests, and the doctor informed me that he didn't see any signs of infection. Instead, he said I probably have a bladder stone, like a kidney stone but in the bladder instead. Well, almost a week later, and I think he may have been wrong. He gave me an antibiotic "just in case" which seems to be helping. Yay!
Monday eveing was the beginning of Vacation Bible School (VBS) at my church. I volunteered to help with the 4- and 5-year-olds. Whew, did I have my work cut out for me!!! We averaged about 14 youngsters in our class each night. I think overall the average attendance was around 140. Although it was tiring, it was also fulfilling. Those children were very precious. Here are a couple pictures of the dears.
Wednesday, Scott was almost electrocuted at work. He was working on a machine which his co-worker said was unplugged but wasn't. The current went through his right arm and chest before it caused his knees to involuntarily straighten, throwing him backwards, away from the machine. I still get shaken whenever I think of how close he was to death that day.
The rest of the week was rather uneventful, which was okay by me.
I was a little more active than what is prudent, considering my congenital heart defect that is getting worse the older I get. Sam's Little League had a family fun day, and I was talked into playing on the parents' team against those youngsters. Although it was just one inning, I thought I was going to die, or at least pass out! I'm just glad we didn't have to play an entire game -- I wouldn't have made it!
Then, Monday I went to the doctor for what I thought was a urinary tract infection. I had been having symptoms since early last week, and finally couldn't stand it any longer. They performed the usual tests, and the doctor informed me that he didn't see any signs of infection. Instead, he said I probably have a bladder stone, like a kidney stone but in the bladder instead. Well, almost a week later, and I think he may have been wrong. He gave me an antibiotic "just in case" which seems to be helping. Yay!
Monday eveing was the beginning of Vacation Bible School (VBS) at my church. I volunteered to help with the 4- and 5-year-olds. Whew, did I have my work cut out for me!!! We averaged about 14 youngsters in our class each night. I think overall the average attendance was around 140. Although it was tiring, it was also fulfilling. Those children were very precious. Here are a couple pictures of the dears.
Wednesday, Scott was almost electrocuted at work. He was working on a machine which his co-worker said was unplugged but wasn't. The current went through his right arm and chest before it caused his knees to involuntarily straighten, throwing him backwards, away from the machine. I still get shaken whenever I think of how close he was to death that day.
The rest of the week was rather uneventful, which was okay by me.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Summer Storms
Monday and yesterday, we had terrible thunderstorms here, with many people experiencing damage to homes, vehicles, and other belongings. Two of my friends went for some time without electricity. Thanks to the Lord, the only damage we had was to our umbrella on the deck. Even our little garden came through unscathed.
Sam had a baseball game that started Monday night and finished up last night, due to the storms. When we went home Monday night, his team was behind, but by the time the game was called off last night, they were ahead. Since more than 4 innings had been completed, it was ruled an official game and will not need to be continued further. Yeah for Sam's team!
With the showers came some cooler temperatures. Last week, we had record-breaking highs, in the mid-90's with a heat index above 100. Today, the high was only in the mid-80's ... much better!
Sam had a baseball game that started Monday night and finished up last night, due to the storms. When we went home Monday night, his team was behind, but by the time the game was called off last night, they were ahead. Since more than 4 innings had been completed, it was ruled an official game and will not need to be continued further. Yeah for Sam's team!
With the showers came some cooler temperatures. Last week, we had record-breaking highs, in the mid-90's with a heat index above 100. Today, the high was only in the mid-80's ... much better!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Water Fun
Yesterday it was hot here, and swimming sounded like the ideal way to cool off. Unfortunately, we don't have a pool. We don't even have a Slip-N-Slide. So, I told the boys they could play outside with the water hose. Taking up an idea Sam had and stratgically placing some liquid laundry detergent turned the little hill beside the house into a water slide. Boy, did those kids have fun!! Here are some pictures.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Shiner
At Sam's game last night, I was wondering why he didn't get to play more. I sensed that there was something wrong, and I was right. After the game, I found out that during the pre-game warm-ups, the ball hit him in the eye. He said it really didn't hurt that much and didn't seem like much of a big deal; but as the game progressed, the swelling got worse and worse. Here's what it looks like today:
Poor Sam! He said he can hardly see out of it today, and it hurts pretty badly. I told him that black eyes are a boy's badge of honor.
P.S. He tried so hard not to smile in the picture since black eyes and smiling faces apparently don't go together. He obviously didn't comb his hair today either. Arghhh!!! Boys!!!
Poor Sam! He said he can hardly see out of it today, and it hurts pretty badly. I told him that black eyes are a boy's badge of honor.
P.S. He tried so hard not to smile in the picture since black eyes and smiling faces apparently don't go together. He obviously didn't comb his hair today either. Arghhh!!! Boys!!!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
What's up
I can't believe how long it's been since I've posted here. A lot has happened in that time, which is why I haven't had time to write.
School is out, and now I'm keeping 2 boys. Levi and his older brother Isaac who is 6 years old. Today, we weeded the garden and made chocolate chip cookies. Both activities were a lot of fun. I'll try to get more pictures on here soon.
School is out, and now I'm keeping 2 boys. Levi and his older brother Isaac who is 6 years old. Today, we weeded the garden and made chocolate chip cookies. Both activities were a lot of fun. I'll try to get more pictures on here soon.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
SIXTH GRADE GRADUATION
Sam's sixth grade graduation was today at 10am. I took several pictures to share on here. Unfortunately, the batteries in my camera were dead, so I had to take the pictures with my cell phone. Consequently, the pictures are rather blurry.
The ceremony began with the pledge to the flag, led by Sam and his friend Nic, each boy scouts.
Here's Sam sitting with his classmates:
All the sixth graders sang the song "Unwritten" as a choral group, and the sixth grade band members performed "Ode to Joy." I couldn't get a picture of the band because of where I was sitting, but here is a picture of the two sixth grade classes singing their song:
After the musical performances, was the presentation of awards. Here is Sam accepting his President's Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement from the principal Dr. Amy Scott and his teacher Mr. Joe Dixon:
And, here is Sam being presented with his Certificate of Completion. I love that smug smile of satisfaction. It's so Sam!!
Here is Sam with Mr. Dixon after all the festivities of the day:
The ceremony began with the pledge to the flag, led by Sam and his friend Nic, each boy scouts.
Here's Sam sitting with his classmates:
All the sixth graders sang the song "Unwritten" as a choral group, and the sixth grade band members performed "Ode to Joy." I couldn't get a picture of the band because of where I was sitting, but here is a picture of the two sixth grade classes singing their song:
After the musical performances, was the presentation of awards. Here is Sam accepting his President's Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement from the principal Dr. Amy Scott and his teacher Mr. Joe Dixon:
And, here is Sam being presented with his Certificate of Completion. I love that smug smile of satisfaction. It's so Sam!!
Here is Sam with Mr. Dixon after all the festivities of the day:
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Spring Band Concert - 5/13/08
Last night was Sam's Spring Band Concert. It was at 7pm in the Vance Middle School gymnasium. First up was Sam's group - the combined Elementary Band, consisting of 6th graders from all six of the elementary schools in the Bristol Tennessee City Schools. They played the following songs:
Barbara Ann
Frere Jacques
Hard Rock Blues
Trombo Mambo
Ode to Joy
My favorite selection was Ode to Joy (also known as "Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee"). The kids did a really good job on it. Here's a picture of Sam and some of the other trumpeteers.
The Vance Middle School Band played next. They did such a great job! The prinicpal of Vance Middle School provided a bit of humor when he joined the band for their last number, dressed in a rock-n-roll styled wig and an AC/DC T-shirt. The kids all got a kick out of it, and so did the parents, I must confess. Here's a picture of him, although it's rather blurry.
Barbara Ann
Frere Jacques
Hard Rock Blues
Trombo Mambo
Ode to Joy
My favorite selection was Ode to Joy (also known as "Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee"). The kids did a really good job on it. Here's a picture of Sam and some of the other trumpeteers.
The Vance Middle School Band played next. They did such a great job! The prinicpal of Vance Middle School provided a bit of humor when he joined the band for their last number, dressed in a rock-n-roll styled wig and an AC/DC T-shirt. The kids all got a kick out of it, and so did the parents, I must confess. Here's a picture of him, although it's rather blurry.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Recap of Last Weekend
It has been a looooooooong time since I've written anything here. It's certainly not been from lack of things to write about. Rather, the reverse. I've been so busy doing fun and interesting things that I haven't had time to update my blog. Today, I'll do a quick recap of last weekend.
First off, on Saturday morning, Sam got contacts. That was a huge new step! It took him a while to get the hang of putting them in and taking them out, but now he's an old pro. Now, he can actually see the ball while he's playing baseball, and there has been an obvious improvement.
The other big event this weekend in the Mumpower household was the completion of our garden. Well, we completed the space. We still haven't gotten everything planted yet.
The previous owners of this house had a flower bed along a wall separating our house from our neighbors. It was overgrown with weeds, and pretty much just a great big mess. Scott extended it out, doubling its size, and put in new lumber borders and a load of topsoil. Sam and I helped by get ting the area ready for the topsoil and then shoveling the topsoil off the trailer into the garden. Scott and I put up a chicken-wire fence to keep out the bunnies.
Here's a picture of Sam and Scott getting it ready for the topsoil:
Here's the completed garden plot with a few plants planted:
We're all very excited about the garden! It will be something fun to do this summer with the kids I'll be keeping, and it will be a good thing for Sam to be involved in. Of course, the best benefit is the savings we will enjoy on our grocery bill.
First off, on Saturday morning, Sam got contacts. That was a huge new step! It took him a while to get the hang of putting them in and taking them out, but now he's an old pro. Now, he can actually see the ball while he's playing baseball, and there has been an obvious improvement.
The other big event this weekend in the Mumpower household was the completion of our garden. Well, we completed the space. We still haven't gotten everything planted yet.
The previous owners of this house had a flower bed along a wall separating our house from our neighbors. It was overgrown with weeds, and pretty much just a great big mess. Scott extended it out, doubling its size, and put in new lumber borders and a load of topsoil. Sam and I helped by get ting the area ready for the topsoil and then shoveling the topsoil off the trailer into the garden. Scott and I put up a chicken-wire fence to keep out the bunnies.
Here's a picture of Sam and Scott getting it ready for the topsoil:
Here's the completed garden plot with a few plants planted:
We're all very excited about the garden! It will be something fun to do this summer with the kids I'll be keeping, and it will be a good thing for Sam to be involved in. Of course, the best benefit is the savings we will enjoy on our grocery bill.
Monday, April 21, 2008
My new vocation
Today I started a new vocation. I'm babysitting my friend Mary Katherine's son every day while she goes to work. Levi is four years old and an absolute doll!!! We have both been looking forward to this for a week, and we had a great time today.
The green-eyed monster reared its ugly head today. Sam went to the nurse at school because he was feeling "sick", and I had to go pick him up from school around 10:30 this morning. I think he was suffering from jealousy more than anything else.
Here are several pictures I took:
Eating breakfast
Levi "reading" to me
Time to color!
Playing outside with Pearl
Being a boy -- playing in dirt
The green-eyed monster reared its ugly head today. Sam went to the nurse at school because he was feeling "sick", and I had to go pick him up from school around 10:30 this morning. I think he was suffering from jealousy more than anything else.
Here are several pictures I took:
Eating breakfast
Levi "reading" to me
Time to color!
Playing outside with Pearl
Being a boy -- playing in dirt
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