Best Birthday Ever....Part 2

I had a very specific birthday request this year, I wanted fried calamari. The closest and best place to get that is Cinzetti's Italian Buffet in Overland Park, KS. All day, I looked forward to eating calamari. We drove to Cinzetti's only to discover a sign on their door that said they were closed due to the bad weather. Well, at 5pm today there was NO bad weather. There was nothing falling from the sky. NOTHING! So why did they close? What a terrible way to run a restaurant. I would understand if there was ice or lots of snow on the ground but there was neither. So, no calamari for me! Instead, I chose to go to eat Chinese at Fire Wok. Fire Wok is a small family operated restaurant and they were open! So a big thumbs down to Cinzetti's, I will never eat at your restaurant ever again! We had a great dinner at Fire Wok, and then we went home to open my presents.

For my birthday I got some video games that I wanted, the Flat Stanley book series, electric guitar lessons, and I got the home and away Kansas City Wizards Jersey's. I do not like birthday cake. Every year, Mom makes me dump cake instead. The best gift of all came about 8:30pm, we got a text that school is cancelled tomorrow!


Marshall

Best Birthday Ever...part 1

I love to celebrate my birthday. Tonight was awesome. My Grandma Pat and Pappa John gave me my birthday present. I got an electric guitar and amp! I was so surprised when I got it. I immediately opened the box, tuned it, and started to play. I'm not very good, but I know that with practice I will get better. I think that I look really cool playing my guitar. The louder the better, you know?

The second surprise that my grandparents had for me was taking me to the Comets' game. We ate hot dogs, nachos, and had Sierra Mist to drink. This was my first time to see a soccer game inside. I was shocked at how fast and exciting the game was. At one point the ball flew out of bounds and landed right by me. Even though the Comets lost, I still want to go again. Mom & Dad, how about season tickets next year?

Marshall

The REAL State of the Union

Memo to the President:

Time to wake up to what reality really is!

1. Gas prices are $3 a gallon. When you took office it was around $1.78/gallon. That was not the change I voted for.


2. You said last night that you do not want the tax cuts for the rich to be permanent. Well...you were the one who made a deal with the devil to extend the cuts in the first place. Now you have second thoughts? You should have ended them when you had the chance!


3. EDUCATION...You want the US to compete with China. Really??? How??? Federal stimulus money for schools is expiring. The new proposed Kansas budget reflects that school districts stand to lose $107 million next year and $85 million the year after. Also, base state aid to public schools could drop by $232 a student, nearly 6 percent. School districts are in a total free-fall. Schools are being closed, class sizes are increasing to potentially 30 kids in a class, and teaching positions are being eliminated. So your "I want our students to compete" talk is just that....TALK!


4. JOBS JOBS JOBS...last month the unemployment rate went up in 20 states. A year-over year 0.6 percent decrease in employment put Missouri third-worst among states in percentage job loss last year. Missouri's jobless rate was 9.5% last year. How about putting Americans back to work? Jobs that disappeared in the Bush era are not coming back. Americans are still out of work! Companies still receive tax benefits for jobs that are OVERSEAS. Here is a crazy idea....put Americans to work and see how the economy responds.


5. Health care is still unaffordable, still unavailable, and still being run by the big drug companies. You have done NOTHING to combat this issue. Your health care bill is worthless and does nothing to control out of pocket costs to Americans.


So, on the issues, the real issues, you have done NOTHING! Zero, zilch, nadda!


Sterling

3 for 3

All 3 kids went with Dad, Daddy, or Dadda first.

Sterling

Crock Pot Creamy Potato Soup

I experimented and finally perfected my Creamy Potato Soup Recipe. Reheats very well.

Crock Pot Creamy Potato Soup
Ingredients
1 onion, finely chopped
2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed chicken broth
2 cups water
5 large potatoes, diced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups half-and-half cream
1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
1-2 cups cheddar cheese
6 slices bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces (added immediately before serving)


Directions

1. Add onion to slow cooker, stir in chicken broth, water, potatoes, salt, dill weed, and white pepper. Cover, and cook on Low 6 to 7 hours, stirring occasionally.
2.In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and half-and-half. Stir into the soup along with the evaporated milk and 1 cup cheddar cheese. Cover, and cook another 30 minutes before serving.


**When serving I added chives, cracked black pepper, small bacon pieces, and more cheddar cheese to each bowl.**

I also enjoyed a few red pepper flakes in my bowl.

Enjoy!

Sterling

Time flies...

I was cleaning/organizing my external hard drive this morning and found myself looking at old pictures of the kids. Where does the time go? Wow!



Sterling

Regress, Stay Stagnant, or Evolve...

As human beings, we have a choice as to how we are going to live our lives.

Regress...We return to making the same decisions, mistakes, and actions that we have made in the past.

Stay Stagnant...We continue on the current path that we are on and do nothing to better ourselves, our relationships, and our lives. The status quo is clearly acceptable.

Evolve...We constantly grow, learn, and change. If we as a people are truly evolving we learn from our past mistakes and set out to not repeat them. It does not mean that we will not make new mistakes, it simply means we are not as apt to repeat the past ones.

Sometimes, the people that are in your life help to influence the decisions and actions which decide whether you regress, stay stagnant, or evolve. These people could be parents, friends, co-workers, a spouse, and etc. I have discovered that in my own life, in order to evolve I have had to say goodbye to people that had once played a big part in my life. I came to the realization that I have to be more than just an option.

I deserved more, needed more, and ultimately demanded more.


Simply put...I choose to evolve! I want to be a better man, father, and husband. I now surround myself with people that truly care about me, my goals, and my life. If I can evolve as a person, learn from the past, and be the man that I am capable of being, then I can say with no reservations that I serve a purpose on this planet. I refuse to take up space, serve no purpose, and contribute nothing to society. The world has enough of those kinds of people!

Sterling

I'm sick...

Today, I was sick and stayed home from school. My dad took care of me. He made sure that I rested and had a lot to drink. My stomach was hurting, and I was sick. Dad made me "sleeping bags" for lunch. We cuddled on the couch together and watched Glee. I love Glee because they sing and dance. I take dance classes and love to sing. My favorite Glee episode is the episode with the Lada GaGa song Bad Romance. My second favorite is when they sang Sweet Caroline. I am a gleek and so is my dad. He is always singing and dancing.
I am starting to feel better and that makes me happy because I hate missing school. School is so much fun.


Sydney

Moo, Baa, La La La La!

Moriah likes when I read the book Moo, Baa, La La La La to her. She laughs and points at the pictures. Moo, Baa, La La La La was my favorite book when I was little. Mom and Dad read this book to me over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over. I love reading to my sisters.

Marshall

Snow Day

SNOW DAY! SNOW DAY! SNOW DAY! This is the chant that is recited when school is cancelled due to snow. The kids cleaned their rooms, wolfed down breakfast, and were outside sledding in record time this morning. Moriah sat in her Bumbo and watched the snow fall. Marshall and Sydney were busy taking turns sledding down the hill. Snow days are celebrated in our house and we are all hoping to celebrate again tommorrow morning.

The Turtle Garbage Plate

I can cook! I love to cook, always have. Everything that I make has my own unique flair. Whether it be a cheese-ball, cheesy potatoes, house burgers, pancakes, baked ziti, enchilada's, soups, and etc it all has my own personal touch. I am a firm believer in trial and error to reach perfection. Where is the fun in following a recipe? I make each item my own. Which leads us to my Garbage Plate...

The simplest way to describe my Garbage Plate is that you take eggs (scrambled), and add anything else that you might have in your fridge. I love to have breakfast for dinner. Eggs are an easy meal that with very little effort can be jazzed up to go from ordinary to "eggstraordinary". Sorry, that was corny but it fit pretty well!

I have experimented with numerous ingredients. To date my most unique Garbage Plate consisted of eggs, cheese, and leftover Stove Top stuffing. Yes, stuffing! It was delicious. Imagine the confused looks that I got when I put that on the table, but as always the plates were returned to me empty after the meal. I will happily continue to cook, experiment, try new things, and have fun in my kitchen.

Sterling

Playoffs?.....Good luck!

The Kansas City Chiefs are in the playoffs........WHO CARES?

Does anyone truly believe that the Chiefs are going to do anything in the playoffs? The 1990's burned me out on getting excited for playoff games. I expect them to do what they have done the last 17 years. NOTHING! The Chiefs no-showed today versus the Raiders. Next week will be the same result. So good luck Matt Cassel, maybe you will remember you are an NFL quarterback. Good luck offensive line, there is a game next week might wanna show up. Good luck defense, you gave up 350 yards and 31 points to the Raiders with Jason Campbell as their QB, I'm sure you will have it fixed by next week.

So to all of you fans who purchased playoff tickets ranging from $47-$147 enjoy the game. I know what to expect...but apparently some of you have forgotten that it may be "The New Arrowhead" but the same ol' Chiefs play there!

525,600 minutes

Year in Review

Fire Wok in Mission

Our family has a favorite Chinese restaurant. We love Fire Wok. Fire Wok is located in Mission,KS and offers a super buffet for lunch & dinner. The kids love their crab Rangoon and lo mein. Shauna and I enjoy the numerous chicken choices that the buffet offers. Fire Wok keeps their food hot and fresh. Nothing that they serve is old or been sitting out for hours like most other Chinese establishments. The staff is constantly replenishing the items so the food is served piping hot. Fire Wok supplies Coke products which is another huge plus for us. After, we have gotten our fill of Chinese we all partake in the Belfonte ice cream. They usually have 3 choices and you scoop your own from 10 gallon tubs. (I love the Mint Chocolate Chip) MMMMMMMMMM!

Our family would highly recommend Fire Wok to anyone that is searching for high quality and reasonably priced Chinese food. The atmosphere is fun and the staff is very friendly. We are so happy to have added this to our rotation of places where we dine.

www.firewokmission.com

Fire Wok Restaurant
5818 Johnson Dr., Mission, KS
913-543-3256

Sterling

Presents, Grit, Food, and Kobe....

We had a wonderful Christmas this year at the Hammett house. Marshall woke up and discovered that Santa had brought him a hamster, which he promptly named Astro. Moriah got sock animals, stacking cups, and building blocks. Santa got Sydney 4 hamsters, but hers were the toy Zhu Zhu kind. Sydney spent most of the morning playing with her hamsters and the princess castle, ballroom, and carriage that went with them. We exchanged gifts with each other and had a great time trying to guess what we were about to open. Every year, we buy each other movies and then spend the week after Christmas watching them as a family. This year was no different. I got The Expendables, Get him to the Greek, Family Guy Volume 8, and Eastbound & Down. Shauna got The Blindside, Modern Family Season 1, and the Sarah Connor Chronicles Season 1&2. Marshall received The Karate Kid, Avatar, and Despicable Me. Sydney loved opening up Toy Story 3, and Barbie Christmas Carol.

After the craziness of opening presents had died down, we went to see True Grit at the movie theater. Seeing movies on Christmas day is a tradition that Shauna and I used to have before we had kids. It was nice to get out of the house and relax in the comfy theater seats.

Even though our day was half over, we still had much to do. We told Marshall that we could have our meal and watch his precious Lakers & Kobe while we ate. Our Christmas meal consisted of ham, Turtle Mac & Cheese, green bean casserole, Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, peach vodka & Sprite (for the adults), and dump cake for dessert.

With the kids put to bed, Shauna and I snuggled up on the sectional to watch one of our new movies.

We reflected on our day, the addition of Moriah to our family, and how the best gift we received was the quality, "happy family" time that we all enjoyed today.

I truly have everything that I could ever want or need inside these four walls.
Sterling

It's good to be King...

For Christmas this year, I bought Shauna a new bed and mattress. We had been discussing for awhile moving from a queen to a king. After much discussion and research we decided to purchase a 12" memory foam mattress. Of course, a new size bed meant new sheets, new comforter, and new mattress pad.

For the record, we do not intend on regularly using the extra space that the king provides. Shauna and I barely used the entire queen. We always seem to "spoon" or curl up together. In college, we managed to find a way to cuddle & spoon on a twin. Our first mattress when we got married was a full and that did just fine. In 1999 we upgraded to a queen and had plenty of space for us. Occasionally, we have a family movie night in our bed. We invite the kids to bring blankets and join us, that's when it got too crowded. The king will be perfect!

Shauna loves the new bed....so bottom line...MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

Sterling

Family?

Dictionary.com defines family as...

1. a. a basic social unit consisting of parents and their children, considered as a group, whether dwelling together or not: the traditional family.
b. a social unit consisting of one or more adults together with the children they care for: a single-parent family.
2. the children of one person or one couple collectively
3. the spouse and children of one person
4. any group of persons closely related by blood, as parents, children, uncles, aunts, and cousins
5. a group of persons who form a household under one head, including parents, children, and servants.

A family can be and should be much more than that! Families spend time together. Families love each other, support one another, and much more. How can you be a family if you do not spend time together? I am not saying that a couple should not spend time alone. If anything, Shauna and I went through a stretch of time where we did not take enough time for just the two of us. We were so focused on being a family and teaching/showing the importance of family; we let our marriage take a backseat. There is a fine line between having some "couple time" and constantly dropping your child at a babysitter so that you can take trips, attend events, and etc. It would seem to me that finding the balance between "couple time" and family time is the key to a well rounded family.

I believe that quite frequently people have children because that is what they think they should do. Some people have no desire to be parents, real parents. See...a parent should provide more than just a roof, food, and etc. A parent has a responsibility to make memories, teach, love, support, discipline, and instill values in their child. Being a parent means sometimes not doing what you want but doing what your child wants or what is in their best interest. There is no place for selfishness in a family. You can not play parent when it is convenient to you! Should you really be a half-ass guardian of a child? You either are totally committed to raising and shaping that young person or you aren't; there is no in between. It is pretty cut and dried.

I am disgusted by people who pretend to be "parents" and portray a family when they are the furthest thing from it. Having the financial means to be a parent does not necessarily mean that you should be. I am a part of a FAMILY! My family makes memories, has traditions, and Shauna and I truly enjoy spending time with our kids. My heart goes out to the children who know no true "parents". Guardians who, by their own choice, will not put up a tree, establish Christmas traditions, or be at home for Christmas. Christmas morning their child will not wake up at home and see presents from Santa.

As much as I might like to, I cannot save or change the world...I am fully aware of this. All I can do is continue to take care of my family. I will strive to be the best husband and father that I can be. I will not always succeed but can guarantee that I am and will remain dedicated to being a "real" parent! My kids deserve and expect nothing less.

This Christmas as you celebrate with your family and hopefully make memories, remember those children who are not as fortunate. On paper, it may look like those children are better off being with their current guardians, but are they?

Is he?

Absolutely NOT!


Sterling

Coming soon...

Year In Review video coming 12/31/10.

Join us for a look back at some of the memories our family made during 2010.

Stay tuned!

Sterling

My life has a soundtrack...

My life has a soundtrack! I am very versatile when it comes to the kinds of music that I listen to. Certain moods call for certain genres. Some songs I enjoy due to their great rhythm, other songs speak to me through lyrics. Occasionally, a song comes along that has a perfect beat, awesome lyrics, and describes exactly how I feel. I have added a play list to the right hand side of this blog. Inside this play list you will get a glimpse of where I have been, how I feel, and the soundtrack that is my life.

The song below couldn't be more PERFECT! Right, Shauna?


Sterling

Narnia

I didn't think the third Narnia lived up to the expectations set by the first two. I was disappointed in the amount of action the movie had. I missed the old characters. I didn't enjoy the new character either. I was also sad to see the mouse go. I liked the idea of the green mist and the seven swords, just wished they would have done more with it.

I give the film two stars.

Marshall

Making Cookies, Christmas Cookies

Every year, we have many special traditions we share with the kids during the holidays. We decorate the house, look at lights in pajamas, go ice skating, and and so much more. One thing that I really enjoy is baking with the kids. Today we made over five dozen sugar cookies. We cut out, baked, and frosted the yummy treats. Even Dad got involved. I just had to stop this year and take in the family being together and having Moriah with us. I am so thankful for my family. I cherish the memories we make as a family. I look forward next weekend for two of the season's favorites at our house , Marshall's Famous Pretzels and Sydney Chocolate Chip Cookies. I wonder what Moriah will want to make with Mommy when she gets bigger?

Shauna

Fire Pit

Usually, Shauna and I put the kids to bed and then we go enjoy a nice fire, a few drinks, and conversation. Tonight, the entire family took advantage of the nice weather. We all sat around the fire talking about our day, roasting marshmallows, and drinking hot chocolate. It was simply quality family time. The fire pit has been a new addition to our home, and we foresee many more nights spent around the fire creating memories.


Sterling

Change?

I voted for Barack Obama in 2008. He will NOT be getting my vote in 2012! What a huge disappointment. The final straw for me was the tax deal he cut with Republicans. He campaigned on repealing the Bush tax cuts and then extends them? What? Good idea, it will only add 900 BILLION dollars to the deficit. It is insane to continue to give the top 2% tax cuts.

So far in his presidency he has....

1. Signed a worthless health care bill. Every American can get health insurance but at what cost? Completely worthless!

2. Not done anything to bring back the jobs that Bush shipped overseas with tax breaks for corporations.

3. Done nothing to help reduce the price of gas. Gas prices are currently at $2.86 and inching higher everyday.

And so on...

Once again, we have a President who is ignoring the middle class. We have a President who is focusing on the wealthy and big business. You are not helping the middle and lower class by extending unemployment benefits. Creating jobs would be helping those people! DUH!!!!

So much for "change"....

&

GOD HELP US ALL if Caribou Barbie gets elected in 2012.


Sterling

It's Time

I have put off my Christmas rant long enough...so brace yourself.

Christmas is NOT about spending STUPID amounts of money on presents. Christmas is NOT about having a certain number of presents under the tree. You cannot make someone love you with gifts(well, no one that is worth loving & being loved by). To many people either spend ridiculous amounts of money on Christmas or put absolutely no thought in the gifts that they give people. Why is it so hard for people to find a happy medium?

1. You can NOT replace spending time and making memories with your child. Spending hundreds of dollars on your child and getting them everything they ask for does not make you a good parent! One day of presents does not erase a year of sub par parenting.

2. Stop the no-thought gifts. If you feel obligated to buy a gift and fulfill that obligation by just pulling something off of a clearance shelf, then please just save your money.

As adults we have a responsibility to teach our children the true meaning of Christmas. Christmas is an opportunity for us to show compassion, thoughtfulness, unselfish behavior, and love towards others. The "Christmas spirit" should live on throughout the entire year.

I have been to hell and back. There was no "gift" that got me through the tough times. A gift cannot hold you on a bad day. A gift cannot laugh, cry, love, listen, and talk to you. Material things may fill your home but they will never fill your heart!


So this Christmas season as you spend money, buy gifts, and make a list for what you "want" for Christmas, I would suggest that you stop to remember what it is that is truly important. All of us have the capability to change someone's life and make it better. Our actions and emotions are the real gift this holiday season! With that being said, what is it that you truly "want" for Christmas?

Sterling

Like Father, Like Son...

I recently had to purchase basketball shoes for Marshall. That purchase brought up memories of my days playing basketball. When I was a freshman, I needed shoes for the upcoming season and dad told me that he would give me $60 towards my shoe purchase. A brand new place called the Sports Castle opened in downtown Kansas City. Dad and I made the trip from Harrisonville to the Sports Castle, during their grand opening, to shop for shoes. I purchased a pair of white and grey Nike basketball shoes for $60. I wanted the Jordan's but decided that spending an extra $30 was not necessary.

As many of you know, I am an expert deal finder when it comes to shopping. When Marshall was little (toddler) I was able to find him Jordan's for the same price as cheap Wal-Mart shoes. I saved his Jordan's (about 10 pair) and they are now on a shelf in the basement. He likes to go down and look at his shoes from when he was little. We discuss the different styles and he is very aware that Michael Jordan was the greatest to ever have played the game.

This year, I told Marshall I would spend up to $40 on his basketball shoes. He was very patient and looked online, in stores, at the Nike outlet, and Adidas outlet. Marshall wanted Jordan's but realized that the odds of him finding a pair at his $40 "allowance" was going to be difficult. He did not give up in his search and lady luck smiled at him! His shoes are pictured below...they were purchased for $39.99!

Sterling

Tangled

First of all, I was so excited that finally we have a green eyed princess represented. I have green eyes. Second of all, I was so excited that she has long blond hair. I have long blond hair. Okay, not as long as Rapunzel, but it is long.

Now to the movie, the movie was a four star success. There is always a good animal character in every Disney movie, this movie is no different. The lizard and horse were hilarious. The chase scenes were very interesting. I laughed so hard every time anyone got whacked in head with Rapunzel's frying pan. I can't think of a part that I didn't like.

It is a must have when it comes out on video.

Sydney

We just "hung out"...

Recently, I have heard people use the phrase "hanging out" or "we hung out" to describe how they spend time with members of the opposite sex. So today Shauna and I "hung out". We had the whole day to ourselves. We shopped, ate at Salty Iguana (mmmm Grande De Pollo burrito), went to the movies, shopped some more, cuddled on the couch, lay face to face talking, and ALL of the other activities couples do when they just "hang out". Dating, being in love, or just "hanging out", whatever you call it, it sure is fun!

Sterling

Turkey Day

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving this year. Food, fun, and family! What else matters?

Our menu this year included:

Snacks
Cheese ball & Crackers
Celery & Peanut Butter

Thanksgiving Dinner

Raspberry Vodka and cranberry juice(for the adults)
Cornbread Stuffing
Green Bean Casserole
Yukon Gold Loaded Mashed Potatoes
King Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
Cranberry Sauce
Turkey Gravy
18lb Turkey
Pumpkin Pie




Sterling

DO WORK

Marshall and I have a favorite saying...DO WORK! We saw this saying on a tv show and then had a long discussion about what "DO WORK" means. We came to the conclusion that DO WORK can be used in many different settings and situations. We use DO WORK as a motivational tool to get something done.

Upcoming spelling test...DO WORK

Room to clean...DO WORK

Homework to finish...DO WORK

In the huddle for basketball or soccer...DO WORK


Everyday all of us "DO WORK" in one way or another.

Deathly Hallows Part 1

Today we went to go see Deathly Hallows Part 1. I really enjoyed it. It was action packed and kept you on the edge of your seat. I liked this movie way better than the previous movie. (The Half-Blood Prince) I would give this movie 3.5 stars. I would recommend that you see it. I'm excited for Part 2 to be released next summer. I can't wait to see how it ends.

Marshall

Hammett Family Pictures in Video

Sterling, Shauna, Marshall, Sydney, and Moriah Hammett

Aunt Alice - Thank you!

Aunt Alice made beautiful quilt blankets for Marshall, and Sydney when they were born.

We recently received an absolutely gorgeous quilt in the mail for Moriah. We have placed the quilt in her crib and Moriah sleeps with it nightly. Thank you for taking the time to make a special gift by hand. It truly is magnificent.


Sterling

1st Fountain Ever

I love when a baby has enough hair to make a "fountain". Moriah sported her fountain for the first time today. Why is it that the littlest things in life put the biggest smile on my face?

Sterling

Unstoppable

Today we went as a family to see Unstoppable. I am a huge Denzel Washington fan and we see every movie that he makes. Unstoppable was a great movie. Great story, intense action, and superb acting. Would highly recommend it!

Marshall wants to remind everyone....only 5 days until the new Harry Potter movie is released. Yes...we will be there on Friday (Opening Day)!



Sterling

Still...

Shauna and I have been together for almost 18 years. WOW! How the time flies. We started dating in January of 1993. In the last 18 years we have had many ups and our share of downs. We get through the bad the same way we get through the good...TOGETHER! We have said for years that no matter what life throws at us we will deal with it and be okay. Recently, I have been reflecting on our time together and this roller coaster that is called LIFE. I cannot imagine not having Shauna by my side.

Shauna is and always has been my best friend. Our relationship works! Our friendship and love is everlasting. Shauna has been my biggest cheerleader in my professional life, helped me become a great dad, been a shoulder to cry on, laughed with me, and loved me like no one else ever could. Over the years we have taken vacations, had children, relocated(moved), both dealt with issues involving our parents and sisters, attended college, switched careers, had close friends move away, fought through martial problems, and just dealt with everyday life. I can honestly say that there is no one that I would have rather gone through all of the above with. Shauna is my everything!

I am more in love today than I ever have been. Shauna puts a smile on my face that cannot be duplicated. She knows how to love me and I know how to love her. Isn't that what makes a marriage successful? Shauna, I cannot imagine loving you any more than I do right now! But hey....I have said that before!

Sterling

Fall on campus

Our family loves to attend KU football games. Win or lose it is a wonderful time. On Saturday we saw the Jayhawks come back from a 35 point deficit to defeat Colorado. The highlight of the day was being able to take in all of the aspects of fall on campus. There is nothing like walking through campus and down the hill to the stadium. Marshall and Sydney get to run and play. Shauna and I get to walk, talk, and hold hands. This is family time at its finest.

Sterling

Harry, Hermione, and a banana!

No school - - - go to the zoo

The kids did not have school today. Shauna was stuck at school conducting conferences. I decided to use this opportunity to take the kids to the Kansas City Zoo. In years past we have been Friends of the Zoo and used our membership to visit the zoo several times a month. Last year we let our membership expire and have regretted it all summer/fall. So plans have already been made to re-start our membership in 2011 so that we can enjoy going to see the animals as much as possible. Today we spent the majority of our time at the zoo viewing the brand new Polar Bear exhibit. Marshall was amazed at the size of polar bear and Sydney loved watching him swim in his tank. What a fabulous addition to the zoo! We look forward to returning next spring as a family and making more memories.






Sterling

Pumpkin Contest Winners

Marshall and Sydney entered the pumpkin decorating contest at school. They both entered their pumpkins in the "Funny" category. Each grade level had a winner for Funny, Scary, and Classic. They both were recognized during the PTA meeting. Marshall won the Funny category for 4th grade. Sydney won the Funny category for 1st grade. The ride home from the meeting was spent discussing ideas for next year and how to repeat as winners.

KU Football

On a perfect fall evening our family took in a KU Football Game.





Sterling

Sour Cream Cookies and more...

Our family loves to take day trips. Today we got up early and all piled in the car to head to Jamesport, Missouri. When Shauna was pregnant with Moriah she fell in love with the Amish made cinnamon rolls from Countryside Bakery. It turned into a major craving, and one she rarley had filled due to the 90 minute drive it would take to get them. This trip we not only got Shauna's cinnamon rolls but the kids got to munch on some delicious Sour Cream Cookies ,a definite family favorite. We went to the various Amish stores purchasing treats, groceries, and treasures. For lunch we headed to Gallatin to the Corner Cafe for another family favorite, big Tenderloin Sandwhiches. With our bellies and car trunk full we headed west...


Sterling

Golden Girl

Shawnee Mission West High School held a "Dance Clinic" that Sydney participated in. Friday she got to show off her new dance skills during half-time of the football game. They danced to OMG by Usher. This was Sydney's second year to dance at a football and loves to "shake her booty" (her words)! She will definitely be doing it again next fall. Special thanks to Mrs. Abraham (Sydney's teacher) for accepting Sydney's invitation and coming to watch her dance.

KC Pumpkin Patch Field Trip

I love being a DAD! So glad that I had the opportunity to go.


Sterling

Mathletics

On Wednesday, Marshall attended his first Mathletics competition. He was chosen to represent his school for the competition and competed with two other students. He loved the opportunity and learned so much from the experience. He already has strategies planned for next time. Sterling and I enjoyed watching Marshall celebrate with his team when the answers were announced. The whole family can't wait for the next Mathletics event( even Sydney and Moriah had a great time)!

What is Mathletics?
Mathletics is a 15 problem competition that focuses on problem solving. Students work in groups of three to solve problems within a specific amount of time. Points are earned for each problem solved; sometimes one answer is needed for the next problem. The team with the most points is the winner.

There are four regular contests during the school year. Competitions end with a regional contest.

Really?

Let me preface this by saying that I am NOT a Turner Gill fan, and did not agree with his hiring. I chalk his getting the coaching job at KU as just another mistake by Lew Perkins. What a MESS!

The KC Star has reported that Turner Gill has implemented new "policies" for his players...

1. Players are not allowed to be seen or be with a female after 10pm. DAILY!

2. Players must turn their cell phones in the day before the game and do not get them back until after the game.

Are you freaking kidding me? He wants his players to be "focused" on the game. Well...so far this year you have lost to a 1-AA school, and suffered a 55-7 BEATDOWN at the hands of Baylor. So......how is that working out for ya, COACH??????

Real life is juggling phones, females, and many other obstacles in your day-to-day life. In real life you must learn to multi-task and stll focus/perform at your "job". So you are not only not preparing them for football games but now not preparing them for LIFE either. Wonderful...

So good luck coach!

Good luck recruiting!

Good luck keeping your players "focused"!

So far you have done a superb job......

Sterling

Talking to the baby....

Research has shown that if a baby hears 30,000 or more words a day they are more likely to talk at an earlier age than those who hear less than 30,000 a day. So our family has been narrating everything we see, do, and experience to Moriah in order to put this research to the test. Moriah loves when people talk to her. She smiles and makes "talking" noises back. Nothing gets more of a response then when someone says "Hellooooo". I started this in a funny voice the day we brought her home from the hospital. I was just being silly and it quickly caught on with Marshall and Sydney. It has now become a daily thing and the way we all say hello to Moriah. She loves it and smiles everytime! Many of you know that I am a huge Seinfeld fan and believe that there is a Seinfeld episode for almost every situation that you could encounter in your daily life. So here it is.......

Sterling

I admit I have a problem....

I have had my Blackberry for several months. For the life of me I have no idea how I ever existed without it.

My Blackberry is not just my cell phone. My Blackberry is....

1. Home to our family calendar.
2. My portable office. Allowing me to respond to emails on the go.
3. GPS device for directions and maps.
4. Pocket ESPN - for receiving and monitoring sports scores/lines.
5. Video Camera - See below! used in church to get thumb video of Moriah.
6. My own "Weather Channel" with instant access to forecasts, radar, and etc.
7. Wireless web on the go.

And much much more..........

I have set limits and rest assured that my Blackberry does not come to the dinner table or the bedroom. I have always been a "gadget guy" and this is just another toy. So thank you RIM for creating the Blackberry and simplifying my life.

Sterling

Moriah 2 month check-up

Moriah had her two month check-up yesterday. The doctor looked her over, weighed her, measured her, and gave her 4 shots. The shots went over as expected...she was angry at first then by the 4th shot she could have cared less. At that point the damage had already been done.

As of 9/29/10....

Weight 11LBS.5oz
Height 22 inches

Hard to believe it has been 2 months. Our family has adjusted very well to our new addition. Everyone pitches in and helps in the day-to-day. Sydney changes diapers, Marshall helps with bottle feedings, and Shauna (of course) is the glue that holds this family together. We are all very excited that fall is here. Fall for our family means Marshall and Sydney's soccer games, KU football, Halloween, raking leaves, lots of grilling, Chiefs on Sunday, and our upcoming daytrip to Jamesport/Cameron/St. Joe.

Sterling

Help me find my thumb!

Mac and Cheese - Finally

I have been experimenting with a Mac & Cheese recipe for over a year. I finally have it perfected and I'm sharing it below.


Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

1 (16 ounce) package shell pasta
2 eggs
1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
1-2 Jalapenos diced (optional)
3-4 pieces of chopped bacon or cubed ham (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic salt or I use California Style Pepper (can be found at Costco)
1 teaspoon pepper
8 ounces process cheese (Velveeta)
2 cups shredded mild Cheddar cheese, divided
2 cups shredded pepper jack or Mexican cheese, divided


Directions
1.Cook macaroni/shells according to package directions. Do not overcook pasta. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, butter, garlic salt and pepper until combined. Add cubed Velveeta and 1-1/2 cups of each cheddar cheese.
2.Drain macaroni/shells. When done cooking shells, immediately rinse pasta in cool water. Stir into cheese mixture. Pour into a greased 9 x 13 baking dish. Top with remaining cheeses. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and edges are bubbly. Would recommend stirring once at 15 minute mark.


The kids love this recipe and it is so easy to make. No rue! Just throw it together and cook it...


Sterling

Moriah One Month Old

Video/pictures of Moriah at one month old!

Real Love...defined

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends...



Time has taught me the word "love" means different things to different people. Some people just throw around the word love and do not have any feeling/meaning behind it. It is just something they say in passing or because they think they love someone. I would suggest to you today that REAL LOVE is something you live DAILY. I have made my share of mistakes but in the end love (aka REAL LOVE) conquers all!

Forever, For Always, & No Matter What!

I love you, Shauna! Always have & ALWAYS will!


Sterling