Halloween...

Not a bad day for Halloween, sunny and warm with some wind, hopefully this will hold out for the evening. Laura met me at work for lunch with a sandwich and then took me with her to run some errands for Anna's class party today. She ran in the dollar tree and then we went to Big Lots. Next we stopped by Domino's to order the pizza for the class snack. Laura ran me back to work so I could get to the SOS and pick up a sticker for the Taurus. After work the kids were messing around and trying to figure out what they were going to be this evening. Anna was already down at Craig's helping to get ready for the 7pm start time for the haunted yard. Caleb and Gabe were going to help as well and wandered down too after finding the clothes they needed. Keaton and Forrest are making their own plans, something about riding bikes to his grandmas and trick or treating. Kendall and Thom dropped off Brianna and I went down to make sure that Anna had everything she needed. Laura and I took Brianna with us down to Craig's, and thru in some warm items for Anna. We stayed down there and watched, visited, helped a little and mostly just hung out until they were done. About 9pm we wandered back to Jan & Lawson's for some warm food. We found some potato soup and some other eats before gathering all the kids and heading home.

Warm Day...

Did not walk at lunch today, Laura and I met at JJ's for lunch before my hair cut appointment. There was quite a few people working and talked to Amber at one point, very nice girl and she said to tell Anna Hi. After work we ate some supper and Carrie will take to PSR tonight and Kendall will bring home. The boys went to the fields after school to play soccer with their gang, Laura dropped them off. I was trying to get to the Y to workout while Laura went to choir and Anna was at PSR but that wasn't going to work because the boys would be calling soon for a ride home. I ended up doing a quick run thru the neighborhood and by the time I got home the boys were ready. I went to get them and they wanted to swing by JJ's to get a sandwich, so we did. We got home by 7:30pm to be there for Anna so everything worked out fine. We just relaxed the rest of the night since the night before was a busy evening.

A Girl Party...

Walked outside down Maine street, a little chilly but not bad after you got warmed up. Laura was very busy at work this AM burning power point presentations onto CD's, Wow she is learning all kinds of good stuff. Didn't have time for lunch together today so grabbed some crackers and a tea before heading back to work. Got home from work, Anna and Stephanie were playing and I jumped right in to helping Laura prepare Anna's birthday supper. I don't think Laura has taken a break since I saw her at lunch time. She is making a big batch of spaghetti and meatballs with lots of bread, YUM. I was in charge of icing this cake but there were too many people watching me so I didn't get to lick my fingers like usual :) Our Peeps all wandered in except for Logan and Mak, but they called and did say they are on their way. Kori had to work tonight and wasn't real thrilled with missing the party but she did get off early. Blake stopped by too and everyone was accounted for, I think Laura ended up making all the spaghetti she had in the house three different times and got to sit down twice all evening. Thank You Honey... Anna got to her present openning after candles and singing. She got some good stuff and played one of the games with Brianna to finish out the night.

Sunny Day...

Church and then Wendy's. Laura ran some errands after her Salem gig because she was in charge of decorations for the kids choir snacks after the concert. She was able to find the things she needed and met us for lunch. We went home after that and the girls got ready for the concert, I showed up in time for the start. Very good concert with many in attendance, the children do a great job and the piano player is awesome. Helped clean up afterwards and went home. Anna went over to GMa's and played with Brianna for awhile. Laura has to play another gig tonight at St. Francis for the Right to Life concert that Ralph and his family puts on. She went to that by herself because I was pretty sure I couldn't find any other kids to go with me. I got some comfy clothes on and made a little fire after Laura left, Keaton and Caleb came out and sharpened some sticks for a couple of marsh mellows, Adam was at work. We decided to order Domino's and I went and picked it up. We chowed down and Kori ate some too before she left for the evening. Watched a little of the Make Over show and Keaton went to get Anna from Bowen's about 8pm. The boys talked me into watching Wild Hogs with them so we lounged and took this movie in. It wasn't as great as all the hipe that I heard, not bad though. I fessed up to Laura about watching the movie without her, I hope she will forgive me. She got home after we were done, she went to Kelly's with her Ma & Pa after playing the evening gig.

Busy Sat, Nice Sunshine...

I got a call in the AM about green QSL 40th anniversary shirts for the 6th grade boys. I made arrangements to pick some up and get them to the fields since I had to get the popcorn issue resolved. Laura and Anna have dress rehearsal at 10am for the kids concert tomorrow so I will have some time to get this done. As I was going to the fields I saw a sweet 1972 Honda CB 100 motorcycle in a driveway and had to stop and look. I called the guy, Jerry and he let me test drive it. Pretty nice bike that belonged to a Shriner near Springfield, IL. and was ridden in parades for several years before being retired. Jerry and I had a nice chat, this guy is very talented and has made / rebuilt several vehicles during his life, interesting gentleman. Came home after that and worked at Jacob's to get their wired network working with a desktop computer they have. I put male ends on the cable Tim and Luke ran and was able to get the computer hooked up working on the network. Barb F. was there and I may have to work at her house next. I took Caleb, Anna and Gabe to the Y so they could swim and mess around. I warmed up inside and then ran outside to see if I could do the Turkey Run route. I made it but not the exact route come to find out, close though. We came home and got cleaned up and Laura, Anna and I went to the Adoration Chapel celebration at St. Peters. They had a mass and then supper and a short program afterwards. GMa asked Anna to sing so her and Laura did You Raise Me Up for the people. Anna was a little nervous but did a great job, she had a lot of compliments. I was very proud of both of them, it is definitely a talent that God has given those that can sing and play. We stayed until the very end so we could help put things away.

Rainy and Cool...

Walked at the mall and ate at McD's. They really need to keep that eatery cleaner. It is rainy today, not a hard rain but just enough to be nasty - good thing it is not cold. Keaton came and picked up my car after working out and made a weekly visit to Kohl Wholesale for me. They probably won't be painting today. I forgot to let Laura know I needed a ride after work and Keaton didn't think to came back and get me, OH well I guess I paid for that mistake but it didn't take Laura long to get here. She told me about a Halloween party that Anna is wanting to go to tonight from 6:40 - 8:40pm, not sure why that time, but the girls talked on the telephone a couple of times and the next thing I new Anna was getting dressed up in a quick and easy costume. Laura and I took her to Country Club apartments clear in the back, not sure I was ever back that far before. I walked her to the door and the mother and daughter answered, the Mom was speaking spanish to the daughter but did understand the basics when we greeted each other. I haven't really experienced that in Quincy. We had to stop by the concession stand because Keaton and Forrest put the canned cheese in the freezer. I also found that Kohl gave us two boxes of bags instead of popcorn. I will have to get this straightened out in the morning. Laura and went to Kohl's department store next and did some shopping. I found a pair of shoes for working out and a couple of pairs of shorts too. I haven't spent that kind of money on Me for awhile. We picked up Anna at 8:40pm and went to JJ's for supper.

Birthday Girl big 11...

Woke up this AM and left a couple of notes around the house for the birthday girl. Laura gave Anna one of her gifts (cute shoes) before she left for school, she was very thrilled and a great way to start the day :) It is amazing that Anna is eleven years old now. I can remember when she was tiny wondering what we might be going thru when she reaches 11 or 12, Thank You Lord for this beautiful little girl and all the good things she has brought to our family. I pray that you continue to keep her healthy and strong. Laura played for a funeral at noon with Jan & Lawson so we ate at Kelly's with them instead of walking. Laura had to leave right as we were done to go practice with Ralph at home and I finished up with J&L before heading back to work. Keaton, Caleb and Alex L are planning to ride with them to the sectional game tonight in Springfield. It is clouding up and there is a chance of rain, Yuk. Adam called about some parts for his Golf, he needs a new fuel filter and wanted to get some fuel cleaning stuff to put in his tank. I helped him with this until next pay check. Anna had flute today and I saw a gift from her teacher when I got home from work, it was a pink poodle bank. It is a shame that she is not loved. She decided that she wanted to go to Village Inn for supper, just me Laura and the two girls, Adam had to work the second of his double. The three of us ran to TJ Max before piano and then met Kori after for supper. Anna's birthday meal was chocolate chip pancakes, silk pie for dessert and then washed it down with the last of Kori's coffee. (I borrowed these words from u know who :) Anna got two phone calls while we were sitting there too, Logan and Nanny. We ran to the store after that Laura ran in while we listened to the radio, QHS lost 2-0 and it did rain in the first half. Home next and then waited in bed for the boys to check in.

Mid Week...

Walked at the mall and Laura brought me half a sandwich, ate in the van and visited. Caleb called to see if they could play at PDSC so he and Keaton were going to meet some peeps there. After work I got home to a supper of meat balls and pasta, Thank You Dear. The boys were still out playing so Keaton took Caleb to piano again and stuck around to pick him up. They went by JJ's to see Logan and will wander home after that. Laura has group tonight so I took Anna with me to the Y after supper so she can swim again while I workout. Adam doesn't feel good so he is still resting downstairs. Anna didn't swim real long tonight at the Y, I had a good work out and tried a different machine to see how it worked. We met out by the TV and game room so she could find a snack to buy before leaving, she has her swim bag, coin purse and has showered and dried off. She is quite the trip... We wandered home after that and Anna got ready for bed. Caleb was on the couch so I pushed him along soon too because he needed some sleep from the night before.

Wicked Tickets...

Had a reminder to buy our Wicked tickets today so I was able to get this done on line. I told Laura that we got the good seats, this is going to be soooo awesome I'm glad she talked me into the good seats. I have never been to a big theatre in a big city so I can't wait. I contacted Tom M. the other day too and we may hire him to pick us up, that would be a crazy time. Adam had some issue with his car and Laura ran a gas can out to him. He seems to think it is a fuel filter and will replace that. He has class and a double shift at work today. Keaton and Caleb went to Springfield with GPa & GMa for the sectional soccer game tonight, game time 7pm. Laura and I decided to take whom ever wanted to out for a quick bite. Kori needed to shower and Adam was at work so we took Anna to Panera Bread and grabbed a quick bite before she had to be at PSR and Laura to chorus. Laura took me back home after dropping Anna off and then I was incharge of picking Cora and Anna up from PSR. We made arrangements to have Cora go swim with Anna at the Y while I worked out. I talked to Dan P at the Y, we had a nice visit getting updated on all the kids. I may have to call him about playing racketball this winter. The girls finished swimming about 8:30pm and went wandered home. I got Anna to bed and started listening to the game on line at WTAD, it was very exciting, 4OT's and PK's before QHS wins. It was after 11pm before the boys got home and to bed.

New, Used Tires...

Walked the mall with Laura at lunch time. Kori called me after I got back from lunch and wanted to know about getting some better tires for the front end of of her car. She had talked to Logan and he suggested that she go over to Delta Tires used store by his old apartment. Kori and I talked and she went there and the guy was able to fix her up with something good and the price was right as well. I split the cost with her and the tire man said she had a belt that was broke so it was past time to get them replaced. Kori said her car drives much better, no pulling and no noise. Had a good supper at home and no where special to be. Gabe came over for a bit and I sent some cable home with him so Tim can run a network connection and then I will put the ends on for him.

B-Day Party...

Church this AM and Wendy's. Keaton was with us and had a scarf on I guess until his dreads are fully tamed. Came home right after we ate because GPa was taking some kids to the farm to walk and look for arrow heads. Anna couldn't stay long because she had kids choir and it turned out there was still crops in the fields so they didn't spend the time there that they wanted. Laura went to the store and I started cleaning up the back yard for a fire in the pit later today. I had to get the chain saw out to make a quick job of it, found plenty of dry wood and twigs for a couple of fires at least. I was in charge of the cake while Laura and Anna went to choir practice and was even able to get in a quick run/walk while it was baking. After the cake was done baking I went to Home Depot to get some more blocks for around the fire pit to make it more presentable, I came up 2 short this time. I came back in and iced the cake, family started gathering around 5pm-ish and I started the fire for roasting hot dogs and marsh mellows close to 6. It was windy and warm most of the day but settled down nicely by evening. Forrest got back to town and came over in time to eat with us, his timing is perfect when it comes to food :) We all had a good time around the fire even Logan stopped by and ate and visited, It was very nice having him there too. We made it back inside to sing, open presents and take pictures before the end of the night so the party was complete.

Homeless Awareness...

Rolled out around 8am, just couldn't sleep any longer and made some coffee. Laura doesn't have a wedding today so that makes the day different from the get go. Looked in the newspaper and online for the days events. We ended up going to the Octoberfest parade down Maine street starting at 2pm. The weather is wonderful today and even hot in the sun, the bands looked very warm at times while marching. I believe last year it was cold and rainy all day and night even during field competition, what a difference. Anna and I packed for the Y before we left so we had Laura drop us off so we could swim and work out. Laura ran out to TJ Max, messed around and then came back to pick us up after about an hour. I mowed the backyard when we got home and then got carried away cutting some low hanging oak limbs out back so I can setup a fire pit, Caleb and I made quite the mess. Laura made neopolitan dinner and apple crisp for supper and desert, I think Keaton may have ordered the dinner. After supper Caleb wanted to run out to Wal-Mart to look for an xbox game, he wants to spend some of his field painting money. Caleb, Keaton and I went out there and he found a soccer game to buy. We past some college students on the way out of the parking lot who were raising money for the homeless by living in boxes for 24 hours, we gave them all the change we had in the car. We stopped by JJ's to visit with Logan and invite him over for Keaton's B-day party on Sunday. We talked for a bit and had some good laughs, very neat to see them interact and all have fun. We wandered home and chilled the rest of the night.

Friday Evening Lites...

Scheduled to work the QHS concession stand at 4pm today for the regional soccer championship. I am planning to get off work at 4pm and pick up Keaton from the Y. He will drop me off at the game and make a quick run to Kohl wholesale for me to pick up QSL concession stand product. Laura and I worked the concessions the whole time (3 hours) and never did see any of the game, QHS beat QND 2-1. After the game Anna went with Stephanie to Casano's and party'd with the team while Laura and I found Jan and Lawson at Kelly's by themselves so we crashed their party. We went by the grocery store and then home where we found Keaton and Caleb home starving, they are not able to help themselves I guess, Laura was able to help them find something. Forrest is camping this weekend so Keaton is hanging out around the house and Anna is going to spend the night with Stephanie. Laura and I started watching the movie Throw Mama From the Train on TV and made it all the way to the end.

Let's Talk...

Walked the mall today, and I had to pick something up at Radio Shack after walking before going to McD's for a quick eat. The boys came and got my car after working out at the Y and were going to paint fields. Not sure how much painting they did I believe they played soccer with some of their buddy's. They were having so much fun that Keaton took Caleb to piano because they were running late. Checked out Adam's headliner replacement job in his Golf, pretty cool stuff --Nice job. Laura and I had a date with Kori tonight after supper and her work out. Kori has fallen back into a slump and is not really making any effort to get out so we decided it was time to have another talk. She is such a great person with so much to offer, she just needs to understand that she is not pushing herself very much. She needs to find another job and put herself in a position to get her own place or pick a course of study and do it. She will get there but it is just very frustrating to watch her settle and do the minimal. She wants us to treat her like an adult but we like being treated like human beings with a little respect, that's not too much to ask. Keaton ended up picking Caleb up from piano as well, he new we needed more time to talk. After our talk I ran to Papa John's to get pizza and bring it home, nice and hot... Adam couldn't wait that long so he left to find his own food.

Regional Soccer...

Walked at the mall and ate a half of a Kelly's sandwich in the van. The weather was not real great, big rain off and on and the threat of storms all day long. There are 2 high school soccer games tonight, 4 and 6pm. The boys are going to both games in the truck and I have a date with Anna at the Y after piano lessons. It is pretty nasty out so not a great night to be outside watching a game. After supper I took Anna to Caleb's piano night slot and then went to the Y so she could swim and I will work out. I got Anna settled into the locker room routine and then the pool, and checked on her a couple of times. They have a life guard on duty during open swims and she has swam there before. There were a couple kids swimming and I think she had fun. While working out I was asked by a guy from work if I would consider running in this years Turkey run, they are getting a couple of teams together from work to compete against times, I guess I was just waiting to be asked because I was thinking about it for this year. After the Y we went to TCBY and treated ourselves and took them home. Laura wasn't home from group yet but showed up soon to tuck Anna in. The boys talked about the games, mostly QHS and it's triple over time win. They were pretty pumped. They will be playing QND for the regional finals on Friday.

Birthday Boy...

Keaton 17th birthday is today. I can't believe he is that old and getting so big, he is really filling out from all the after school visits to the Y, his upper body is solid as a Rock. We had sandwiches for supper and the boys took off to play soccer at Baldwin for awhile with their friends. I drove the girls to PSR and then went out to K&L to drop off money and a team roster for Keaton's indoor team, I guess I will be listed as the coach/adult on the sideline. Went to the Y to work out next while Laura was at chior, Carrie is picking the girls up. Talked to Laura after working out and Anna was at Dede's because she didn't think anyone was home after PSR, (Adam was asleep still) Opps! Will have to do something different since this was the second time she has come home to no one this week. Keaton and Caleb went to JJ's and had Logan fix their supper, must have bummed a birthday meal from him. We will do his b-day party this weekend with the family.

Not Much...

Keaton was up already when I went down to get him for school, he was trying to decide which scarf to wear to school. Partial walk at the mall today. Laura worked long at the office following the concert Saturday, she has to go back again today after lunch. We grabbed a quick bite at McD's, haven't eaten there for awhile mostly because of the lack of cleanliness. Adam called me at work and asked to stay another night at SIUE, he said his car ran fine but he had to get a tire fixed at Wal-Mart because of a nail causing a slow leak. He was pleased with the $9 cost and thought that was a bargain. Got home from work and had some good eats, spaghetti and meatballs with bread sticks. Forrest was working on Keaton's hair and finishing his dreads up, it only took three days to do that and several blisters. I think Laura did a couple and Adam maybe one, but for the most part it was all Forrest. Keaton was told to take his scarf off at school today, I guess that might be some kind of consequence for doing something goofy to your hair, walk around school with your hair doo on display. I was busy working on QSL rosters and got 2 more out of the way while the rest of them were out doing hair, watching AFV and laughing quite a bit.

Celebration...

Church today was just Anna and I. Gabe spent the night and then Caleb was going to church with his family. Forrest spent the night as well and he and Keaton must have stayed up most of the night working on THE hair doo so weren't able to make it to church :( We gathered at Wendy's for lunch and then Laura and I stopped by an open condo to take a peak, pretty nice place with just a couple down sides. We relaxed for a bit before the next activities. Laura had kids choir practice and I decided to ride my bike to the Y to work out. Keaton and Forrest went to get some food and dropped Caleb off at Baldwin to play soccer with some friends. Adam was out already working on his car and hanging out with Zach and Cory. I stopped by Alan M. house to check on my Bridgestone motorcycle while riding home and talked to him a bit. He did some clean up on it and it is looking pretty good. I need to get a battery for it next so it can actually be riddin next. He told me of a guy that can synch the carbs next and then it should be good to go, I will do some checking for the right size battery to fit. Next on the agenda was going out to Steve and Renea's for a celebration party for Steve at their house. He is a lucky man with a will to live, survive and I am sure tell his story for God's glory. We took Anna with us and saw lots of people and visited with many. Laura was able to spend some good talk time with Renea towards the end of the night. We didn't leave there until 8:30pm or so, it seemed later. They had plenty of food, we sat around the camp fire and the young girls sang and danced to music. Adam called and asked to drive to SIUE and spend a day or so since he doesn't have class on M-T. We talked a couple of times before he finally made it there.

Overcast Saturday...

Got a call the first thing this AM about QSL soccer games and weather related play. It is raining off and on but no lightning so the games must go on. Need to make sure I get to the YMCA today between 10-1pm so I can save the $85 start up fee for a membership. Laura has 2 weddings today so she will be busy and then she has a concert tonight to work. Anna is going to the Brink's house for a wiener roast if the weather holds out. Kind of hung around the house in the AM and then Anna and I went to the Y to get our new membership swipe cards and have our pictures taken for the computer system. We ended up getting everyone else's cards too and taking a brief tour. I think Anna is most interested in the swimming portion of the membership. Next I took Anna out to the Brink's house and then came back in to the Y to workout. I went home after that to freshen up a bit and then was asked on a early supper date at Applebee's with Laura. We enjoyed ourselves and I was briefed on the wedding events for the day, there are always some good things that happen at weddings. A couple of stops later we were back at home for the next function. Laura did a wardrobe change and had to be at the QJHS to help setup for the symphony concert around 6pm and I went just before 7pm thinking it started at 7, I was there in plenty of time for the 7:30pm start time :) Logan called and actually came to sit with me and we got to spend some time together, he was dressed in his nicest sweat pants and we even hung out with Mom at half time. I would of liked to had more talk time so I will have to make that happen. It was sprinkling after the concert so he had to wander thru the raindrops on his scooter to get home, I don't think he got too wet. I called for Anna and had to go clear out and get her from Brink's before heading home for the night, there were some big kids there but the party was dwindling. Anna talked to me about her friend Katie and her sister and told me that they were adopted by the Brink's. I had asked Anna about siblings and such because I wasn't sure how many kids were in the family. She mentioned that the girls Mom didn't want them or something like that, Wow I wonder what goes thru their head when they talk about that stuff. We got home to Keaton getting dreads from Forrest, I guess a friend of Forrest's Mom did the sectioning for him so Forrest could start on the dreading, or what ever it is called.

Good Coffee Friday...

Dropped Keaton off at school and went by the YMCA to give them some money for the membership upgrade. Decided to get some good coffee today at CoB and talked to the neighbor lady Riley before leaving the coffee shop, she is a very nice lady and fun to talk with. During the day I got all my ducks in a row for getting Adam's VW Golf insured and registered so he can start driving it. We are planning to sell the truck to Alex L. and need to have this done in a week to save on some insurance paper work. I made a few calls to Adam and he brought me what I needed. Laura and I ended up eating Wendy's and not walking during lunch break today so I could go to the SOS office to get the registration done. Turned out I had to have Laura sign two things so I had her complete the stuff before picking me up from work. It all worked out fine and we got it completed before 5pm, Thank You Dear =) We came home and Adam wasn't far behind, he must of smelled the new plates. He pulled up in Blake's car with Ashleigh hanging with them. Adam got everything put on and in place (while sporting his new earth tone colored sneakers) to go take them for the inaugural cruse, they were pretty funny. Cory G. is in town this weekend so Adam wants to spend some time with those guys working on each others cars. He likes having some money so he can tinker, he has wanted to do that for some time now. We did some sandwiches for supper and I had to run out to the concession stand to get it put together. After that I went to JJ's and found Keaton there being bored and visiting with Logan. Makenzie came in and I sat with her while she ate, Logan got a call from a girls VBall team leaving Macomb so they were working hard to get the order done so they could close up. The bus showed up as I was leaving, hopefully the team didn't make a mess.

Last Home Game...

Cold again this morning but haven't broke out the coat yet. Walked the mall today and saw Kori delivering, we stopped and talked for just a bit before we all had to get going. Went to Taco Bell to eat, mine wasn't too bad but I guess Laura's came back to haunt her a bit. Keaton and boys came and got my car after school/YMCA so they can line fields. Caleb went to the Y today and worked out with the guys for the first time, I am in the process of getting us a Family membership so we can all go there this winter. Keaton has been faithful and I think Caleb will be as well, Kori may use it some and I know Anna would like to swim, it will be something different for us to do during the winter. Laura picked me up after work and we found out that the QHS soccer game time changed to a half hour earlier than scheduled, Laura got a call about singing the national anthem with all the sisters, but this won't fit into her schedule. I got home and changed, grabbed a PBJ and hitched a ride with Thom, Kendall and Brianna to the game. Laura will get Anna to piano and the boys will wander over after painting. Thank You Laura for letting me go watch yet another game :) Lawson was announcing and had a busy night especially at half time introducing all the seniors and the ladies + one sang before hand, Lawson did a great job and the ladies sounded wonderful as well. This is the classiest act in town, I am very proud to be a part of the family that knows and preforms the music around town so well. Thank You Jan and Lawson for the class act you are and the professionalism you bring to this family. QHS won 2-1 in a not so great preformance. I rode home with the boys and followed them out to the car while they were playing catch with the football all the way across the parking lot. We took Forrest home and made our way home after that, the QND parking lot was full tonight because of their home comming parade so we went thru the park.

Grill-Man Delivery...

Woke up to a chilly morning this AM, must be working on the fall change now. We are having our last ADM UW cookout today and we don't have access to the big grill so I volunteered my 2 generic ones. I talked to Adam and he said he would bring them out in the truck before his class, it was a great help. I went out and helped them start the grills and it was windy and cool, every other cookout has been 90 degrees. Walked at the mall and had half a sandwich that Laura brought me from Kelly's, she met some girls there after her prayer group. After work we ate good at home before dropping Anna off at Morgan's and taking Caleb to piano. After that we went back home and got bundled up so Keaton, Caleb and I could go to the QU soccer Senior night. They played Kirksville and beat them in the last minute on a fluke 1-0. It was cool enought that the hot chocolate they were selling turned to warm milk because they couldn't keep up. We sat high in the stands with jackets and blankets ready, Thom, GPa and then Lindsi and Bianna showed up. Swung by JJ's after the game to munch and visit with Logan, and Adam showed up before we left. Had to swing by and get Anna at GMa's on our way home. I had a good time with all, never a dull moment. I called and reminded Adam to swing by and pickup the grills at work before he came home tonight. He did, very helpfull.......Thanks.

Ole Man Jack...

Caleb woke up not feeling good and went back to bed. Went by QSL this AM to inventory the concession stand. Decided to go wash finger prints off my windshield and check all the air in my tires at Hy-Vee before heading to work. Walked out side today down Maine Street, very nice day again but will change soon. Straight home after work (Caleb stayed home all day) Anna has PSR tonight so Laura will be working rides out before she has to leave for choir. I took Anna, Brianna and Cora to PSR and then went out to Shoe Carnival to drop off a form for indoor soccer, I am trying to get a sponsor. I went by Wal-Mart to get a couple items and stopped and talked to Rev. Jack Herren from Hamilton, IL, he was the greeter on the west side of the store. Interesting fellow that still preaches (for an offerring only) around the area, 6 kids and has worked from here to Los Angeles and many places in between. Next I had to pick up Keaton and Forrest at Baldwin where they had been playing soccer with some friends. I took them to JJ's and visited with Logan, he was working for someone and was the scooter wheeling delivery boy. We wandered home after that and chilled.

Last Freshman Game...

Started out warm this AM but cooled off thru the day. Was supposed to rain but that missed us, didn't get to walk but did get to eat at JJ's with my beautiful wife. We enjoy eating there on occasion and there is usually someone extra there to visit with. Laura told me that Sherry B's Mom died on Sunday. She was 79 and a very nice lady, I always enjoyed talking to her at concert functions. I met Keaton and Forrest at the Guitar Shop after work today so we could have Al look at Keaton's first guitar to see what it would take to convert it to a lap slide guitar so he can try to teach himself how to play. We bought some items and Al re-strung it and tuned it before we left. Al is a great guy and I was excited to have Keaton meet him, this is where Logan would spend some of his early guitar learning days. Got a call about a must read article in the Whig so had to go get Jan's paper after getting home from work. The article was about the Quincy Classic tournament last week with some comments about QSL. Anna, Morgan and Stephanie were at the house playing and having a great time, I guess we were watching Steph :) unofficially. We ate some supper and the girls played some more. Keaton, Forrest and Gabe were hanging out back and forth between here and the Jacobs. I walked Steph home and then Anna and I took Morgan home, picked up Caleb from QJHS (they won 3-1) and came back home. Caleb gave us the low down on the final freshman game to complete his first year of high school soccer. I think he had a good time with no regrets. Laura was reading a good book and I worked way too late on QSL rosters.

Bike Ride to QU...

Got up for church plenty early with no extras going today. Made our way to Wendy's and then came home to lounge a bit before heading out again. Laura had kids choir and there is a QU soccer game this afternoon. I wasn't planning to go but decided to ride my bike out there since it is so nice. I sent the boys on in the car and met them out there for the second half. The game was a good one and QU won 5-2. I stopped by JJ's on the way back home and Logan was leaving and Kori was just getting there. I talked to Kori for a bit, just long enough for the UMSL player bus to show up and eat, they were wondering if they had enough bread. I went by Logan's house next and talked to him on the front porch while the dogs tried to get the front door open. We had a good visit, seems like we only talk at work or when he is ready to unwind lately. Made it home and Laura and I decided to walk before ordering pizza for supper. I went in and picked it up, talked to Alex L. for a bit about buying the truck when he sells his camaro. We watched the rest of extreme make over and got everyone to bed at a decent hour for the start of a new school week.

Sat. in Jefferson City...

Got up early to get Caleb at QHS for the bus. This will be my last trip out of town for freshman ball this season. I went by CoB for some good coffee and talked to Jan for a bit before getting out of there, She is an interesting lady that likes to share. Went back home to get Anna and head out to Jefferson City for 2 games, hopefully Caleb will play one. We stopped in Hannibal for gas and a couple snacks and then took off again. I called and talked to Mom when I was almost to Kingdom City. She was going to go to the candle light service at the retreat that Dad is on this weekend, Anna finished the call to get caught up with Nanny. We arrived at the fields a little before the start of the game, we only took one wrong turn. The field they played on was real nice, similar to the Vianney field in St. Louis a few weeks back. Bradley played the first game and the team tied 0-0, they could have played better and even won at the end if the ref's would have been more knowledgeable. Anna and I slipped out to Wendy's to get cooled off and grab a bite, it was a nice cool, clean spot. Caleb played the second game of the day and the team seemed to stay flat again. They lost 2-0 and Caleb had one blooper land in the corner and another break away with NO help from the defence. Not sure what the problem was other than being hot, but these guys have played better. Anna and I waited around for Caleb after the game and took some of his stuff. He rode on the bus with the gang, they made a quick stop at Wendy's and we wandered on. I missed an exit and ended up downtown Jeff City so I drove Anna around the Very Big capital building before leaving the big city. Laura had 2 weddings today and checked in with me for updates between them. We got home a bit after 5pm and had plenty of time to relax for a bit before the next function. Anna and Caleb went down to Craig's to talk about the up coming Halloween party and of coarse play. Laura and I went to the Mock reception to eat and have some adult time out. She told me about her outdoor wedding and the fun they had with the wind, Kori sang with her and things worked out fine after getting all the equipment in place and tested before hand. She had help from Keaton and thanked him by taking him out for a late lunch at Fazoli's. Our supper was good, that was my first time at the Ambiance, pretty nice place and I even found the perfect slice of cake. We didn't stay long since the kids were still down at Craig's. We unloaded some music items out of the van while in the parking lot and headed home to unwind for the rest of the evening.

Paint in the Dark...

The kids only have a half day of school today because of teachers institute. Keaton is planning to get my car to go paint and also to pick up the QSL Kohl order. This will help me out and let him have a car to get around, Laura will come get me for lunch and then again after work I guess. Laura worked a bit late today to stay caught up and she came and got me for lunch, we just drove thru and went back tp work since my lunch was running late. After work Laura fixed supper and Keaton and Forrest came home and ate. Caleb and Anna rode with GMa and GPa to the QU soccer game and I will catch up later. Keaton and Forrest had to go back and paint at the fields some more so I worked getting the concession stand ready for the weekend. The boys finished painting in the dark and bragged that it was the best ever, maybe because they couldn't see the lines, I guess time will tell. I had them drop me off at the QU game so I could watch the second half. QU won 2-1 and Caleb, Anna and I rode home with Jan and Lawson. We were in the race car so it didn't take long to get there.

She's Everywhere...

Laura had a funeral to play for this AM and we met at the mall to walk. Actually kind of warm out today so it was nice to be inside. Keaton came and got my car after working out so he and Forrest could go line fields. The JV team is supposed to play QND today at Baldwin - 5pm, Caleb had practice instead of dressing for JV like planned earlier this week so Laura had to drop off his stuff at 3pm, Caleb will go to the game after that and watch. Laura and Anna picked me up from work after flute practice and then we went home. Laura is fixing supper for us and the Meats tonight so she has been very busy all day running around town. I delivered supper and then picked up Caleb after the JV game. We came back home and ate before Anna had piano practice at 7pm. I took Anna to piano and called for Alan to see about the Bridgestone but no one was home, I did drive by and find his house. After piano I took Anna to TCBY and we sat and talked and watched the other people in the shop. It must have been senior night there because there were lots of older people in and out. It was interesting to watch and listen, one gentleman had a lady friend that he introduced to another couple. I pray to be able to grow old together with the one I Love, it can't be healthy to be alone :)

Finally at QND...

The weather is great today and Laura and I were able to walk outside again. Met at the park and walked Maine Street, Very nice walk and great company :) It looks like the weather will be nice enough to finally play the QHS v QND soccer game tonight @ QND. I guess the JV game won't be played until Thursday night now, seems to be getting hard to fit these 2 games in this week. Laura has ladies prayer group at our house tonight so I will be keeping myself and the kids clear of the house until 9pm-ish. Aate supper and took 3 boys and a little girl to the game, we got there right after it started and sat on the south end near the QHS visitors section. Keaton and I sat by each other and were having a good time watching and commenting about all the action. Anna found Morgan and were playing together most of the 2nd half, they checked back several times to make sure I wasn't lost I guess. Jonathan B. had the winning bicycle goal which was very awesome. (2-1) What a great thing, him scoring the goal in such a super fashion --- chew on that. We went to JJ's after the game to munch and visit with Logan. It was good to see him and nice to have several of the kids there having a good time talking and joking. Luke J. came in and I got to visit with him for a bit too. I hope he continues to stay in school and work hard. Took Forrest home after that and got to our house a little after 9pm and the ladies were gone, good timing. Watched the news and saw Jonathan's goal again and then in slow motion, VERY COOL.

Mr. Kelly at the Mall...

Walked at the mall today and saw JT Kelly. We stopped and talked a bit and he said that he just returned from 4 months in Iraq. He said things went OK but was very hot there, he has to go back for 11 months at the end of the week. He also said that he just got engaged to Megan, he was very excited about that. JT will be in our thoughts and prayers and I want to get his email address from his parents so I can stay in contact with him and support him. He is a great kid who spent a lot of time with Logan in high school and after. Thank You JT and God Bless You Always. Came straight home after work for a QHS @ QND soccer evening. The weather was looking pretty iffy and there is a storm coming in. Talked to Laura on my way home and she is going to keep me posted about the game. By the time I got home and started changing clothes it had started to rain real good and lots of lightning. Laura called back and said that the games will be played tomorrow. We did some ham, eggs and hash browns for supper, Laura dropped off Anna to PSR and then had chior. I fixed stuff for me and two boys, Adam was on his way to St. Louis with Logan and Mak for a concert and Kori was working. Keaton, Caleb and Gabe went out and played in the water after the storm, had some Boy fun and I worked on some QSL rosters. Anna got home, played and danced a bit before bed time.

Grill Out tonight...

Keaton woke up with a headache this morning so he took some medicine and went back to bed for awhile, Laura took him to school. I got to tell Anna good morning and good by today since I left a little later. Walked at the mall and talked to Dave S. about Drew today and he said that Drew was doing better and nothing seemed to be broke or out of place. He will miss the QND game tomorrow but hopefully will be back soon. After work we decided to cook out, Laura picked up some turkey steaks the other day and we did a few hamburgers too, good stuff. Was going to go out and get some cat food and stop by JJ's but ended up staying home and relaxing.