Day 2

Well, today was so much better than yesterday. I must say....I LOVE Air Conditioning. Adams School (in Janesville) didn't/doesn't have it. It truely makes a world of difference. My students could stay on task all day. It wasn't an oven in my room. It was the perfect learning environment! Today my students shared their 'brown bags' with the class. They had to select 10 items that have significance to things about them. One interesting item: One child in my class has the future plan of being a priest, another has a future plan of working at Kohls!

Jeff left for New Jersey today. He'll be gone until Friday. Jackson is really missing him!

First Day of School

Today was the first day of school for the Grubers. We all woke up early and had a nice breakfast. Grandma and Grandpa Primmer were here, as well as my Uncle Adrian and Aunt Linda. (They are on their way to Branson). We took pictures of the kids by the front door and I had to get to my school. Jeff took Joe to school first, because he had safety patrol. Joe was so proud of his work. Jeff returned to school to drop Jenna and Jackson off. He was surprised by the terrible traffic flow. I guess if you have 750 students - you may end up having 500 parents/cars. Jeff reported that it took over 20 minutes to get out of the drop off lane and get back home. Jenna didn't want to give a kiss to dear old dad. She also didn't want anyone carrying her (heavy) backpack for her. She kept on telling Jeff "I got it covered!".

I asked my principal if I could get out of school early (our school ends at 3:05 - the kids' school ends at 3:35) so I could get my kids on their first day of school. Joe had patrol duty until 3:45. I picked up the excited kids and we met our neighbors (Charlotte and Kellen) at DQ for a first day of school treat. After that I went to get Jack some new shoes (yes, his feet are growing). We all came home and pretty much 'vegged'. We are all exhausted from our day.

My day went well. I messed up taking attendance. We have to do it 'on line'. I guess I clicked on the PM attendance instead of the AM attendance......I also survived recess duty. My 4th grade team has lunch/recess duty for two straight weeks. We still get our 30 minutes of duty free lunch, but then we need to go outside to supervise for about 10 minutes. My class seems very nice. A few chatty ones, some need to work on listening, but all seem like nice kids! The principal even came in for a visit (observation) the first day. He stayed about 5 minutes while my students were telling me interesting things about themselves.

I did some major shopping (at my new favorite store: CJ Banks) this weekend and came home with 7 nice and new outfits. 6 were skirts, one pants outfit. I had many compliments on the fringie skirt I wore today. I wore some nice jewlry that my Adams School friend Mandy had made for me. Yes, I was a bit homesick for Adams - especially for my unit, friends, principal, students, and parents I know.....but, I'm sure - in time - things will feel like home here, too.

I did have a nice chat with my friend Beth Clarke this evening. She was at Adams, her kids were with mine at Jacque's house....it was so nice to get caught up. She left me a message on my cell at school, too.

So, having survived my first day at the new school, I guess it's time to go rest my head.

It's back to school time

I've started my back to school / New teacher orientation training last week. 2 full days of curricular talk, computer training, networking, etc. My brain is full! I continue with more meetings all next week. Kids did well at my neighbor (Charlotte's) house. She is going to provide child care for me during my work days as well as before and after school care for the kids.

Jeff took the kids mini golfing on Friday. Jack's first swing of the golf club ended at Jenna's eye. She has a big black eye now....just in time for school. It wouldn't be so bad if she wasn't missing her two bottom teeth. She reminds me of a hockey player, now!

Jeff is busy drywalling the basement bathroom. Yesterday he went to a golf tourney with Charlotte's husband, Scott. I took Charlotte, Kellen, and the kids to the outlet mall (Oshkosh B'gosh) .....had to get some new school clothes.

Today I may head into school to get some work done - without the kids.

LouAnn eloped

My dear cousin, LouAnn got married last Monday. She is more than a cousin to me she is the sister I never had, the maid of honor at our wedding, and Joe's Godmother. She left me a message on Friday that she won't be stopping by Omaha during their planned trip to Texas.....because they flew instead of drove. At the end of the message she said "Oh, yah, by the way, Roberto and I got married on Monday...bye."

I called her and spoke briefly to her (she was driving to Waco) and am waiting for more details soon.


Jeff has the basement bathroom plumbed and has now bought sheet rock. He'll have the basement bathroom all finished very soon!

We all went to a state park today and swam. The kids are such excellent swimmers!

Tonight at supper Jenna lost another tooth. Yes, she was eating corn on the cob. It was exactly two weeks ago tonight when she bit into some corn and lost her first tooth. Now she doesn't look like a hillbilly..... she looks like a kindergartener!

Jackson's class and misc

Today is Jackson's last day of his reading class. It has been a great success! He enjoys reading now and will read to me at bedtime! He still is a bit below grade level, but I hope he'll catch up soon. His positive attitude is payment enough. Today we will head to the public library to return some books and get more.

Last night, after bath time, Jenna thought she would investigate what Jeff does when he shaves. She helped herself to our bathroom when no one was around and created a shaving cream mess all over our bathroom. She was curious enough to actaully pick up his razor and start moving it across her face. Yes, she cut herself on the cheek. It's a very small cut and is healing nicely, but what a lesson learned! I think she scared herself enough that - messing around in the bathroom won't happen in a LONG time.

Joe is begging for Legos. He wants a job so he can buy more legos. I'm not sure how long his love of legos will last, but I'm sure they won't be around in Middle School.

I worked in my classroom yesterday. Things are looking ready for the first day of school. One week from today I start my New Teacher Orientation. Tomorrow I'm going to a brunch at a 5th grade teacher's house. I'll be able to meet some more staff members there! My mentor helped a little bit in my room yesterday. She'll be a big help.

Jeff has the basement bathroom studded, shower is in, light/fan and electrical plugs are installed and in working order. Next step is to call the plumber.

Our nephew (and Godson), Mac, completed (and won first place) in a Special Olympics fundraiser "duathlon" last weekend. He is only 4 years old and completed a 75 yard run, 300 yard bike, and a second 75 yard run. Here is the recap from his parents: Before the air horn sounded, all 10 lanes were filled up with fired-up munchkins. Mac came out of the gates like a thoroughbred and soon ran passed the "pace-setter" who was supposed to show the racers where to go on the course. Being first to reach the bikes, Mac had no obstacles while riding, except for his feverish speed, which caused his crowd-gasping crash; but without flinching, Mac popped back onto his bike and took-off, never losing his lead. By the time he ran through the finish line (after the second phase of running), the next closest competitor had not yet got off of his bike to even start running. The contrast between Mac's big-person determination and his little-person helmet and legs, made the crowd really roar when he came into the home stretch for the victory. In no less of a dramatic fashion, at the award ceremony, with the kids up on Olympic type podiums, the MC declared " History was made today at our Inaugural Duathlon... Mac Strand becomes our first ever Gold Medal Champion!". His mother was nearly brought to tears, and his father wished some of the "men" he coached had half of Mac's fortitude...


So, that's the latest in our lives. Tomorrow I want to take the kids to see the movie "The Ant Bully" - I should get the book from the library and read it to them first!

The Living Room is painted

Starla and I started painting the living room on Wednesday. We painted one wall "umber". It is a very dark brown. We also painted one of the walls "Macadamia". Jeff and I finished the other two "Macadamia" walls on Thursday night. I must say, it looks GREAT. Jeff isn't too sure he likes the lone "umber" wall, but it is a nice accent.

I'm eager to paint more now. I like the look color adds to the warmth of the house.

A visit from Starla

My dear friend, Starla, has been visiting since Saturday. She lives in River Falls, Wisconsin. Joining her during her visit are her children, Rayna (5) and Dane (2). Jenna has been so happy to have Rayna here to play dress-up, Polly Pockets, and everyother girl thing.

We have kept busy. Sunday we all went to church and then did a little shopping. I bought a small blow up pool (for only $8) and the kids have used it everyday since. We had a little pool party with a new neighbor Kelly and her daughter Katelyn. The kids ran back and forth from their yard to our yard. Sunday evening Starla, my neighbor Charlotte, and I went to the Melting Pot for a special birthday dinner for Starla. It was an awesome time! Jeff was a great babysitter and chef to all 5 kids! He seemed to love spending time with Dane! He has been busy working on the basement getting the bathroom going.

Monday went to the Omaha Zoo. The kids did great in the 90 degree heat. We stayed cool in the buildings. After the zoo we all took a nap.....We had more pool time with a different neighbor (also named Kelli) and her daughter Drew. Kelli is also a teacher.

Tuesday Charlotte and Kellen came over for an early morning playdate. Jackson had school. After I picked Jack up from school we got ready to go on our daily adventure. We visited the Mormon Trail Pioneer Museum. It was a small museum, but the perfect size for our tired kids. After the museum we drove to see Cunningham Lake. We were surprised that this lake no longer exists. It is all dried up. After our disappointing visit to the lake we drove past my school. We did another detour to Cold Stone Creamery to get a birthday cake for Starla. By the time we got home everyone was ready for a little rest time. For supper we went (with Charlotte and Kellen) to "The Amazing Pizza Machine". It was a pizza buffet with a salad, taco, pasta, baked potato, and dessert bar. We also did some games. I won all of the kids a stuffed animal from the claw machine (my dad would be so proud!!!). Kids had a great time. We ended the night with a swim in .....the POOL! Joe had filled the pool up in the morning, so that water was the perfect temperature by 7:45 PM! Kids swam for an hour. Now it is time for bed! I'm sure they will have a good night's sleep. Joe didn't wake up this morning until 9:00. (HUMMMM, he must get that from me!) Tomorrow we may actually PAINT the living room! I'm thinking of a nice creamy dark brown for one wall and another lighter brown for the other 3 walls. Starla and family will have to leave on Thursday. I sure will miss my time with them! We've gotten a lot of chatting in!

Jenna lost a tooth

Jenna bit into some sweet corn for supper on Sunday, July16 and said "My tooth is about to fall out!" After looking at it in the mirror (and taking a picture of her hanging tooth) she continued on with her supper. After her second bite of corn she exclaimed "MY TOOTH DID JUST FALL OUT!!!" Now she looks a little bit like a hill-billy! So, she put the tooth under her pillow and the toothfairy took her tooth and left an Angelina Ballerina book and some money! Wow! Is our little girl growing up!

Time to finish the basement

We have spent some time lately thinking about finishing the basement.
We had a plumber out here to give us an estimate on putting the water softener in. That will probably get finished tomorrow. We also had Buck from Hearthstone Homes (our builder) talk us through what we need to do to first finish the basement bathroom and then the rest of the basement. We are now HOT to get it done! The bathroom shower will need to be our major decission. It will have to fit in a certain space with the drain in the correct location. After that the rest of the bathroom should fall into place. We will hire the plumbing out to someone else. I wouldn't be surprised if Jeff showed up tonight with lumber and a shower! I've done some school supply shopping. Walmart has SALES!!! 10 cents for note books and 20 cents for crayons (24 count). The kids and I had fun looking for deals. I may take a trip to my school today to drop off some things I purchased for organization in my room. Joe had the stomach flu yesterday, but seems better today. Jenna is crabby and just woke up (it's 1:15) from an hour long (and much needed) nap. Jackson (AKA "The Professor" - because of the summer school classes he is taking) has been working hard at his reading/writing class. I've seen some good improvement!

Now we are gearing up for a visit from Starla and kids. I can't wait to take them to the zoo and a pool. It's suppose to be hot, so we might just stay in and stay cool!

Busy Busy Busy

Well, I thought I had better update our blog before I forget all of the exciting things we have been busy doing.

My parents visited with Rusty and Shadow (their Golden Retrievers). They arrived on Friday, June 23 and left Thursday, June 29. While here they were able to see the ConAgra campus as well as the company store, see the kids' school, take Jack to his reading class, help with some projects around the house, and just hang out. After they left, we decided to head to Wisconsin for the 4th of July weekend.

We left Omaha on Friday, June 30. The morning was very frustrating because I got my oil changed in the van and the workers knocked a wire that caused my engine light to turn on. It took over an hour to fix the problem! This caused me to be delayed on our departure time. So, Jeff had to come back home to help load the van - we got off our departure time by about 1 1/2 hours. We arrived in Ellsworth friday night - slept at Frank and Margaret's - and left Saturday for Minog. Jeff drove Frank's truck (with Frank and Jack) towing the boat. Margaret traveled with Joe, Jenna, and me in the van. We had a blast at Sue and Steve's cabin (Jeff's sister and brother - in - law). Sarah, Andy, and kids (Jeff's other sister and brother - in - law) were there too. We pitched out tents (one for the boys and the other for Jeff, Jenna, and me).

Sunday, July 2 we spent the day on the water of Lake St. Croix. We visited with some friends of the family. While on the lake, Jenna rode a jet ski, Jack rode in a tube behind a boat, and both boys rode in on a sting ray (that can hold 3 people). Jeff tried the jet ski, but didn't much care for it. I just enjoyed the sun and worked on my tan!!!

Monday we went to the public beach on Lake St. Croix. Kids were getting tired and crabby! We left that afternoon to head back to Ellsworth for an overnight (and a shower!).

July 4th we drove back to Omaha. We were eager to get home (and clean the van). That night we walked to the park (4 houses away) and set up chairs to see the fireworks of the city. It was an amazing site!

Jeff had to work on Wednesday and I did laundry. Jackson attended his reading class.

Thursday I had a meeting with the principal of my new school and our friends from Janesville (Glenn and Linda McWilliams) arrived with their camper. Jackson wasn't feeling very well - and ended up throwing up a few times. I picked them up at the campground and they came back for supper.

Friday was a rainy day so we didn't go to the zoo as planned. Jackson was still sick and Glenn was having camper problems..... So, we just hanged out. When Jeff came home Linda and I went to do some shopping. I found some great deals at my new favorite store CJ Banks. I ended up with 4 new outfits.

Saturday was filled with fun. We started our day with breakfast at the camper. Bacon, Texas French Toast, and pancakes. Interesting fact: Texas Toast in Wisconsin is BIGGER than Texas Toast in Nebraska.

After breakfast we headed to downtown Omaha. We drove around the ConAgra Campus and parked to walk around the 'Old Market' area. After a couple of hours we went to the Botanical Gardens. The Gardens will have to be a stopping point for all future visitors. It was amazing. There is a picture at the top of this blog of one of the gardens (Glenn took it) to show how great it is.

After the Botanical Gardens we headed to Lincoln. We had a nice drive. Linda and I took a power nap while the kids watch "Chicken Little". Once we got to Lincoln we first went to a licorice store. All they sold there was licorice and licorice flavored items. Apparently, it is the only store like it. Here is the web address: www.licoriceinternational.com

We got a few items there and then went to the next store. That souviener store had wine tasting going on. Every other Saturday they have wine tasting of Nebraska Vinyards. I purchased two different bottles and look forward to tasting them soon. We ended our long day with an early supper at a brew pub. The food was excellent - and we are eager for the newest restaurant to open a few blocks from our home.

On our drive home we drove past the Cornhusker Football Stadium. "Go Big Red!"

Sunday we spent the morning at home. We went to church, ate breakfast, then went out to the campground. We decided to spend the afternoon by the pool. Since check out was earlier - it was as if we had the pool to ourselves. The kids all had a great time. (So did the adults).
Brats at our house for supper.

Monday our plans to go to the zoo were spoiled by the rain. Instead we had a nice visit from the Mike Tollefson family (Jaci's cousin). Jenna had a wonderful time playing with her second cousin, Anna. Both of the girls are 5 and will be in kindergarten next year. I hope they will be able to spend more time together as other family events. Mike's wife, Mary, is from Omaha and they were here visiting her parents.

That afternoon we toured my school and went to the movie CARS!!! It was a great movie. I would recommend it to all!

Monday night was sad....not only because I wasn't beating Glenn in gin, but because we had to say goodbye! Glenn and Linda headed back to Janesville on Tuesday morning.

I was a wonderful visit with super memories!

I got the job!

It is now 1:12 and I just got off the phone with the principal from Grace Abbott. He called at 1:06 PM and offered me the job of 4th grade teacher. I, of course, accepted. After I feed the kids (fish sticks) I will head over to the school and tour my room and get the curriculum and books. Big celebration will be happening in Omaha tonight!!!!!

Busy Friday

It was an amazing Friday. I started my day by dropping Jackson and Jenna off for their last day of summer school. After I dropped them off, I headed to my 9:00 AM interview. The positions are for 2- 4th grade classrooms. I think things went very well. The principal, in fact, called me at 1:30 to let me know I am their #1 pick after the day's interviews. However, he did make it known that he had 4 more interviews on Monday. He wanted to know if I had any other job prospects. I had told him earlier that I interviewed at another elementary school in the district, but that I hadn't heard from them yet, which makes me think I'm not in the running. The principal then informed me that the 8:00 AM interview candidate cancelled his/her interview because they accepted the position at the other elementary school. The principal also mentioned that he called and talked to Kitty Grant (my Adams principal) and Rod Montanye (science curriculum coordinator). He tried to call Karen Beige, but only got her classroom voice mail - so I gave him her home number. I also called Karen and told her some areas I didn't get to mention during my interview - she called the principal - and then called me back. She got a very positive feeling. So, I'll keep everyone posted.

After the interview I was able to pick up my antique bed frame. I had it refinished (sand blasted and painted). It looks great in Jenna's room, except the new box spring and mattress don't fit in it.

I then picked up the kids from summer school and took them to Burger King for a special lunch and play time. We were helping another family out by taking their daughter (Madison) to and from summer school. She gets along great with all 3 kids. She will be in 3rd grade next year.

We got home around 1:30 - Jeff got home from work shortly after (early summer hours) - the mom came to get Madison and then the principal called. It was a crazy time here!

After Madison left, Jeff took Jackson and Jenna to the Gretna swimming pool. Joe wanted some mom time, so we played Monolopy.

When Jeff and the kids got home we ate a quick supper of sandwiches before we had to head to the last night of Vacation Bible School. It was a very long day for Jenna. She didn't feel very good during VBS and by the time we got home she vomited in the car! We got her cleaned up and the car cleaned up.....she go tucked in her bed (with a bucket).....and were ready to relax infront of the TV watching "Ocean's 12". All of a sudden at about 11:30 PM there was a knock on our door. It was my PARENTS!! For some reason, I thought they were going to be here on Saturday (today). My house wasn't quite set for their visit ..... but then again, is it every ready. We got the dogs walked, everyone settled, and we went to bed. I should know about the job on Monday or Tuesday..... so I will keep you posted!

It's been a very busy week!

Vacation Bible School

This week is VBS (Vacation Bible School). Everyone in the family is involved in this wonderful activity. I'm part of the 'light blue' crew. I'm a co-leader for a group of 8 preschoolers. Jenna is also in my crew. Jeff has helped in registration and in the snack area. He has mentioned how well organized VBS is. He was never able to see what it was all about because VBS was during the day in Janesville. Joe is in the white crew(grades 4-6). Yesterday he read the bible 'treasure verse' in front of everyone. He did an excellent job. I'm surprised he volunteered to do something like that (especially since he is the one who didn't really want to do VBS.....I forced him to do it!) Jackson is in the dark blue crew (grades 1-3). We are collecting items for people who don't have the basics for life...yesterday we collected toothpaste. Today is shampoo. Tomorrow and Friday are underwear and socks. Sunday at 10:30 church the VBS participants will sing some songs and show all that we did! Perhaps I'll work on posting some pics from vacation today! Ma and Pa Primmer may come for a visit tomorrow. They will bring Rusty and Shadow with them! Jeff is taking the ConAgra Jet to Orlando for IFT (convention) on Sunday. It's a one day trip. Very cool that he'll be on the corporate jet!!

Monday, June 19

YEAH for Monday. Jackson and Jenna are in their final week of Summer School. The boys have doctor appointments today. We will all be at VBS (Vacation Bible School) this week from 5:30 to 8:30. I'm a crew leader for the preschoolers (Jenna is in my class). Jeff will work the registration table. The kids will attend.

We had a nice weekend. We were sad the Jeff's dad wasn't feeling well and they had to postpond their trip down here to see us. We look forward to showing them around!

Friday my neighbor Charlotte and I went to a music bar in Omaha to hear the music of Vicky Emerson. Check out her music at www.vickyemerson.com. She is an old UWRF gal. We have mutual friends, but this was the first time we had met. Char and I stayed for the first set, but it was late so we left as she was about to start the second set. Before the concert we tried out a new restaurant called the Mongolian Hut. You get a bowl and add meat, then noodles, than veggies, and at least 5 sauces and they grill it on a HUGE round grill. It cooks down nicely and serve it with rice. It's suppose to be an all you can eat, but after one helping - I was stuffed! I can see it as an adult only place. I'm not sure my kids would appreciate it! After some great conversations we got home about 11:00PM. I stayed up with Jeff as he finished watching the movie Contact.

Saturday was a day at home. We did the usual household chores.

Sunday we Celebrated Father's Day. We had a light breakfast, let Jeff open his gifts, and went to church. After church we headed to "Up Stream Brewery" for brunch! Again, I can see this as more of an adult restaurant. The kids weren't that used to waiting for food. However, the food was great! We all enjoyed tasting the home 'root beer' brew. After brunch we headed home to get our swimming suits on. We decided to check out the Platte River and walk on the sand bars and swim in the river. The kids had a blast! I got my flipflops caught under some sand and needed help to dig it out! After our first river stop we decided to go to a State Park and swim. Once we got there we realized we didn't have enough money to pay at the pool (we had a state park sticker to get in, but needed $14.50 for the pool and we only had $9.00). So, we went to a different part of the Platte River. This part was deeper and the river was flowing faster. At one time Jackson and Jenna put their faces underwater and I couldn't see them. This FREAKED me out (you have to imagine a fast current and kids who don't swim). So, I pulled the plug on the fun and said it was time to go! The kids were disappointed, but better safe than sorry.

We arrived home. Kids watched "Hoodwinked" and Jeff and I layed in the sun in the back yard. We all cleaned up and got the river smell off of us and grilled out. Kids went to bed early, and so did we! It was a great day!

Job Interviews

I had another job interview today. 5th grade at a school 5 minutes from home. I thought it went very well, but since I have no previous experience teaching 5th grade...who knows what the outcome will be.

I have a job interview next week friday for a 4th and 5th grade position. This school is a bit farther away.

I'll keep you posted on the outcomes!

Vacation - Part 3: Clintonville and camping

Sunday we arrived in Clintonville. The kids must have played hard with their cousins, because they were quiet on the ride there. The trip from Lake Mills to Clintonville was also the shortest trip during our vacation.

The week was filled with Joe attending "Nature Quest". "Nature Quest" is the week long camping class that my parents teach for summer school. My Uncle Loren, Aunt Jenese, and Aunt Jean were all there, too. "Rebecca / Becky / Beck" (from Viroqua) was there too. She is an Americorp member with my Aunt Jean. The Aunties kept the "home base" in running order and kept their eyes on Jackson and Jenna. I helped out at camp.

Joe had a blast learning how to make a fire from one match (He is a member of the one match club), cooking over the campfire, canoeing, fishing and fish identification, as well as tent setting up (and taking down). There were 30 campers all together and they were such a nice group of kids. Many of them are children of kids I went to school with.

Tuesday was a rainy day, so we held the camping class inside the Clintonville Middle School. Beck and I were in charge of 'fish painting'. We had to apply paint to these rubber fish (that were rather authentic looking) and have the campers place a kitchen towel (the flour sack kind) over the painted fish. This, of course, left a fish imprint. The towels turned out very colorful! It was a full day process and I can't imagine doing it outside at the 'land' without a sink!!!

Wednesday of the camping week Jack, Jenna, the Aunties, and I headed to Appleton for a morning trip. Everything was fine at the camping class and I wasn't needed. While in Appleton we shopped at JanSport. Jenna and Jackson got new sweatshirts, I got a backpack and a few things for Jeff. After shopping we went out to lunch. We selected a Baker's Square. It has been a very long time since I was at a Baker's Square. We had a nice lunch and just had to try the pie!!!

Thursday and Friday were about the same. Kids were 'testing out' of their canoe requirements, building fires, playing camp games (fisbee golf), and doing a compass course. Thursday lunch was so awesome because the campers got to choose from making an omlett in a ziplock bag in boiling water, hot dogs over the camp fire, or a 'foil' meal. Jackson and I choose the foil meal. We put burger, potatoes, onions, carrots, butter, and about 2 tablespoons of water in a double layer of alum. foil. These foil meals were then placed in the coals of the big campfire and set to cook for about 35 minutes. I tried to change Joe's mind about the hot dog he choose, but he wouldn't do it. Luckily (for him) I shared my meal and got him hooked on the love of the 'foil' meal.

Friday was the big sleepover night. Chili was served (my kids are a little picky, so when I went to town to pick up Jenna and Aunt Jean, I ran through the McDonald's drive through. Jackson, however, loved the chili and ate 3 bowls full. We had fun singing around the campfire and finally I tucked the kiddos in bed in the pop-up camper my parents have out at the land. Everyone slept hard. Joe had promised a few campers that he would be their alarm clock. He was the LAST KID AWAKE!!! Some alarm clock he turned out to be!!!

We broke camp and went back to the house in town. I took a hot tub to massage my back. The kids all hung out in front of the TV. Finally we packed up the van for the start of our long return home. I was going to break it up into 2 days so I wouldn't have to drive 10 hours in one day. We left Clintonville about 3PM. We stopped by in Boyd,WI to see Jeff's Uncle Martin. Stopped in Cadot for our supper break and arrived inEllsworth about 8PM. Kids took some quick baths and went right to sleep. Margaret and talked for a little bit before we both hit the hay (around 9:15!) I was very tired and slept so well!

Sunday we got loaded quickly and headed for Omaha. The drive took 7 hours. I still took some breaks, but they weren't as long. Joe did a great job of keeping me entertained in the front seat. Kids were rather well behaved! We couldn't wait to see Jeff! We missed him so much! He had a very lovely meal waiting planned for our arrival. The best part was the chalk sign he made on the drive way. It read "Welcome Home Family" in the middle of a heart. Around the heart he wrote "Jaci, Joe, Jackson, Jenna, and Van".

The interesting thing to note here is that as I was driving I couldn't help but think of our wonderful family and my very best friends that I was able to see during my trip. I was thinking that I may never have as good of friends as these wonderful women! About 20 minutes after I got home my neighbor Charlotte called. She said, "I know you just go home and I'm not going to come over, but you may NOT go on vacation for that long again! We missed you!" Now, if that isn't a sign from God that I will have dear friends here, I'm not sure what is!!!!! I'm lucky to have her as a neighbor!

Vacation - part 2: Janesvlle / Lake Mills

We arrived in Janesville about 2:45 PM. The kindergarteners were getting of the bus from the farm field trip. We couldn't wait to get hugs from Miss Dhom and Miss Gogul. Once we walked into school Mrs. Biege's class grabbed us. They were at the school store in the auditorium. The class was so amazed at how much Joe had grown. I was shocked to see how they all grew this year. We checked in at the office. Mrs. Grant was busy with a parent.....so we headed up to the 4th grade classrooms. Joe loved seeing his buddies. We headed to 3rd grade to see Mrs. Borchardt. Joe is almost as tall as her. I think we shocked her. She wasn't used to seeing us just show up! Jackson needed a trip to 1st grade to see his buddy Kayley. We did some more walking around and got to see the 5th graders (my last class) as they were leaving for the end of the day. They, too, have grown.

We got to see Mrs.Grant and everyone one else!

Time to head over to they Kelley home and meet baby TJ.

We stayed a short while. The kids had fun playing with Kayley. I had fun holding the baby. TJ is so adorable.

We headed out about 6:00 - we had promised to get KFC for supper at Don and Rachel's. We arrived at the Primmers about 3 minutes before Don arrived with some of the kids (Rachel and Kate had book club). I guess I picked up too much chicken, because it took forever to finish!

Friday we headed to Janesville for a visit with Jacque Derhammer (our former babysitter), lunch at subway, another visit with Julie Buckman and kids, a short visit at the Kelley home. We finished our big visit day with a trip to Grandma Linda's. We stayed long enough to get a visit in, but when Linda and I get together....there is never enough time! We could talk FOREVER! I enjoyed a glass of wine (Thanks Glenn!!!) and got to see the beautiful redecorating job in the living room.

By the end of the day we were ready for bed!!!

Saturday was Jaci out by herself day. Rachel agreed to watch the kids (on top of her 4 - Don had to work in Illinois). I started out my day with brunch at newly remodled home of Kitty and Mike Hinaus. I started tearing up as soon as I walked in. There they were....my teaching buddies from Adams School. Karla Vriezen, Tiana Borchardt, Laura Loizzo, Linda McWilliams, Teresa Ludeking, Carol Tyriver, Bonnie Schauder, Diane Murphy, Dottie May, (Kitty Grant left before I got there) all looked so wonderful. The brunch and converstation (and laughs) were exactly what I needed.

After the brunch I headed to the home of Terri Kislia for the baby shower for Stacy and TJ Kelley. It was a great gathering of friends - I loved seeing everyone. Attending were: Julie and Carson Buckman, Stephanie Gogul, Amy Dhom, Jodi Adler, Melissa Griffin, Liza Witt, Kitty Grant, Bonnie Schauder, Deb Somerville, Mandy Zdrale, Sarah Rao, and Terri and Sam Kislia. Stacy received some very nice gifts. I think TJ will be the best dressed baby in Janesville. I was doing rather well (emotionally) until Amy wanted a hug and told me she missed me. I just lost it - and had a difficult time recovering from my 'cry fest'. I think I realized that the distance is long, that these women are amazing, and that I miss being a part of their daily lives. I tried to leave when Kitty and Mandy left - which was rather abruptly, but I couldn't imagin getting my composure back while still seeing my friends and missing them. I headed to school to talk to Mandy. Her grandmother just passed away and I wanted to make sure she was ok. I then called Linda and we worked in Karen's room trying to pack it up. Karen had a medical issue with Justin and missed the brunch and shower. She accepted a Library Media Specialist job at Lincoln Elementary School and needed to pack up her room. Linda and I worked about 2 hours trying to sort things and box things up. Linda and I went to supper together (Glenn was in Conn.) and continued our visiting. Then I said good-bye to Janesville and headed to Don and Rachel's. Linda was going to head back to school with Karen and finish up her room.

Sunday we packed up and ended the second part of our vacation. We loaded the van and headed to Clintonville.

Vacation - part 1: Ellsworth

Vacation started on Tuesday, May 30. We left Nebraska and started our drive to Ellsworth, WI. It took us 8 hours. I got some new DVDs to keep the kids entertained in the car. They are into the Nickelodeon show "Avatar". I got 3 hours of Avatar on DVD. We took some time to have a long lunch (Culvers!!!) and a few rest breaks. Finally, we got to Grandma and Grandpa Gruber's house. Jackson had fun helping Grandpa in his garden. I used our new camera and video taped Grandma Gruber showing us her flowers and garden.

Wednesday we helped Grandma Gruber in the garden. I even got the rotatiller going. Kids had fun outside watering eachother - oops I mean watering the flowers. My friend Starla came over for a nice visit. Her daughter, Rayna, and Jenna had a fun time in the dress-ups. Little man, Dane, wanted to be with the boys and the cars. That evening we went to River Falls to visit with the Dzubay family and see their new puppy 'Spud'. He is so cute! It was a wonderful visit. When we got home I heard from Jeff to call my friend Stacy. Stacy was in the hospital - getting ready to have her baby. Little TJ wanted to come early - he wasn't due until June 20. Our plan was to be at Adams School in Janesville on Thursday for the school shower for Stacy. TJ wanted to change that plan. I went to bed wondering if my phone would ring in the middle of th night.....

Thursday, we got ready to head to Janesville. No call during the middle of the night. I had to find the news, so I called my friend, Jodi Adler. She gave me the news that Theodore John Kelley was born on May 31. He was 7 pounds, 7 oz. 21 inches long. Interesting, Theodore's big sister, Kayley, was born May 1 and Stacy and Monty's anniversary is May 21!

Part 2 will start in Janesville.....stay tuned!

Home from Vacation

We are home from our WI vacation. I will update the blog when I have time. Needless to say it was a great week full of babies being born (2), an engagement, laughter and tears. The kids had a great time and we all survived 2 weeks without Jeff. We are glad to be home.

I have another job interview tomorrow. 5th grade for Wheeler Elementary here in the Millard School District.

Will update soon.