More Than a Baker's Dozen

4 of the 5...

2009-07-01T19:41:00.000-07:00

Tootie, we miss you DREADFULLY.

Xmas '08 - Roundin' up the Reindeer

2008-12-21T16:35:00.000-08:00

Oma and Pops would like to wish you and yours as much love and joy as we have with our darling grandchildren!

As we celebrate His birth this Christmas, we wish you all the joys that are found in Christ alone!

- Luv ya' - M&K

P.S. I'm sorry that this postcard doesn't show up any clearer. Hope you can tell that the picture in the middle is of Beau as Rudolph. Thomas and his girlfriend, Jordan tried to coral him while the four girls rounded up the other eight reindeer in Colorado Springs (Erika and Schelijn have five of them: G, D, JG, C and E) and in Greenville (Danielle and Nancy have three of them for now: O, G and R). Feel free to go to the kids' own blogspots for more pictures and stories - I believe the links are somewhere on this site!

Two perspectives on the Trip to Canada, eh?

2008-10-25T10:48:00.001-07:00

Olice and Georgia both had to put their two cents worth in after traveling to and from Canada last weekend. It was quite a memorable trip and we want to thank Becky and Mitch (Robinson) for giving us an excuse to have a Schepers' reunion party. It was a lovely wedding and we're all so happy for you both! Enjoy your honeymoon and I bet there'll be lots of good pictures floating around the web when you get back!! Here are just a couple of links to help you relive those precious memories..

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=64882&l=30015&id=544953351

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=64780&l=6fd78&id=544953351

Love you - Marijke (for all the Schepers that could make it this time!)

A link to pics of 6 of our 8 grand babes last month!

2008-09-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=56503&l=a1341&id=544953351

Follow the links to see the girls' pics of their week together in Colorado

2008-06-21T10:06:00.000-07:00

Schelyn posted some great pics on her Facebook account - it's worth signing up with FB just to see them! But there may be some on her and Danielle's blogspots as well. Hope you know how to get there! - M

More June Fun Shots put to Music

2008-06-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Enjoy the Slide Show

2008-06-21T07:07:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Thomas' surprise visit to Greenville

2008-06-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, Thomas has taken a job for the summer in Washington State. Near Seattle actually. We were thinking that, unless we went to the beach to see him, we wouldn't have gotten to see him until August. However, he surprised us all and changed his beach flight ticket so that he could see us for a weekend (and to surprise Jordan, too). We were all delighted but a little sad that Nancy and Danielle were not in town with their 3 babies (did you already see the picture of all of them out in Colorado?) Anyway, Ken and I did get to see them for a day and a night at the beach - before heading back for GM & GD's 65th wedding anniversary party! I might be able to blog some of those pictures later but for now: look on facebook - I'll be happy to be your 'Friend' so you can see more beach pics, too!

Yes, this is what you think it is - a baby shark caught by one of Jordan's cousins, Caleb. Are you thinking the same thing that I am? Where is the Mamma while this kid is playing with her baby?

BLISS

2008-06-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

Life Goes On

2008-06-02T14:12:00.000-07:00

Mom and Dad have moved in - as of Mother's Day (or Ken's sister, Ruth's birthday) - and we now have what Erika calls: "A new normal". We've been to lots of doctors already and have plenty more to see for various reasons but, all in all, the 'rents are doing well and seem to be adjusting a bit.

Ken and I have taken time out to help dear friends, Mike and Deanna (and Jared) move - and we've enjoyed watching the crop being harvested on our land (a short walk from our house). Plus we've had numerous occasions to enjoy a meal and fellowship with family. I think Olice and Georgia really like having Grandma and Grandpa here!

More later! (I'll post pictures of the day Dad left the rehab hospital and then you'll be able to see that he's really put on some pounds!)

-Marijke (& Ken) - the almost-empty-nesters!!

At last: Pops' Visit

2008-04-14T05:43:00.000-07:00

The grandsons get the most say when Pops arrives! A trip to the Air Force Academy and then a meal in an actual aircraft! The 'boys' even had a rocket-launching episode!

And the 'girls' are content just to 'hang out'.

Going home!!

2008-04-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

Schelyn was so excited to leave the hospital to get back to her own little nest today. Check out the flowers as well as Elloree's pretty bed in her brother's room (and the cradle in her parents' room for now).

This Oma tried to make a cute hat to match Elloree's blanket but it needs a little work, don't you agree? It kind of looks like a crown, though and this little girl will grow up thinking she is the princess of Monaco with that poster in her room!

Next Day's Visit From Brother

2008-04-03T21:18:00.000-07:00

Jack Greer got a little more interested in his new baby sister, Elloree when he saw that she bought him a couple of presents!

The Newest West Coast Babe

2008-04-03T20:59:00.001-07:00

Pictures of Elloree Grace Flippin just after she arrived on April 1st, 2008 - and then after her brother came to see her. He's not all that impressed, as you can might well guess!!

A link to see pics of Elloree

2008-04-01T22:13:00.000-07:00

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=34859&l=0c1af&id=544953351

Finally figured out how to download them!!

"Welcome to Elloree"

2008-04-01T20:48:00.000-07:00

"Welcome to Elloree" -

So says a sign on the road to the beach and we're pretty sure that's how Schelyn and Todd came up with the name for their BRAND NEW baby daughter:

Elloree Grace was born at 2:24 this morning, April 1st; she was 7 lbs., 9 oz. and 20 inches long. I know because I was there!! What a thrill to be present in the delivery room and to actually cut this little one's cord, too! THANK you so much, Guys.

Naturally I'm writing from Colorado - this week I'm getting to know Jack Greer better (he was also named after a South Carolina town, you know!)

Anyway, I've hung up a very different sign to say "Welcome to Elloree (Grace)" - it says: Hartelijk Gefeliciteerd - dutch for Congratulations!!

Though I've taken some pictures, I can't post any yet 'cause I can't figure out this Mac computer exactly - but there are shots to look at on:

www.erikacounts.blogspot.com

and I'm sure Todd will be putting some up very soon, too, at:

www.tootietales.blogspot.com

(see both of these links top right of this blog)

ENJOY (WE ARE)!!

Love, Oma (Pops is supposed to be coming shortly!)

A few shots of the 'West Coast Babes'

2008-03-29T06:52:00.000-07:00

Getting in lots of hugs before the new baby arrives!
Garrison
Daniel
Caroline
Mommy Erika with CarolineMommy Schelyn with her sick little Jack Greer; we're praying that he gets all better before his sister arrives.

Our "Ladies' Man", Red

2008-03-22T05:12:00.000-07:00

Yes, the ladies sure do love you already, Red. You're at such a cute age! Letting you try a lime was fun - but Oma thought you'd probably rather have a cookie. Sorry - you'll have to wait a while longer for that!

Four Generations here when Oom Dirk visited

2008-03-22T04:50:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much for stopping by on your way from Mississippi, Dirk! We were all blessed by your visit and can't wait to hear more as you take yet another trip across the Atlantic on the QMII - this time to make a permanent move to Holland with Tante Tini! You will both miss New Bern, NC but you will love being so close to so many of your grandkids!!

rockin' out the exersaucer

2008-03-16T14:43:00.000-07:00

mom asked me to post some RM pictures here... mom, i think most people probably get their RM fill at our site too, but here he is again. Enjoy!

The Green Truck Goes Out for a Spin

2008-03-01T11:48:00.000-08:00

Thomas was home for the weekend (thanks to Jordan being in town for her brother & dad's birthdays). He decided to take the old green truck to the library to study. Thomas would rather not have this tool box on the back, and the truck's still lacking some of the chrome bits, but it won't take long to finish it off nicely (they tell me this anyway!) In any case, it sounds really neat and is a fun ride to be sure; Jordan will love sitting on the avocado-green bench seat with her 'man'!! Enjoy... (This Chevy's a 1970, by the way - for anyone who wants to know such particulars.)

The fence job is coming along...

2008-03-01T10:47:00.000-08:00

Antonio and Ken got all the boards up for the back of the garden last weekend

Here's Ken walking around to the left corner of the house to work on that piece today.
The top of each fence section will be cut into a curve shape similar to our neighbor's existing fence.

The views from inside the garden.
The view that people will see if they enter by this future gate. We plan to box out the bottom of the screened porch to store lawn equipment. Anyway, Beau will like having a place to prowl in, we think.

The Valentine's Frog Balloon is Sleeping...

2008-03-01T10:36:00.001-08:00

Olice was over the other day and naturally I hadn't thrown out the Valentine's balloon until he'd gotten a chance to play with it. Needless to say, it wasn't long before the string got ripped off and the frog sailed to the ceiling. (Good thing it was the kitchen ceiling which is considerably lower than some of the others in the house.) Anyway, Olice, with his VIVID imagination (he's a story teller like his Oma, I can tell) said: "My frog is sleeping on the ceiling." WE thought it was funny, anyway (typical grandparent reaction, of course!) Needless to say, we just LOVE having a few grandbabies closeby - and we LONG to see the others in Colorado in less than a month! Go, Schelyn - can't wait to meet your little girl.

Did I forget to mention that Ruth was there, too?

2008-02-23T10:40:00.000-08:00

In my haste I neglected to post pictures of Ken's dear sister, Ruth who came the furthest distance of all to see her dad last weekend. With all that she has going on in her life right now, it was a huge love effort to fly from England to be with all of us. (We put her in the 4-generation shots but she's kind of in between, if you know what I mean - much too young at heart to join in with Ken and my age group!) Our daughters treat her more like an older sister, that's for sure - probably 'cause she usually takes them shopping or something fun when she's with them. Not this time, unfortunately - but one day soon, we all hope - in New Jersey, South Carolina or Colorado!

Visit with Grandad

2008-02-20T12:18:00.000-08:00

Thankfully we found Dad to be awake and in good spirits the day we all invaded. He never acted like we were wearing him out but it must have been quite overwhelming. Still, the babies had come a long way (12 hour ride) and weren't about to leave without seeing their great grandfather!

The following day he was to receive his feeding tube and he slept for hours after that procedure. Then today (two days later) he was moved to a nursing home where they can care for him while he hopefully regains the use of the muscles in his eusophagus.

Tonight Erika will arrive with her baby Caroline. They will only be staying for three nights but I'm sure it's a comfort for Mom to see how much she and Dad are loved.

Mom playing peekaboo with the babes.

Red reminds us of Winston Churchill.

Love, Love, Love, Love, Love, Love, Love and more Love to come

2008-02-14T14:12:00.000-08:00

Make a free ecard - it's easy!

Happy B'day GG and other news, too

2008-02-05T14:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Garrison - I'm so glad we got to talk on the phone today and that you liked your little book. I can't wait to see it myself soon! And I'm so glad SOMEONE posted all those pictures of you - who was that anyway?

On a totally different subject, for those of you who are wondering about Thomas' girlfriend, Jordan, I just want to let you know that they claim that they are officially in a relationship! As a matter of fact, they both told me I could put their picture up where I have his sisters and our older sons. Not that this means anything for sure, of course, but I'm happy for both of them that they have each other at this time in their lives.

We really like you, Jordan; come by as often as you dare!! - Oma Marijke

G - Money

2008-02-05T13:24:00.000-08:00

He's Four. The oldest of the Baker dozen Grands turned four years old today. And in a few short weeks he'll have SEVEN UNDER him! Crazy. We love you G-money! All the way from South Carolina, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

a little fun in the new seat

2008-01-30T15:25:00.000-08:00

man, this thing isn't so bad... i can see lots of great angles...

and i've got these toys to play with and drool on, so that's fun...

ooo, dad... i think you need to know something. See, i think i might have...

Just dropped a bumbo bomb.

This Video is Guaranteed to Make you Laugh

2008-01-22T05:06:00.000-08:00

Always ready for some mischief, here is Olice making eyes for the newly decorated 'Gentlebread' House (at Christmas). He really liked the $1.00 helmet that Oma found for him, too. He makes us all laugh so much but, if you cut and paste the following link, you will see that something really got HIM laughing - and his giggle is SO contagious!

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4272679520516890590&hl=en

who loves greenville? we love greenville!

2008-01-17T14:01:00.001-08:00

and the funny statues downtown... especially when rare opportunities to decorate them come from a fun little snow!

daddy's girl

2008-01-14T12:59:00.000-08:00

Mom's camera is AMAZING! She took these shots with such rapid fire i didn't even know she'd taken more than one.

no, i wasn't the daddy's girl of the bunch growing up... Nanni Pan definitely was her daddy's baby girl... but who can really be a daddy's girl when daddy's got FOUR DAUGHTERS?
Anyway, i'm glad we still live close enough to enjoy seeing this daddio from time to time.

Never too late for a Christmas Carol like this!

2008-01-11T09:32:00.001-08:00

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5367852386182273149

If you cut and paste the above link into the space at the top of your computer screen, then hit the green arrow (of course), you will see a cute little video of Olice singing Away in a Manger - well, part of it at least!

I'm not through posting about Christmas, by the way. It's way too special a time of year and, besides, the days after the 25th are some of the best of all! - Oma Marijke

Baker's Blunders '07

2007-12-14T10:42:00.001-08:00

Make a postcard!

Bad Hair Day

2007-12-12T15:58:00.001-08:00

I know how it feels, Olice - that's why some days are just great for hats!

This sure is a big stocking to fill!

2007-12-10T15:25:00.000-08:00

Olice can't think of a better stocking stuffer than his new baby sister, Georgia!!

Trying to find ways to minimize our Carbon Footprint

2007-12-10T15:14:00.000-08:00

How's this for beating the 'no clotheslines in our neighborhood' rule!! I don't have to worry if it starts to rain while I'm at the store. And there aren't any birds or pine trees to mess up the clean clothes, either! All I have to do is stand on our back step and reel the line in and out. Then, with two windows in the garage, we can still get that ultra fresh smell of air-dried sheets & towels - and we're saving the world's electricity at the same time. Send more ideas our way, if you please!!

'Drop Back and Punt' - I think this title is a football term -

2007-11-25T13:57:00.000-08:00

Not many outside of our family knew that Ken and I were getting ready to go to Newark and Boston for the Thanksgiving weekend. It would have been so great to see Ken's folks again and especially my dutch cousin, her family and her parents! However, it wasn't 'meant to be'. Ken just wasn't well enough to put him through the riggors of flying and socializing. We didn't want pneumonia to set in, after all. And so we stayed home for an unexpected time alone.
First we ate our turkey dinner at a local English Tea Room with a wonderful older couple from church, Earl and Marge Eckerson, and her sister, Jane. Next we went to their home for some fabulous blueberry pie - how relaxing can you get! (Obviously we hadn't planned to cook so didn't have groceries in the house. Ask me if I was sad!! NOT.)

The next day we started thinking about unpacking some of the new boxes that were brought over from the warehouse. And then we even considered planting some more pansies around the front of the house.

On Day Three of our weekend, I started asking myself if one can actually get TOO relaxed? I mean, I know Ken had doctor's orders to rest but I found myself taking some pretty lame pictures: of other people's Thanksgiving company leaving, low clouds and sunsets over outhouses! And still there were boxes and flowers to tend to.

But finally, after inspiration from a neighbor's pretty Christmas wreath, we actually did something! Thomas helped us set up our push-button tree! It may not be real and therefore lacks a lot of smell and character but, let me tell you, it's been a big hit for Olice. He spent the night over here last night and I thought I had lost him in the house one time. Then I saw his socks sticking out from underneath the tree. (His little light-struck body was completely hidden behind this new addition to the house. As a matter of fact, he could have easily knocked the whole thing down like so many other male toddlers his age might have been tempted to do.)

Since we hadn't found any ornaments yet to put on the tree, we left this little sign on it - it's the 'made in china' tag. It hung there until Olice took it off and ate it. Maybe it's a good thing that we left the tree so sparsely decorated, eh?

Anyway, since all we have is a picture of that 'ornament' now, it reminds me that Ken is very close to being A-OK again! Not that we'll be taking any trips anytime soon - he will be covered up with work for the next month or so. But at least we might motivate each other to open some boxes. Who knows - we might even find some unbreakable ornaments with which to decorate for the holidays...

So, to Mom & Dad and all our very sweet Dutch relatives who we didn't get to see, we say:
May it not be too long 'til we see you again!

Happy Holidays to one and all from K&M and all the Greenville Baker's (like Thomas and Georgia).

P.S. There was a very big football game on TV yesterday that HAD to be watched - two rival teams were doing their annual battle down here in South Carolina. It's hard for Thomas to know who to cheer for now - he'd been a USC Gamecock fan all his life, like his Colorado family but now he's going to school at Clemson (Nancy, Reid and Olice all root for the Tigers!) Yes, we're a family divided but it's not as bad as you'd think! I guess I just said all that to explain the title...
Thanks for putting up with my ramblings - and someone please tell me to stop relaxing please! - Marijke

It's Another Girl!

2007-11-21T04:45:00.001-08:00

I don't have a picture to share - of the happy family. (They're all on the office computer or on a CD somewhere in this messy office.) But Jack Greer is going to have a SISTER in April and we're all thrilled - especially Todd and Schelyn and, of course, Caroline and Georgia!

You can go to their blogspot to check it out:

www.tootietales.blogspot.com

What Was Going On While the Boys Played

2007-11-21T04:28:00.000-08:00

I was right - these memories didn't get blogged. It was when Dot and Ray got to meet little Caroline for the first time. Naturally they saw a big difference in her two older brothers as well - and loved seeing her parents - but the real thrill was getting to fuss over the new little pink bundle. And how could one ignore the little pink cousin, Georgia? All in all, it was a sweet, sweet time. Thanks, Nancy for letting us converge at your place again...

Whoopin' in up in Olice's Room or 'Hats R Us'

2007-11-21T04:09:00.000-08:00

Don't know if I published any of these 'behind the scenes' shots when the Counts' visited Dot and Ray at the Fisher's; that was a month or so ago. But I just love these three bigger boys!!

Soon Jack Greer will be participating bigtime - he's walking now and when Daniel saw him for the first time he exclaimed: "Mommy, Look at Jack Greer - he's one of us!"

Just 'cause I can't do anything but smile, don't forget about me!

2007-11-21T03:59:00.000-08:00

Red got to spend some time with Oma and Pops while his folks went on a date - he's the sweetest baby and takes a bottle so well. Naturally we had to have a photoshoot - check out the cheeks on this little man! His mom has cream, not milk! Oh, and let it be known that Red had his first visit to Home Depot with his Oma! (Sorry, Will!)

Time spent with Olice on Veteran's Day

2007-11-21T03:45:00.000-08:00

While Georgia slept, us two O's wandered into the nearby cemetary for a quick stroll. Naturally it would be too hard for a two year old to resist picking up a flag. He did put it back, though; this Oma made sure!

cousins playdates...

2007-11-15T12:12:00.000-08:00

while i've been on Maternity leave, Nancy and I have been enjoying once a week playdates. The last two have even included tea parties for us while the boys are napping. I say boys, because Georgia seems to know that a ladies tea party is going on and refuses to sleep. She would rather sit with us at the table and socialize. Mom even joined in for one playdate, which was real fun.

Anyway, this week we decided to venture out to one of our favorite cheap lunch spots: Taco Casa. Who says you can't get three carseats in the back seat of a Toyota Camry? Where there's a will there's a way. Here's a quick shot of the three babes riding to the Casa... with Olice refusing to look at the camera.

Our trip to Casa was quite interesting. When we arrived, we rounded up all three highchairs in the place and made a ridiculous little semi-circle with them around our table... i think all the other customers knew what was coming. We had arranged to meet two friends who are single and childless... for me they epitomize freedom that so quickly has become other-worldly to me now. We chit-chatted for about 20 minutes before all hell broke loose. The climax of our meal was when Georgia started to loose it (she is usually quite agreeable), Olice (who was covered in maccaroni and refried beans at this point) put refried beans in one of our friends' hair, and my lap suddenly got quite warm... and wet. RM decided to totally blow it out while i was feeding him a bottle. Might i add the restroom is a "onsie" without any changing facilities, and that i have poop all over my legs at this point? AWESOME. I think our friends are done with us for a while.

ps- Floyd calls me in the midst of this because he thought RM and I had been kidnapped. He arrived home for lunch expecting to find us there. i had left no note, my car at home, the dog tied up outside, the radio on, a full pot of maccaroni out on the counter, and toys thrown all about the house. He was in a full panic.

Halloween

2007-11-11T15:13:00.001-08:00

What can I say? Hysterical. I love these boys.
The baby Girl didn't have a costume this year...she could have been a sumo wrestler, couldn't she? On Halloween she went to the doctor and weighed in at 18.4. Her rolls are amazing.

More Playing with the Babes

2007-10-31T11:22:00.000-07:00

Thomas's one complaint at the lake: Too Much Baby Talk

2007-10-11T04:33:00.000-07:00

Here are the seven grands (not in order of appearance) followed by the four nursing (or pregnant) moms. Yes, Thomas, you are right - there was a lot of tending to babies all week. But as these kids get bigger, you'll have a basketball team to coach with two cheerleaders as well!! We're all wondering what Schelyn and Todd will be adding to the mix in April - another cheerleader or a basketball player. We'll let you know as soon as we know...

Jack Greer's birthday at the Baker Laker October, 2007

2007-10-10T16:26:00.000-07:00

These pictures may not be in perfect order but we think you can figure out the sequence. When this one year old finally gets a haircut, he'll probably look so much older all of a sudden. Oh to be so innocent!! He has no idea what it's going to be like with a younger brother or sister in April!!

This portion of the Baker's can't wait for W,D & R to join them at the lake

2007-10-03T11:10:00.000-07:00

Here are a few candids showing the first 15 of us. I know our daughters are so thankful to have husbands that help so much! None of us could survive the 'Baker Laker' without these guys - and Ken and Thomas, of course. It's been so much fun and we can't wait for the new baby and his folks to arrive to complete the picture. Thankfully we have a photographer arriving Friday night to help capture this happy gathering in one big group picture. Notice the specially designed shirts? And the one shot of Daniel's ball midair before it hit his dad in the head? Too many memories to remember or record.

Red leaves the hospital

2007-10-03T11:04:00.001-07:00

Ken and I feel so privileged that we were able to see Red in his 'going home' outfit and to experience again the thrill of the whole 'car seat' thing. There are some things in life that the manuals just aren't good enough for!! And then there are things like new babies that don't even come with instructions. Yikes!

Did we tell you we went to New Jersey last weekend?

2007-09-29T10:20:00.001-07:00

We found the 'rents in great spirits and Mom can get around so much better now - doesn't even use her cane most of the time! Bet she wishes she'd had that hip replaced 10 years ago! Anyway, as you can see, it was beautiful weather. The house and barn are in need of painting, though - wouldn't it be great to take a crew up there and get it done for them!? Mom was in her element cooking a birthday meal for her son (though we couldn't stay until the actual day!) It was a whirlwind of a trip but we're glad we went. Especially now that our little grandson decided to make his arrival early and all! What a month!! What a year actually. Sure hope things slow down a bit soon.

Most of the West Coasters Arrive

2007-09-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Bless George and Shirley for letting some Baker's over to get the cousins together! You can't tell by the pictures how tired everyone was from their flights! Won't the Baker Laker be so much fun starting Sunday?!! And S,T, and J-G will be in town then, too! But first, B&E - have fun with the Counts' at the beach and football game!!

Pops' Birthday

2007-09-29T08:49:00.001-07:00

Turning 60 isn't so bad when you have two swell daughters in town to cook a special birthday meal for you - and grands like Olice and Georgia to sing to you! Pops - you really are tops!

The Best News By Far

2007-09-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

Born on the one free day between his Aunt Erika's & Pops' birthdays and his Oma & Pops' anniversary, little Red arrived safe and sound with all systems functioning. Danielle and Will are so chuffed and enthralled with the whole idea of parenting and Bill and Kaye and Amy are experiencing the joys of first-time grandparent-/Aunt-hood!! I have no documentation on my camera but this Oma was very much there to meet our lovely seventh grandchild! Join us in praising God for His great goodness to these two families at this time! And be sure to check out Will & Danielle's blogspot for closeup shots of their blessed son when they find the time to post them!! www.evelynfloyd.blogspot.com

A couple more last Goodbyes

2007-09-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

Danielle and Nancy (our only in-town kids now) came over to say goodbye to the only home they have known and it was funny to see them pretending to sleep in the room that they shared with brother Thomas before the addition. They went around to every room and shared favorite memories - I didn't even know about some of them and am glad I didn't!!

Then, for my sentimental friend Dee, we took final pictures of the gate to the back door, the garage and the front door. Kind of gives a good closure - and we can't be sad because of what we have to look forward to.
More to come when the computer gets unpacked (I'm typing from a hotel room in New Jersey where Ken and I are staying so that we can visit Mom and Dad for the weekend!)

The Temporary Home

2007-09-22T06:07:00.000-07:00

Ken and I have all we need - in 'suite B' - to get by. We set up two smaller beds rather than our nice queen-size one (but we're really looking forward to one bed again in the new house!) Anyway, we are getting good sleep in these quarters and I believe Beau has already forgotten 101 Shady Creek Ct. and the yard, etc. Well, we hope so! Check out the bandaid on his tail - good timing for a bit of surgery, eh?

Packing with Friends is SO much More Fun!

2007-09-22T05:51:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally got the house packed up - thanks to Danielle & Nancy, Olice & Georgia, Jane, Dee, Lynda, Cheryl, Mike, Jared, Thomas, Will, Reid and too many to take pictures of!

Le Piano says Bonjour to its New Home

2007-09-11T12:28:00.000-07:00

Right click on the first photo to check out the date on this lovely old family member! The next shot shows that it was 'patented' in 1902. Though it was sold for $310 in 190_ (scratched out somehow!), I doubt that we could get much more than that for it today since technology has almost made these uprights obsolete. But there aren't too many in as good a shape as this one - thanks to John Barbour who refinished it just before we bought it some 20 or so years ago.

Anyway, Schelyn played this piano the most and would love to have it in her home one day (so would Erika and Danielle, for that matter) but for now we have let our dear next door neighbors use it. They know it is on loan indefinitely and we are so glad that it will again be played (our new home is a little short on wall space.)

Here's Mason and William already trying to do duets! Thanks, Kathe and Toby for offering to take care of'Marcellus' for us.

Danielle and Will's baby is really getting close!

2007-09-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight we were privileged to be invited to a wonderful shower for D&W's upcoming baby. The pictures that I took can be viewed by going to the following link:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=13554&l=22003&id=544953351

Karen, I was very impressed with your obvious gifts - of decorating and organization and hospitality. You said you were sorry that you didn't get invited to our recent Birthday Bingo party. Well, we're the ones who missed out - you would have added so much to OUR party! Next time for sure, Girl - and thanks SO much for all your hardwork and LOVE! (Theresa, too - that was some amazing food!)

Our Last Saturday in our Home

2007-09-08T19:35:00.001-07:00

This was the day that a lot of furniture pieces were distributed to two of our girls' homes. Thanks, Will and Reid for doing the lugging.

Will has always loved the sound of the ice cream truck and couldn't resist after a hard day of lifting.

Ken decided that he could have some fun even though, to HIM, the sound of the ice cream truck is the most annoying thing in the world.

Once more Ken's sense of humor prevailed. He might even like the sound of the ice cream truck after this crazy memory. (Will said it was worth the $3.00 that we scrounged together just for this picture!!)

For Anyone with a Birthday in September:

2007-09-07T17:31:00.000-07:00

Click to play | Make your own Smilebox

"Tour of Home" by Olice

2007-09-03T07:44:00.000-07:00

The above video says a lot but if you want to see pictures taken yesterday at the new house, check out the following as well:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=12970&l=8c746&id=544953351

Time to go pack this house up now...

Luv ya' - M (&K)

Olice is Two Now!

2007-08-29T11:52:00.001-07:00

Oh, Olice, I sure do love your new green grocery store ball - want to play catch?

Oh, Georgia, you can't do much of anything - but I love you anyway!
And I sure love my Auntie Dan Dan!

Uncle Will sang me Happy Birthday - he plays the guitar, you know!

I just LOVE looking over Oma and Pops' wine supply - wonder what I should choose for my birthday dinner?

See, Olice - I can do something - I can smile for your birthday!

Georgia & Olice are growing and T moved out (a few times)

2007-08-21T13:04:00.001-07:00

Counts Siblings

2007-08-12T15:12:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure if y'all knew, but Kelly and Lauren came out to visit 2 weeks ago! We had such a great time with them. Too bad the whole families couldn't come. It was fun having Spencer, but we missed Peter and Elizabeth and of course Kyle and Charlie. Maybe next time. :)

Shin took this picture of the three of them at Palmer Park and we gave it to Mom C. for her birthday yesterday. When Kelly went to pick up the pictures at Wal Mart, the photo tech almost wouldn't let her have them without copyright authorization! Shin is getting to be quite the professional.

Olice and the Orchestra

2007-08-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

well, not really an orchestra, but Olice was trying his hand at Uncle Will's piano when he was over a couple of weeks ago. It was pretty cute to hear and watch him plink-a-plink on the keys.

Thomas is in Washington State!

2007-08-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

I don't know where these beautiful pictures were taken, but Thomas has these and much more posted to his facebook account. He just called me and said they're staying in an abandoned cabin at the moment, but hitch-hiking back to Seattle tomorrow... CRAZY kiddo. Say a prayer for him :)

Oma's Pics are a little different - still no outside shots, though

2007-07-21T18:58:00.001-07:00

Well, Guys, I was getting ready to post pictures of Nancy's house when I saw that Danielle already had. Knowing that there had been some changes since those early pics, though, I went ahead and blogged these most recent ones. Notice that both Olice and Georgia now have roman shades at their windows. They are still not done and I don't mind telling you they've been a real pain to make. A true labor of love, I guess.

As you all can tell, the REAL labor has been done by Nancy and Reid and their friends and family - it has paid off, for sure.
By the way, Georgia's cradle is in the corner of the master bedroom for now (to the left of the full length mirror you see from the bathroom) but she mostly sleeps in her own room - often for many hours at a time!! I bet she likes that one purple wall - I sure find it soothing!

Also, notice the light over the kitchen sink and the laundry room plus the cabinets on either side of the fireplace - they weren't set up when Dan had her camera that fun-filled night not so long ago!!

Nancy, you may not think you have much time in each day but you ARE making progress and making this little dream house a very comfortable home for your growing family. I'd better take some shots of the outside next, eh, Erika?

207 Drace Avenue, Home of the Fisher Clan

2007-07-17T11:57:00.000-07:00

Here are the upstairs pictures. When you look down the hall, the front of the house is to the left, and the rear to your right. Georgia's room is first on the left, then Olice's. The door at the end of the hall is the continued construction zone, soon to be a hall bathroom. On the right side is first the main/master bathroom, the linen closet, and finally, the master bedroom tucked in the corner. Nancy picked out some really fun colors for the rooms, and it all has come together beautifully!

207 Drace Avenue, Home of the Fisher Clan

2007-07-17T11:49:00.000-07:00

Sorry Erika that it took me so long to post these... i totally intended to do it the next day, but low and behold, Georgia made her debut and i completely forgot that you hadn't seen the house! These first pictures are of the main level. The garage is "downstairs" and the hall and bedrooms/bathrooms are upstairs. These were all taken on June 12th, about three hours before Nancy's water broke :) Needless to say, we need some more current pictures to reflect all the work that was done after that pivotal moment!

Visiting Oma

2007-07-14T03:38:00.001-07:00

You can tell I was getting a bit nostalgic with my picture taking. I was snapping Olice in the garden because in two weeks there should be a 'For Sale' sign in the yard!! Yikes!

Anyway, when Nancy's car arrived in the driveway, 'Aunt' Jane naturally came over to see her adopted neice and nephew - there's nothing like a good friend, is there? By the way, Georgia Louise is getting cuter by the minute, as you can probably tell!

Leaving the kids with Aunt Jane and I, Nancy got to go to lunch with her husband! While she was away, this naughty Oma let Olice feed - and KISS - the forbidden dog! As you can see, Beau has become very much more tolerant in his old age. Maybe it's because Olice is quite a respectful little boy.
Anyway, Erika and Bryan, I bet you're still glad you don't have Beau at your house, right? Those babies of yours are enough to take care of!!

just for a laugh

2007-07-13T12:44:00.000-07:00

This is the first chance I've gotten on a computer since Georgia was born. Can't believe I still know how to type...On opening mom's picture files, I realized there are some very funny pictures in here. I have know idea why they haven't been blogged.
I guess I don't have to tell you that I don't remember this picture being taken. Yeah for morphine. hehe

A picture of Reid with the cookie that Susannah and Becca brought for Olice.

And here, a picture of sweetness. Oh these moments make the chaos it.
Nancy

Ikea...

2007-07-06T10:30:00.000-07:00

I never got to post these for Erika & Schelynny-Bin, but girls, here it is: Nancy and I's initial approach and descent upon IKEA, the week before Georgia was born. Upon initial entry, we surveyed the cafe and selected ice cream and sticky buns for breakfast. After close examination of the display floor, we deliberated over chicken fingers and french fries. And finally, we made our descent to the warehouse floor to make our final selections and purchases. Final time? 5 HOURS. But these two pregos had one fabulous time, that's for sure!

Thomas turned 21 today!!

2007-07-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

Presents, Balloons, Cake, Family, Cards - and a celebratory beer at breakfast! This boy has had a jolly good send off - in a month he will be in his own apartment!!

If you don't laugh...

2007-06-24T17:43:00.001-07:00

You'll cry, right? I think I'll just eat ice cream...and cry later. :)
No really, I'm doing great. I haven't cried in weeks. Life is crazy, but it's fun. Having Nana's hands here REALLY helps. I'll probably cry when she leaves just like I did when mom left.

We went to the zoo for a friend's birthday and had a great time. G money and Heavy D loved the animals we saw (I think we only made it about a quarter of the way around the place) and Baby Caroline slept the whole time. We picnicked under a covered area because it looked like a storm was coming, and it did, right as we finished our lunch. SO...everyone else who was at the zoo that day joined us for our picnic. Fortunately, we had the seats. :)

Here are some shots from our day:

See the light in his eyes? The boy loves ice cream even when he is exhausted. Don't even try to take it away to help him wipe it off...it's better in the long run to have the stuff running down his fat arms. Pick your battles, right?

Don't let the look on his face throw you. This boy loves ice cream too, he just can't hide it when he's exhausted.

I think this is at the giraffe exhibit. The boys weren't crazy about feeding them, but they both tried. The long black tongues freaked them out. :)

Heavy D and his friend Natalie riding the zoo train. This was the highlight of the day for all children involved.

No, I'm not eating TWO ice cream cones. (But I wanted to.) Caroline is in this picture...fyi. I gotta say, I'm getting good at multi-tasking. :)

Olice loves balls of all sizes!

2007-06-19T19:39:00.000-07:00

especially the kind you can pick and eat in Oma's garden!!

Georgia's already growing cuter!

2007-06-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

Introducing: Georgia Louise Fisher

2007-06-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

Baby Girl Fisher has arrived...

2007-06-13T14:27:00.000-07:00

She may have been "Scheduled" to arrive tomorrow, but Little Miss Fisher has a bit of a pistol streak already, and she decided that her birthday was going to be June 13th. Last night (the 12th), much to Nancy & Reid's surprise, baby girl decided it was time to make her debut. Fortunately they made it to the hospital in time for the doctors to help her along and she arrived shortly after midnight.

sleeping soundly...

after lunch...

with her mom and dad

Scheduled to come into the world

2007-06-04T04:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I rescheduled my C Section date. I think most of you know, but mom told me to blog the information. Now we are scheduled to have our baby girl on June 14th in an effort to have a few more days to unpack seeing as how we are not yet in our house:) Won't be long!!
Nancy

It's About Time I Had a Say - Caroline

2007-06-03T19:19:00.000-07:00

As you can tell, Mommy and I got to come home the other day. My brothers were delighted, to say the least, and Garrison in particular wanted to know all about our matching hospital bracelets and to see Mommy's tummy where I hung out for SO long!!

Garrison is so much happier than when his little brother came home from the hospital. But Daniel isn't sure he cares if I'm here or not; he's happy as long as he gets fed and watered regularly. Come to think of it - that's one of my top priorities, too. But every once in a while he gives my strawberry blond curls a tender whop or he investigates the holes in my ears or nose. You wait, Brother!

On the same day that I came home, my Pops arrived from the airport to see me (from South Carolina!) My brothers showed him my room - with the painting that Garrison did for me - and their own new room as well. They have this cool fake fish tank thing that I'm sure I'll enjoy a lot one day. Right now I'm all about sleeping - that was a hard delivery, you know. It's not easy coming out face up - and then having to have your tongue clipped so that you can eat properly. Quite stressful really. But my mom handles everything so well!
Like having Traveler come to spend the night. Todd and Schelyn were both going to be away so my Mom said it'd be OK. She knows that our Dixie likes to have her friend over - especially when Oma plays ball in the backyard with both of them. Did I tell you that G & D gave me this cute little pink pig? (Of course we all got presents from Pops, too). It may look like I'm about the same size as this soft critter but I've got it outweighed, let me tell you!

Anyway, it wasn't long before Todd and Jack Greer came by to see me and to pick up their dog. And then late the next day Auntie Schelyn stopped by on her way home from the airport. Can you believe she'd come to see me before picking up her own little boy from the baby sitter's (Todd had to go back to work - it's a complicated story - I'll tell you one day)! Anyway, I feel really loved.

That's all I have to say for now! But I'm sure my mom will keep everyone updated either here or on her spot: erikacounts.blogspot.com. Check it out. And I can't wait to see what my Aunt Nancy and Uncle Reid's little girl is going to look like. She and I will be having tea parties with Oma one day, I know!

I'll get to meet little Miss Fisher and all the others from South Carolina in early October at the 'Baker Laker' week. Think of the pictures we'll get then!!
Thanks for listening - I think I'll go back to sleep now. After a little more milk and maybe a new diaper. I feel like such a princess already.

Well, sort of:

A Very Important Visit to the Hospital for Two Big Brothers

2007-06-01T21:05:00.000-07:00

This brand new hospital has a great view of Pike's Peak but I didn't want to move the kids for a better angle!

Caroline looks so very little and helpless next to G & D.

I bet these boys will do a great job of protecting their little sister in future but for the moment they were more interested in what was under her wrappings. Of course G & D got to unwrap a couple of gifts and Garrison immediately started writing his letters - in particular: Caroline's initials. (Keep in mind that this boy just turned three years old four months ago; spoken like a typically proud Oma, eh?)

Caroline's mommy is a little worried that she'll grow up to be a tomboy so she's going to put her in a lot of pink 'til then.

And Daddy doesn't mind what his little princess wants to wear!

A Very Special 'Birth'day! -a note from Oma

2007-06-01T06:04:00.001-07:00

I promised some details and here they are: Caroline Ashleigh Counts was born on May 31st, 2007 at 12:49 PM - six pounds/10 ounces and 20 inches long. Now for a little story on her first day of life!

Big brothers, Garrison and Daniel have had quite a bit of practice with babies (since cousin Jack Greer is only 8 months old right now and they have Peter and Spencer on the other side of the family). But we all know that it'll be a different story when a baby actually moves into their house with them! (They've already had to give up one of their rooms for her! But that'll be OK since they have bunk beds to look forward to!)

Thankfully, a lot of fun and exciting things happen when a new baby comes into the world. On this particular morning (before Little Sister's arrival), I presented the big brothers with some really cool toys (at least I hoped they'd think so): a kaleidoscope with Thomas the train decorations on the outside, and a car that pops when you roll it.
Naturally, smart little copy-cat Daniel thought that he should use his toy the same way that his big brother did his.
Fortunately for me, these toys proved to be a bigger hit than even I'd guessed - and helped to fill quite a few blocks of time in the day (in between watching Elmo, playing in the sandbox, napping, playing with rocks, eating a few meals and enduring bathtime!)
Anyway, after naptime, since we knew that 'Baby Sister' was finally here, G & D celebrated with pink popsicles that Garrison had helped make the day before.
We weren't even finished our treats when Mommy and Daddy called from the hospital and told us her name: Caroline Ashleigh!!

Then it was time to put the pink ribbon on the mailbox and greet a few well-wishing neighbors. The boys were euphoric about her arrival, or just about life in general, and as they spun around the lamp post in the front yard, we made up a new song (Uncle Will will appreciate this):

Ring around the rosies,
Caroline likes posies
Ashleigh, Ashleigh,
we all fall down!

At last Bryan returned home from the hospital (very sweet of him to take over bedtime duties) in order that I could go the hospital all by myself! Spending time with our own first daughter, and holding our first little grand daughter was a pleasure 'beyond all praising', to quote the words from my favorite hymn.
Caroline, you are so beautiful (of course) and your little face really reminds me of Erika's 30 years ago. We'll have to pull out her baby pictures today - I bet Garrison will really like that.

But this is only the beginning of the story, of course. Caroline, your little brothers are coming for a visit today - you're going to meet the rest of the most important people in your life!

Pops, when you fly out here on Saturday, would you please bring an infant-sized hard-hat or football helmet please?

With love to all the Baker's (and Counts')
from Oma Marijke
(in sunny, dry Colorado)

Little Miss Counts Has Arrived

2007-05-31T13:12:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry but I have no pictures and not much news, either. Erika just called from the hospital to tell me that their little girl is here; I didn't even get to hear the weight or time of arrival or ANYTHING when she told me she had to get a shot and would call me right back. In the meantime, I've put the pink bow on the mailbox and I'm waiting - just like all of you - to find out more info. (I DO know her name but I'm not sharing until she says it's OK to do so!) Pictures will surely follow, too. Be patient a little longer. At least you know her birthday will ever always be May 31st!! - Expectantly, Oma Marijke

Prego Erika

2007-05-30T12:37:00.001-07:00

This is for you, Nancy and Danni...I wouldn't have done it if you hadn't challenged me. :)
love ya'll!!!!

Baby Girl Fisher documented...

2007-05-25T07:06:00.000-07:00

She's not scheduled to make her debut until June 11th... hopefully Nancy can wait that long... See Erika, now that we posted our two, you need to pony up with a picture!

The Third Trimester

2007-05-17T19:42:00.000-07:00

So when I had Olice at 31 weeks, I obviously missed out on any third trimester fun. I had no idea what I was missing. The third trimester is a freaky time. Yesterday I felt like I was walking on a float because my ankle and foot were so swollen. Imagine walking on a swimmie. Doesn't sound fun does it? My balance is also a little off which makes me want to walk a little slow just to be careful. I have also taken up waddling. It isn't intentional. It's just that, my belly is so heavy and full of water that it swings side to side(much like a pony tail does as you walk) and in turn, swings my whole body.

Schelijn and I were walking into target yesterday, and I looked over at another couple about fifteen feet away(also entering the store). Just as I look over at them, I catch her rude husband point at me and say, "Hey, look at that." That's right, people are pointing me out in awe at my enormous belly. Kinda makes me feel like I'm a freak show. Oh well, I'll still wear it proud. They say a camera adds ten pounds. In the case of these pictures, let's say about 30 pounds;)

Compliments from Olice

2007-05-10T07:09:00.000-07:00

Olice and I were at the grocery store the other day. We were in the card aisle when Olice started pointing towards a row of cards and saying, "mama, mama". Not knowing what to expect, I looked to see what reminded him of his mama on one of those cards. The only human face in the general vicinity of where he was pointing was, get this, the one only Barbie. Obviously this was a very flattering thing for a 34 week pregnant mommy to hear. So thanks Olice, and yes, I have been known to dress up like Barbie.

Happy 8th Anniversary Todd & Shinny!

2007-05-08T20:04:00.000-07:00

Today the Flippins celebrate their eigth anniversary. In South Carolina, hurrah! I hope it was a good one guys. At any rate, since you are celebrating 8 years on the 8th of the month, does that make it a golden anniversary? Or do you still have to wait until 50? Hmmm....

Just so you know - this 'Oma' is like Ernie

2007-04-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

You Are Ernie

Playful and childlike, you are everyone's favorite friend - even if your goofy antics get annoying at times.

You are usually feeling: Amused - you are very easily entertained

You are famous for: Always making people smile. From your silly songs to your wild pranks, you keep things fun.

How you life your life: With ease. Life is only difficult when your friends won't play with you!

The Sesame Street Personality Quiz

Outside Fun @101

2007-04-26T15:48:00.000-07:00

After Olice finally learned to walk, he discovered how much he loved the great outdoors. Bringing him inside from playing outside is literally a knock down drag out fight.

Yesterday we had such a fun day playing outside with the hose water, balls, dirt, frogs, and whatever else struck Olice's fancy. About the frog, though. Olice saw it hopping around and thought it was neat so he held his little cup down by it (we told him to give it some water). The frog jumped in his cup. Once he realized it was in there, he reached in to pick it up. The feel of that squirming frog in his pinchers was enough to freak him totally out. He screamed and threw the frog. He was really scared, and I tried so hard not to laugh.
Highlight of his day after all this fun: pooping in the tub. I'm sure it had to feel much better than going in a diaper, but come on! This totally freaked me out, and I screamed and jerked him up out of the tub. He stayed pretty calm other than the fact that he was mad he had to get out of the tub. I have no pictures of the frog or the poop. You are probably glad for that.

2007-04-24T06:21:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know (read more in evelynfloyd.blogspot.com), Danielle rose to the occassion and created a beautiful Easter meal for the Baker's and friends. We had three Somers there (Dot, Ray, Kenny) and three Baker's (Ken, Marijke & Thomas) as well as three Gibbs (Will, Amy, Danielle) - well, four if you count Jim.

We feasted on the best lamb that I've ever eaten (marinated by our wonderful host, Will) with roast potatoes and beautifully cooked green beans. Afterwards we had outstanding coffee and berry pie. All too wonderful for words so I'll stop right now.

Except to say that Thomas was having issues with his pants being a little too short. Shouldn't grow so much, we say.

Nancy, Reid and Olice couldn't make it and Erika and Schelyn were making their own Easter's in Colorado naturally. I guess holidays may not be the time for mass gatherings anymore - but we're looking forward to some time together in late September/early October. Bet there'll be lots of cameras present!! Hope so.

A "Sib-la-roo"

2007-04-05T11:44:00.000-07:00

The east coast siblings had a "sib-la-roo" in the park today. Nancy didn't provide me with a Webster's definition of the term, but based on our experience today, i can safely say it is one heck of a good time had by all, usually sisters and brothers. Here are some pics documenting our lovely picnic in Falls Park in downtown Greenville today:

Uncle Thomas and Olice sharing conversation and lunch...

Olice gazing in wonderment at all of the activity bustling around us...

His favorite thing to watch: the volleyball players in front of us...

Can you count all five of us in this picture? (hint, two are hiding in our bellies...)

Olice trying to get in on the action in the baseball game also going on in the park:

neglected blog?

2007-04-04T08:59:00.000-07:00

I realized recently that the bakercrowd spot has been a little neglected recently. And then i discovered that some folks didn't know that Tootie and Pudzy had eached branched off to create little individual blogs... so just incase you are looking for bakercrowd updates... some of them have been placed here:

Evelyn & Floyd: http://evelynfloyd.blogspot.com

Tootie's Tales: http://tootietales.blogspot.com

Olice's playdate

2007-04-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

About a week and a half ago Olice and I went to my friend, Frances' house. She has two girls, Lucy and Bella. Lucy is about 2 months younger than Olice, and Bella is 2 months old. Anyway, in the Mitchell Road nursery is where Lucy and Olice's friendship has blossomed. Every time Reid or I come to get him and as soon as we drop him off each time, they are together. We tease him about it some:)

Got Another Blogspot Going!

2007-03-09T01:42:00.000-08:00

Because we've had such a burden to teach little girls to crochet, Cheryl Foster and I have started with 5 new little ladies - and something else to spur them on: their very own blogspot!
www.halfknits.blogspot.com

So far I've only put one 'event' on there but watch this spot for some neat stuff!! Between the two of us grandmothers, we can keep up with this bunch and each other. What a joy!

These sweaters are for the Guideposts Sweater Program and will go to needy children in orphanages around the world. They were made by the last group of stitchers (our graduates?) and I admit they are not perfect but they are all complete!! Our newest girls (the beginners) are working on preemie hats for the hospital - also a worthwhile cause and a good use of idle hours!!

If you have a finished project that you have done, take a picture and send it. If it's worth stitching, it's worth blogging!! And don't throw away any of those bits of yarn either - we could use it!!

Happily Stitching - Oma Marijke

What to do at the office on a VERY slow Friday???

2007-03-02T14:00:00.000-08:00

Well, sometimes it is fun to stage a meeting just to pretend to yourself and others that you are busy. Today, William G. Bragdon of our adjacent office, A.G. Edwards came over to sit down with Danielle Gibbs and discuss some serious federal funding issues on his mind...

Okay, so really we just sit around and shoot the breeze on Friday afternoons... but i think I'm going to sneak outta here a little early now!

"Dita!"

2007-03-02T13:55:00.000-08:00

These days, when you ask Mr. Olice to tell you his name, he emphatically points to his chest and says, "Dita!". Should you then say, "No, I think your name is Olice," it is likely that he will grin at you again and say "Dita!" again.

Another fun thing to watch is Dita saying "An-yan" (translated, All Done) over and over to express that he would like to get down from the table. Only, An Yan doesn't really mean that he is all done. In fact, today he said An Yan over and over between shoving fist fulls of raisins into his mouth. Pretty cute.

Chick-fil-A in Colorado

2007-02-28T18:29:00.000-08:00

Erika, here are the pictures of our little farewell party at chickfila. Love you

-Thomas

"...every ski lift in the world!"

2007-02-28T17:42:00.000-08:00

A few pictures from a fun day of skiing with Bryan & Todd...only we missed Will & Reid.

-Thomas