Afternoon fun!

Mia finally decided to put her face in the water so she can learn to swim. Here is a clip of her, and the family, enjoying ourselves. There is plenty of room, so feel free to come out and visit us.

A little video clip

of the turtle. The kids love all kinds of creatures and want to keep them for pets. Too bad I'm such a mean parent and don't allow it.

It left without us.

I had to work Wednesday evening, so we didn't head down for the launch. Of course that means the shuttle actually launched. Oh well, we'll try again next month.

The weather prevails yet again.

The shuttle launch was scrubbed for the third straight day. On the bright side, the kids finished most of the third book on the drive (they finished it today and started the fourth). Next launch, tomorrow. Don't know if we feel up to do the drive again, maybe we will wait till the August launch.

The space shuttle Endevour

has been trying to get into space a few times now. On Saturday we were going to go, but found out the launch had been scrubbed prior to leaving. Yesterday we drove the 2 1/2 hours down, found a decent spot, then found out ten minutes before the scheduled launch it had been scrubbed again. The third time is a charm, right? Wish us luck.

Here the kids are sitting, waiting for the big show. Notice the book in Emmi's hand, she is reading the third book of the series to the kids now.

Jennifer's Birthday

was on Saturday. I guess because I didn't get her a present that day (she got it early) someone saw fit to bring one. I'm not sure if the present was for her or the kids, but a stray cat has been partially adopted.

Oreo, as the kids named her, is very friendly and social (especially for a cat). They played with her Saturday morning as we worked in the yard. Then, when it started raining they all took cover in the garage where they spent all afternoon. Jennifer, who always said we would never own pets, looked at me with those begging brown puppy dog eyes and said "Please can it come in side?" It was her birthday and all, so I finally caved in.

It comes in on occasion and takes a nap or plays with the kids. I don't think we will ever own an indoor house pet. Jennifer has some good allergies (yeah).

Also, here is everyone chasing a turtle across the driveway. I was surprised at how fast it could move!

My first flight

in the P-3 was a great time. It was probably my most laid back and enjoyable first flight I've had. I included a picture so you can see what a P-3 looks like (and no, there were no weapons on it when I flew it). The primary mission of the P-3 is to search and destroy submarines. I can't wait for my next flight!

What are we in for?

So, on Saturday mornings we all go out as a family and work in the yard. We usually tackle the mowing, edging and weed eating while the kids go to work pulling weeds out of the bark beds. So now that the scene is set you are ready for the story.

Saturday evening I was out talking to our neighbor across the street, a great guy named Ron who is 66 years old and has his son and grandchildren who live down the street. He told me I'd better keep an eye on Emmi. Earlier that morning while we were working in the yard, his grandson (13 years old) was looking out blinds and wanted to know who Emmi was because he was interested in her.

I figured I had a few more years, but I guess I was ignorant. All you gun savvy individuals, I need input. One scared, over protective father looking for an accurate, reliable hand gun to reinforce morals in future dates of my princesses.

Do you know the muffin woman???

After being inspired by some other blogs, I have decided to start blogging the pictures and recipes of food that our family has tried and liked. Today was a new recipe: Nutmeg blueberry muffins. After changing a few ingredients this is what came out. Lets just say they did not last very long!

Nutmeg Blueberry Muffins

1/2 cup softened butter
2/3 cup sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups whole wheat flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs 1 at a time beating after each egg. Stir in milk and vanilla. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Add to the creamed mixture until moistened. Fold in the blueberries. Fill paper lined muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. (if using frozen blueberries do not thaw before adding to batter) Makes 18 muffins

Kids and Fire

Last night for the 4th of July we stayed home. I know, really boring. That is OK though, with the number of intoxicated drivers out on holiday weekends it was probably a good choice. We did buy some sparklers for the kids to use. They were so excited to have them at first, until they were about gone. Combine no more fireworks with watching other houses shooting off quite a display and soon Brody was whining about wanting more. Oh well, it was still fun.

Emmi, the amazing sister,

has taken it upon herself to read to the rest of the kids. I'm not talking about simple books, I'm talking about full on novels! She will read them around the house sometimes, but road trips is when she really gets into them. Trips to Orlando or to Grandma and Grandpa K's house are not trips of electronic entertainment, just Emmi narrating a good book. I have to admit, after listening to her read on the way to Orlando I picked up the book later in the week and read it myself. I actually enjoyed it.

She has now read the first two books of the series to the rest of the kids; The Lightning Thief, and The Sea of Monsters. If you read purely for entertainment you should like them. If you don't want your kids reading about magic and the Greek Gods I wouldn't recommend them.