Life Adventures : Miller Style

Big kids

2009-09-27T21:36:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how quickly Ava and Harrison have become a second grader and kindergartener. They are so grown up -

Ava is swimming, telling jokes, able to unload the dishwasher, and completing some homework without us doing each item with her.
Harrison is counting to several hundred by 1s, 2s, 5s, and 10s. He is beginning to add and subtract, starting to spell, draws well, plays baseball, and likes monopoly.
They are becoming their own people. Although we do have trying moments (daily), I am very lucky!

School and Running

2009-07-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have had a few requests for updates..
What is Hill doing all summer??? Summer school principal and RUNNING!
I shouldn't post all the interesting happenings of summer school in a very poor, urban, California district, so I am going to post the link to my running blog. I will be putting updates there through October when I run a marathon!!
If you haven't had a chance to donate, please consider it (and tell your friends)! It is a great cause!!
http://pages.teamintraining.org/sj/nikesf09/hmillers00

Run, Run, Eat, Eat, Eat...and Run.

2009-03-22T19:37:00.001-07:00

Wendy and I are all signed up to run the Bay to Breakers in May, and still training! We've been running nearly daily for over 3 weeks now, and have successfully run 5 miles a few times now. In 6 weeks, I hope to be able to do the 7.46 we have signed up for!!
Wen is in Mexico at a fancy spa for the week (birthday gift), so Mike ran with me both Saturday and today. We hired a babysitter to come over for an hour and a half today so we could go together- totally worth it.
Harrison's birthday is Wednesday - can't believe he'll be 5. Crazy...
Last week we celebrated my birthday (thanks for all the well wishes!) with an ice cream cake and Thai food with the Spies. (see picture of Carsten, me, and a yummy cake).
On Friday we celebrated Wendy's birthday with Sushi and Cupcakes (see picture of Wendy, Ava, Harrison, and August).
I also included a picture of Ava reading to Harrison - love that one!
Thank goodness I am running so much - between all the birthday celebrations, and food related fundraisers (Ava's school, my schools, and GIRL SCOUT cookies) I would weigh 500 pounds if I weren't - b/c we all know I can't say no to food!! :-)

Where did February go?

2009-03-01T20:18:00.000-08:00

Harrison and I had a great trip to Shreveport last weekend. I saw a bunch of old friends, ate well, saw my grandma and grandpa, and spent a lot of time with my parents. Ava and Mike stayed in California and toured the city/did really fun stuff as well.

Wendy and I are planning to run the 12K Bay to Breakers in May. I registered today, and began training last week. Hopefully, I'll keep it up through the spring and be ready by May. Anybody want to do it with us?

Work is crazy busy. Mike's company is set to announce their product later this month, so he's working a lot. He took Ava to work with him on saturday. They stayed most of the day - which was totally fine with Ava. Mike's boss' daughter (Ana) is in Ava's Sunday school class, so they had a great time playing with Ana's Littlest Pet Shop toys and watching 12 Dancing Princesses. It's testing season in the education world, so I'm pretty strapped for time as well. I am also planning summer school for the district (will be the principal of summer school, too). It's an honor - but a huge challenge. Basically was given a(n economically challenging) budget and told to go for it. Hopefully I pass the test.

Weekend

2009-02-01T20:16:00.001-08:00

Great weekend. Had to work yesterday while Mike took the kids to gymnastics and the park. By the time I got home around 3:30, Ava had ridden her bike with no training wheels!! Woot!
Ava and I invaded the Spies house last night while the Houghtons were over. It was great to see them. Calder is getting SO BIG. It's really fun to see the way he and August interact. If one of them has a toy, they both have to. They don't play together much, it's more - "how can I get you jealous?"
Today was Sunday School, and Super Bowl. Great game again over at the Spies. Eric, Lisa, and Darwin were over. Darwin just turned two - very well behaved, happy little guy.
Managed to run both Saturday and Sunday - hope to keep it up throughout the week.

Going to Shreveport in a couple of weeks with Harrison!! I can't wait to see everyone!

little boys

2009-01-26T18:34:00.001-08:00

I don't know how people who have more than one or two boys do it...
When I pick Harrison up from preschool lately, I get more and more notices about his behavior. Today he pushed a little boy down because he was "trying to help him". The little boy hit his head pretty hard. Later in the day, Harrison spit on another little kid "because he said he was going to spit on me first". Harrison doesn't even know how to blow his nose!! How can he know how to spit!
I don't remember issues like this with Ava in preschool, and frankly, I am not sure how to deal with them. With her, it was more "your daughter walked into a door and got a bump on her head", she never hurt others.

My dear friends with sons...got ideas?

flying by

2009-01-25T13:13:00.001-08:00

This week went by so fast! Monday was a holiday, Tuesday was the inauguration (WOOT!), Thursday I had training at the county office of education all day, and Friday afternoon I was in a training down in San Jose. Technically, I had a 4 day work week, but I only had to really think for about 2 1/2 of those days. Very cool.

I spent most of the day yesterday outside. Even though it's been raining and cool out, I felt the need to ride by bike and go for a couple of walks. It felt good. I rode over to the Spies' house and back, and to the grocery store. While the kids were at gymnastics, Mike and I walked at the Baylands preserve across from gymnastics, and then I took Oscar for a stroll after dark last night. Hope the rain holds off long enough today so I can get outside.

On another note...
I saw a Ferrari (may be been 2 years old) pulling into Taco Bell this week. Think the driver just loves Taco Bell, or is it the economy? :-)

Sacramento

2009-01-18T21:29:00.001-08:00

We visited Sacramento this weekend. A two hour drive away, it was a perfect overnight trip. We stayed with our friends from Austin, the Thronsons, who moved to California late last summer. Although Eric had to work the entire weekend (works as an analyst for the state - Gov's budget came in and has to be approved...or not...soon), we had Tara as our personal tour guide. They were great hosts = Tara cooked a yummy breakfast for us, and introduced us to their neighborhood bakery. It would be dangerous to have a shop full of doughnuts, cookies, and cakes that close to my house!
While in Sacramento, we took a tour of the capitol building, went to the farmer's market, drank lots of coffee, and visited the California State Railroad Museum. The museum was amazing! I learned a lot of 4th grade trivia while touring the capitol.

Someone I know is a designer...

2008-12-06T21:09:00.000-08:00

http://www.cafepress.com/SomalianPirates

Great weekend - mom's here!! Yay!

Good Sunday

2008-11-23T19:26:00.001-08:00

This morning was "advent family day" at church. The four of us went and made an advent calendar. Ava and Harrison were totally into it. It is now hanging on our fridge - the kids waiting for December 1st so they can unroll the first scroll to find our task.
After lunch we headed up to the city with Oscar. We met Jeri and her dog Copper at the beach for some good doggie play time. Oscar was in full puppy mode - he took off several times, but we managed to round him up before losing him completely.

My little FlyingCopPilotFirefighter

2008-11-22T18:17:00.001-08:00

I love that both my children still love to pretend. Here's one of Harrison playing in the backyard the other day.

safety

2008-11-15T19:32:00.000-08:00

People get all crazy when they get laid off. Yesterday a man who works in the town next to us (who lives in the town we do) shot up his office building after being laid off . He killed three people in his company (CEO, VP, and HR director). It sucks. As the economy gets worse and worse, more people lose jobs. You never know which ones are the crazies...this guy had his phD, two kids and a wife. he just lost it... I think 5 people have been murdered all year in the area - this makes 8 - rattles us when such a safe area deals with real world issues - everything becomes so close.

Veteren's Day Holiday

2008-11-11T17:10:00.000-08:00

Schools are closed today, so I spent the day with Ava and Harrison. Ava's daycare was going roller-skating, but since she isn't a fan, I decided to do something fun with just the three of us. After we met Mike at PF Changes, the kids and I saw Madagascar 2. While it wasn't the world's best movie, it was quite entertaining for both adults and children. It's really fun to watch movies with my kids. They stare at the movie screen and laugh hysterically at totally appropriate parts - but very loudly. It's great...

And yes - I did spend a few minutes attempting to explain to Harrison and Ava what Veterens are. They don't quite get it; I don't think they understand what "war" is. I told them as much as I could about soldiers who keep us safe, but I didn't explain what war is. I'll give that one a little time.

Oscar has a make over...

2008-11-08T16:05:00.000-08:00

We finally took Oscar for a good grooming today. He looks like a different dog (see before and after pictures).

Trip to Louisiana

2008-11-05T20:53:00.000-08:00

We had a great time visiting my parents in Louisiana this weekend. The kids dressed up as a police officer (Harrison) and a witch (Ava) to celebrate Halloween. Mike's parents also came to visit - so it was a treat for the kids to be spoiled during every waking moment. We went to the State Fair, trick or treating, visited my grandmother, and went fishing. Mom, Ava, and I shopped on Saturday while the rest of the gang watched football and rested at the house. I think I gained 5 pounds from all the yummy food, but it was great. A couple of pictures are posted in my Picasa.

Off to Louisiana!

2008-10-29T22:31:00.000-07:00

We leave in the morning for a weekend with family in Louisiana. Both sets of grandparents will be there - and it's rumored that our brother Jason will make an appearance.

Harrison is dressing up as a police officer (like his Uncle Matt), and Ava is dressing up like a witch (like her Aunt ______ ). You can fill in the blank. :-) just kidding...kind of.

Wendy has been fighting off contractions/preterm labor for the passed few days, and her doctor has now given her new medication and moved her from "modified" to full bedrest. Gosh I hope the baby stays cooking for at least a few more weeks... If he came today, he'd be more than 2 months early - she's at 31 weeks. I am sure he'd be totally fine - but it would be a lot nicer to have a healthy 7 pounder come out that is only a short way from sleeping through the night!!

Growing up

2008-10-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

Mike and I met Ava's teacher today for parent conferences. She is doing so well in 1st grade! Yay! Of course (she is our child) she has a little difficulty listening to the teacher when she is with friends; but other than that, she is doing at or above grade level expectations. I am so proud of her - and glad we didn't wait a year (until she was 5) to put her in kindergarten.
Each day this week when we get home from school/work Harrison doesn't even come in the house. He either jumps on his bike and rides down the street to see if his friends are out playing, or grabs the bucket of sidewalk chalk and goes to town. He draws the cutest pictures, and has even started writing words. He writes the abcs, his name, "hot", "stop", and "NO Ava". Pretty funny.

So I read tonight that scientists may have found a cure for ms: It just amazes me how scientists keep focused on the same thing for so many years, and then one day - there is an answer. I hope it works out.

David Byrne, cops/robbers, and Yosemite

2008-10-18T15:54:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Mike and I met some friends at the Symphony Hall in San Francisco to see David Byrne. The concert was so much fun! I sware - "burning down the house" is still in my head. :-)
The following day I was at work when I heard a car crash outside my office. I looked and saw a guy running away from the scene and jump a fence. Immediately between 90 and 100 police from all over (San Jose, Santa Clara, East Palo Alto) show up with helmets, vests, and automatic weapons. Our district office went into lockdown and I didn't manage to get out of there until about 6:45 that evening. The unfortunate thing was that I didn't have my computer in the room where we ended up in lockdown - so my boss, one other coworker and I (we were the only ones left the last 2 hours) hung out watching the cops. If you have ever seen "The Wire", it was EXACTLY like that.
This past weekend, we went camping in Yosemite. It was amazing. We stayed in a bed and breakfast Friday, and the housekeeping camp Saturday and Sunday nights. The kids are big enough to really have fun these days. We rode bikes, hiked, roasted marshmallows and hot dogs, and had Sunday brunch at the Ahwahnee hotel. It was fancy, but luckily there were other campers there who were dressed (and not recently bathed) like us!! Sunday (there was a full moon) we drove to the southern part of Yosemite to explore Mariposa grove. It hosts the biggest Giant Sequoia tree in the park - it was astonishing. On the way back to the camp, both kids were completely worn out - and ...puked. ARGH. Ava managed to puke out of the car - she actually did it at an amazing area where we could see the moon, sunset, and half dome - Mike took this picture while I held her hair back. :-) Shortly after Ava, Harrison decided to do the same - only he gave NO warning. It was a nasty mess. We are now OFFICIAL parents, i guess. Mike got the minivan detailed when we got home on Tuesday - it now looks (and smells) new. More Pictures

crafty?

2008-09-25T22:07:00.000-07:00

It's another cloud-free 70 degree beautiful day in Mountain View.
Before dinner, we walked over to the park with the kids and Oscar to play/ride bikes. We met Oscar's friends and wore everyone out.
After dinner there was a fundraiser for Ava's school over at one of her friend's house. Basically 8-10 women got together and made greeting cards. I decided to walk over there so that I could start to get to know mom's at Monta Loma. It was actually pretty fun - and very informative. I made some cute cards (you'll probably receive one for an upcoming celebration), but learned a lot about the neighborhood and school.

Reading: words and numbers!

2008-09-23T20:40:00.000-07:00

Harrison has learned to "read" his numbers and is very proud that he knows H-O-T spells hot. Whenever we drive by a building with an address that he can see, Harrison points it out to me. His daycare's number is 5 2 5...he "reads" that to me every day. :-)
Ava is reading very well these days. She brings a leveled book home each night and is excited to read it to us. There is a little girl in Ava's class who read's "chapter books" - Ava comes home nightly talking about this issue - she wants to read chapter books, too!
Wendy and August came over for dinner and visit tonight. August is very much a two year old these days! He is very cute, but giving Wendy a run for her money, as she gets closer to having the new baby. She is quite a bit bigger than with August, and still almost 3 months from the due date - I don't see this baby waiting to make his initial appearance until his due date. I predict he'll be here quite earlier than expected. Wendy looks great, though. Mostly all belly - if I could've fit into my non maternity pants at 6 months pregnant - I don't know what I would have done - it's amazing to see!

Fall

2008-09-14T15:28:00.000-07:00

Although the days are getting considerably shorter, Ava and Harrison have taken to sleeping less and less. They spent the night with Aunt Wendy last night while my coworkers came over. After a promise that they would nap today, she let them stay up watching movies until 10:00. They still woke up by 7:30 this morning.
Well - Mike and I napped today, but the kids didn't. I kept waking up to them singing silly songs, and arguing over legos and/or art work they were creating. They are now outside using the creating art on the sidewalk with chalk.
Moral of the story: never trust a kid who tells you they will nap "later"!

Happy birthday Ava!

2008-09-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

Ava turns 6 today! We celebrated with a girls day yesterday - ceramics painting followed by a tea party at our house. It was nice and low key. My cousin Kathryn came over with her daughter, Dakota, and husband Emil. The Spies also celebrated with us. It was perfect.
Today - our family went to Chuck E Cheese. We didn't do the big friend celebration this year - but she had a great time - and I think she feels very loved/celebrated.

Our first grader...

2008-08-26T19:23:00.000-07:00

Ava started first grade today! crazy...
She loved most of it - but is having a hard time with a student in her class that has autism. It was hard for me to talk to her about it - I felt very let down that the fact that this little boy was different/loud bothered her so much (he wears head phones to block out noise, and has a rubber thing he plays with and chews on to help with sensory issues). I explained that we are lucky to have been born without any real health or learning problems, but that we have to appreciate all people. She didn't like that - I then told her it was okay to come to me with questions about him, but that she can't complain about him, or be mean to him. We'll see what she comes home with tomorrow.
Mike says I have to deal with this one - it's interesting to be an advocate for kids with IEPs, but have a daughter who doesn't like to deal with it...what a world...
(BTW: I am totally glad he is in the classroom with her!)

Circus Circus yard yard

2008-08-24T21:01:00.000-07:00

We spent our Saturday morning going on a family walk to Starbucks then play time in the park, followed by working in the yard. The afternoon was much better...Circus in San Jose with the Spies and Houghtons! Although it wasn't as memorable as the first two visits, it was great to see Calder and August super excited.
Ava spent the day with her friends at Build A Bear workshop celebrating Haley's birthday. She had a blast, but came home a bit tired. We spent the day with Harrison, shopping for Ava's upcoming birthday and finishing up the landscaping project. Fun times...

What a long, strange month it's been...

2008-08-17T19:26:00.001-07:00

Alaska - 2 weeks filled with more animals than I could name (though I will try below), lots of really amazing views that I just can't explain (but will also attempt), and tons of time with family. Animals we saw in the wild: bear and cubs, red fox, golden eagles, bald eagles, caribou, whales, wolf (with pups), hares, sled dogs, and salmon. Amazing views - glaciers, untouched forests, waterfalls as tall as buildings in downtown SF.
Washington DC - The day after returning from Alaska I spent 4 days training teachers on the integrated services model that our district uses. I spent an evening walking around the monuments and taking in the city. We (A colleague and I) stayed in a very cute hotel called Tabard Inn. No TVs or elevator, so i had no excuse for hanging out in my room. We worked in an area, though, that cab drivers wouldn't take us. Because people drive SO CRAZY there, neither of us wanted to rent a car, so we ended up hiring a town car to take us to the school each day. I left DC feeling a little low about where our country stands as a class based economy. I saw a lot of very wealthy people, and people poorer than any of us could imagine... but not many in the middle.
Seascape - I returned from DC to leave three days later for an administrative retreat with my school district. It was a nice time to get to know my new team - I see a lot of positive changes happening - Can't wait to look back in June on this school year and see how far we have come.

The last week and a half -
Went to Wendy's ultrasound - IT"S ANOTHER BOY!!!
Went to Calder Houghton's 2nd birthday party yesterday at a park in SF. Very chilly - but very good to see all the kids playing together.
Went to Great America today. The four of us rode many rides - Ava's an adrenaline junky - and had fun in the pools. It's very cool that Ava and Harrison are getting so big. We went today with only a single backpack with swimsuits - ahhh!!

*pictures are of Mount McKinley (Denali) and a train we rode from Anchorage to Seward, Alaska

Off to Alaska

2008-07-13T19:52:00.001-07:00

We are heading to Alaska tomorrow to spend two weeks of vacation with Mike's family. My parents have been here since last Wednesday - it's been nice to have them here.
Will post when I get back...

Recital year 3

2008-07-06T16:42:00.001-07:00

I forgot to post about Ava's ballet recital on Father's Day. It was a very cute performance. Here's a grainy video clip of the dance (that she practiced for weeks) - Ava is the third from the left of the screen.

4th Of July

2008-07-05T16:23:00.001-07:00

We went to the 4th of July celebration in San Jose yesterday with the Spies, and Houghtons (minus Laura). They advertised online and in the paper that the light rail was the best way to get to the festival. Driving would have taken us about 30 minutes, but it took us about an hour to get there, which was okay since we didn't have to park (and we had 4 kids with us who have all seen the light rail system and wanted to ride it). We got to the festival, ate some high calorie (yummy) food, and drank a beer while we played in the kiddie area and listened to some live music. After about an hour and a half, we decided to head back to Mountain View to watch the fireworks that were being launched from Shoreline Amphitheater. We got to the train platform in San Jose at 7:30 to wait for the train, which according to the schedule was running every 15 minutes. Well, they lied. We made it to Mountain View more than 2 hours later - a little after 9:45. We saw some fireworks from the train and the car - but missed a bit of it. The kids were still excited to see what we did, though. We were all so tired, we went home a bit disappointed. I filed a complaint online with VTA, but whatever.

We are REALLY looking forward to tonight! All 4 of us (Mike, Ava, Harrison, and I) are going to see Stevie Wonder at Shoreline Amphitheater - about 2 miles from our house. A bunch of our friends are going, but none are bringing their children. Hopefully - the kids will be able to last - Mike is packing a picnic now and we are bringing blankets - we got lawn seats. We'll see how we all survive with keeping the kids up until 10:00 two nights in a row!!! :-)

June Flowers

2008-06-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

Today we went to Mike's company's picnic at a park in Menlo Park, CA (just north of Palo Alto). It was good to meet the people he works with. The kids had a blast. The company hired 3 nannies and 2 clowns to entertain the kids while the adults hung out. The kids had a much better time than we did! The picture is of Ava's facepaint from the picnic. Harrison's was much more elaborate (a magical green/yellow/white leopard with fangs), but we didn't get a picture of that before bath time.
A lot of flowers are blooming in our new yard. We saw 2 different hummingbirds today as we were picking berries, tomatoes, and plums this afternoon. I decided to take pictures of some of my favorite flowers - by no means all of them - but I thought others might enjoy them online as much as I enjoy them at home. It feels so good to have a house -it's a very small place, but it's ours! :-)

Things and stuff

2008-06-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been busy to say the least.

Ava finished kindergarten. We got her "report card" in the mail and she met or exceeded all kindergarten standards. Whew! I can't believe she'll be in first grade!

My "not so nice boss" resigned effective the 13th - so we have been full speed at work trying to catch up on all the things we weren't allowed to do while she was there. I was there until 7:45 tonight - went in at 7:30 this morning and it's been like that quite a bit.

We have officially moved - spent the first night at the house in Mountain View on Thursday.

Oscar got his first haircut today - and he looks like a "sissy" to put it nicely. He's all froofy - poodle like. He also spent the day at doggie camp - so he's exhausted.

I just found out that my district will pay $5K per year toward my doctorate. I looked up the top grad programs in education. Stanford is now #1. The good thing is (if I got in) it's only about 3 miles away. The bad part is that tuition has gone up to $34,000 per year (not counting room and board). Looks like I may have to settle for a little lower on the list! In about 10 years we'll have to pay for Ava (and soon after - Harrison) to go to college. :-)

One more thing... I read that the "Lost tribe" was all a HOAX! Darn. I actually used it to teach Ava and Harrison all about South America/rain forests/indigenous people. Oh well - I guess this tribe IS really there - just not so "lost".

Visit from Uncle Chris

2008-06-10T17:12:00.000-07:00

Mike's brother, Chris, was in town this weekend. We spent Saturday doing the tourist thing - went to a great restaurant called La Note in Berkeley and then went on to San Francisco for the rest of the morning/early afternoon. We rode the cable car, visited China Town, and ate lunch at the Ferry Station. Chris took a lot of pictures of the buildings, and a few of the kids. ;-) Wendy was nice enough to babysit so that we could all go out to Straits Cafe for dinner. Yummy!

Sunday was spent working at the new house. Chris and Mike drew up plans for new bookshelves to fit around the fireplace, and made a box to keep the creatures out of the underside of our house.

Monday we watched Ava's class put on an opera entitled, The Three Nanny Goats Gruff. Ava was Ms. Rabbit. After, Chris, Mike and I went hiking at Big Basin. We saw GINORMOUS sequoia trees, and made a four mile hike before driving back to pick up the kids. If we weren't tired enough, Chris took the kids to see KungFu Panda, while Mike and I saw Sex in the City.

Chris left this morning - but we'll get to see him in about a month when we all embark on a 2 week journey through Alaska.

So Wen - is there anything you want to share?

2008-05-23T18:06:00.001-07:00

Waiting for an exciting post on Wendy's blog - keep checking back for details! :-)

Happy Birthday Mike!

2008-05-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

Mike is now 3 and a half decades old! Woo hoo! To celebrate, both children had to visit the doctor for the first time since Ava's physical in August. Neither has been sick since we moved here last summer. They were waiting for just the right day - Dad's birthday! Harrison has an ear infection and Ava failed a TB test - so we had chest xrays to contend with. Mike didn't complain a bit about taking them to the doctor at noon after meeting the guys with our new sod at the house in Mountain View (and laying it). Poor guy was very busy - but we celebrated with fat burgers and milkshakes at "The Counter" with the Spies. They followed us home to have yummy birthday cake and ice cream. Yum yum! Happy birthday Mike!

Silk worm camp

2008-05-19T17:19:00.000-07:00

Ava is babysitting her class' silkworms tonight while they wait for them to turn into cacoons. After driving all around Palo Alto, we managed to find some mulberry leaves that they could eat - we grabbed about 30 of them, but they've already eaten most. Do I let them go without fresh leaves until tomorrow, or do we head back out to find more?
*these are the second round of silkworms - the first set was killed by another student's dog when he was babysitting them. Let's hope these make it through the night at the Miller house!!

Trip to San Diego

2008-05-18T21:27:00.000-07:00

We headed down to San Diego last weekend(May 9th-12th). I really think my kids' favorite part is the airport - every time we go on trips. We park in a "park and ride" type lot. Then we ride a bus/van to the airport, which can involve a train ride to the terminal. Both Ava and Harrison love it. We flew on Virgin America for the first time- and had a really fun time! It is totally geared toward us - funky lighting, seats with outlets, video/television/games/and even chat at each seat. The kids watched television most of the flight (Ava saw her first Hannah Montana while sitting next to her dad - argh)and all was great.
While at the beach house in San Diego - we had a great time! It was amazing - and literally right on the beach. Mike's friend, Jim, came over and gave both August and Harrison surf lessons. I have about an hour of video - if you are ever interested...We went to LegoLand on Mother's day - my kids were both just tall enough to ride EVERY ride - it was PERFECT! We even got to ride 2 roller coasters together (all four of us in a car) for the first time. They were so terrified during the ride, but when it stopped, they wanted to go again. Anyway - see the pictures on my picasa album, we had a blast. Family vacations are really starting to be fun for all of us. :-)

Are SLUGS pets?

2008-05-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

Ava was at Haley's this afternoon for their weekly playdate. I went to her house at 4:30 to pick Ava up - there were 5 little girls playing with snails. SO FUNNY. We had to take Ava's home - named "her" Blair.
She now lives in Ava's bug container. Hopefully, Blair will go to live with the other snails (outside) tonight.
Last night and tonight, we went to the new house (yep -it if officially ours) to work in the overgrown backyard. There are some amazing trees and other plants back there - so we are working on what to keep and what should go. We need grass - but the entire backyard is a garden right now. Some plants will have to be taken out. Mike and I have transplanted several great plants so far. I also planted a squash and tomato. The gardener, who has been working in this yard weekly for many years, is meeting me at the house tomorrow to discuss what he knows, and what he can do for us in the future. Will keep you posted.

Walk at Crissy Field

2008-05-03T14:25:00.000-07:00

We went up to the city early this morning for the Cystic Fibrosis Walk at Crissy Field. A bunch of people we know joined, so we had a great time. Crissy Field is this amazing place (national park) that, back in the 1920s was used as a airport. It has spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and downtown from anywhere you stand. After the walk, Jeri and Kevin set up a table with yummy munchies and we all hung out while the kids and dogs played on the beach. It was a warm morning, so we lasted for a couple of hours before heading back home for naps.
More pictures

Birthdays and BBQs

2008-04-26T19:43:00.000-07:00

Sweet little Oscar decided that while we were eating the fish that was grilled tonight, he would help himself to the dripping pan under the grill. These are the greasy results.

Also - last weekend Harrison, Ava, and August decided to tuck Oscar in bed in the middle of the living room - Oscar is a very patient puppy dog. I guess that's why we are so patient with him!

Tomorrow we celebrate August's 2nd birthday - with about 20 friends and family. I had the most amazing opportunity to be in the room when he was born two years ago - he is an amazing kid. Happy birthday! Hope your third year is as fun as your first two!

Our New House

2008-04-17T07:51:00.001-07:00

Here are some pics of the house in Mountain View that we put an offer on yesterday. Our offer was accepted (3 offers made: we got it)! We should close on May 6th and begin the moving process...again.

Spaced Out

2008-04-15T21:46:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday we took the kids over to NASA (Moffett field) to celebrate Yuri's Night. It was a cool mixture of (as our neighbor Jeff - who works at NASA - says) "Space stuff and Berkeley Hippie Freaks." Mind you he got his Ph.D. at Berkeley...

Anyway - it was quite cool to introduce the kids to all sorts of art, science, and technology including: robotics, aerodynamics, computer animation, space exploration, biology, and I can't forget their favorites - Legos and hot pink Mohawks.

We left with several goodies - including glow sticks, glow necklaces, a picture of astronauts (including several women astronauts), and a slinky.

life with doggie

2008-04-11T17:29:00.001-07:00

This is what Oscar and Harrison did this morning...

This is what Oscar did while we were at work/school today.

The last 24

2008-04-02T20:17:00.000-07:00

We had dinner at the Spies house last night. Terence is in New York, but his parents are in town visiting. It is SO FUNNY how August is with his Grandpa. In August's eyes, Grandpa Ron could do NO WRONG! It is very cute to see how much little guys want to be like the older men in their lives.
Early this morning (3:45am) Mike left to catch a shuttle to go snowboarding for the day in Tahoe. He should be back around 9:15 tonight. Basically, he slept on the way up, got in a full day of snowboarding, then drove an hour to dinner. After dinner, the bus is scheduled to show 2 movies before they all arrive back in Sunnyvale. Mike should be here around 9:30. I talked to him around 6 pm (HAD to make sure he hadn't crashed into a tree while performing some stunt on his board), and he had a blast today. Though it is difficult around here when he isn't around, I am glad Mike went today...and glad that he took the week off before starting his new job. He doesn't take much time off for himself since we have moved out here. I'm honestly not sure how he stays sane sometimes.

Spring Hikes

2008-03-31T17:49:00.000-07:00

Harrison is now 4 years old - crazy how fast time flies. :-) We had a quiet celebration at home with the Spies, us, and Awmaw. He got lots of pirate loot, but most of all...loves that he is no longer 3.
Mike is taking this week off between jobs. I happened to have today off work, so today we went for a hike out on Monta Bello Open Space Preserve. It was beautiful. I haven't been hiking with Mike without hearing "I'm tired" or "I'm hot" or "He's looking at me!" in several years - it was kinda weird without the kids making noises as we walked.
Though we didn't see many animals while we were there, we saw a pair of pheasants and a deer on the drive to the hike. :-)

Proud Mama

2008-03-19T18:56:00.001-07:00

Ava had a great day - she was given an award for "kindness" this morning at her school. She was called up to stand in front of her entire school with other students who were awarded. Harrison and Mike were there to take pictures and cheer her on.
After school she went to a "Hello Kitty" party with some kids in her class. She got to have an easter egg hunt - makeup, stickers, and chocolate were in the eggs. She also received a Hello Kitty purse. It is SUPER sparkly and has a checkbook inside. Look out world - my 5 year old now knows about credit cards and checks!!! :-)
After the party today (3:00) I picked Ava up and brought her back to work with me (she kept herself busy b/c one of her favorite games is "Office Worker"). She walked into my office with her purse on her arm while talking to my dad on my cell phone. Needless to say, we got a few glances from people in the transportation department who we passed on the way through the parking lot. I completely didn't notice how it looked until my boss said something about the phone/how much she looks and acts like her mom. Funny.

Another trip around the sun

2008-03-16T13:54:00.000-07:00

My family has been very cute this week. Harrison, Ava, and Mike have been working hard to plan goodies for me for my birthday. They are cooking dinner for me tonight, and some sort of birthday dessert involving 2 types of ben and jerry's ice cream and chocolate cake mix.
Thursday night, while we were sitting at the dinner table, Mike asked me what my favorite kind of cake was. Harrison was MORTIFIED that Mike was letting on that this would be my birthday cake. He "whispered" into Mike's ear that this was supposed to be a secret. You can imagine Harrison's reaction when later that night Mike asked me what kind of birthday dinner I would like. It was VERY cute.
Last night Wendy and August babysat (see her blog for those details), while Mike and I went up to San Francisco to eat sushi with friends. Then we went to see Dave Chappell at 11:00 at Cobb's Comedy Club. We got home around 3 am - and of course had kids up by 7:00. Wendy spent the night, so she was AMAZING enough to keep the kids busy till 7:45 when I got out of bed. We took all three kids and the doggie to the park while Mike continued to sleep until 9:30. He seemed to appreciate that.
Mike's cooking away now, and I can't wait for a YUMMY grilled shrimp dinner with our family and the Spies.

Science Fair/Hairbrushes

2008-03-11T21:12:00.000-07:00

We have had a busy, but fun first couple of weeks of March. We are REALLY looking forward to my mom coming to visit for Easter/Harrison/Wendy's birthdays. It should be a great time.

Truly Miller Style

2008-03-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

We always joke about how everything happens at once. In true Miller style, we are at it again.
I am getting settled in my new job just in time for Mike to leave Google and go to a start up. He (and Harrison) leave Google at the end of the month.
Our car was broken in to last Thursday night. Mike's work computer and bag full of "stuff" were inside. Lots stolen - argh. It was a little harder to explain to Ava this time - a real social lesson for her.
Oscar is getting very big. Mike is taking him to the vet today - poor little guy's gonna get a shot.
We have decided to hold off on the house shopping - especially with all the newspapers reporting that we are actually in a recession now. If the right thing pops up, though, we'll go after it.

Catch Up...

2008-02-24T19:21:00.000-08:00

Though it has only been a couple of days, I feel I must give details about all the craziness that went about in the Miller house this week.
1. Breckenridge, Colorado - first of all...we are very "BLEST" to have a place so amazing to go in Colorado. I feel so lucky every time we have the opportunity to visit Mike's parents' house there. We get to go several times per year, so although I feel comfortable there, I am awestruck by the architecture, decor, and amazing natural beauty of the property itself. I was raised outside, but this place offers "an outside" like I never experienced as a child. I am so grateful I have the opportunity to give this to our children (whether they appreciate the mountains or not!)

2. New Job - Special Education Coordinator in Ravenswood School District - we got home Tuesday night at 9 pm - raining HARD - way past bedtime. I started work Wednesday - Ava started daycare. I still have the opportunity to take her to school in the morning - starting the day off as we have all year - but I pick her up at daycare around 515. I have a lot to do at my new job.This is my first job out of the classroom - it's weird not to have a classroom - only a small area to keep all my teacher "stuff". argh. Time to clean out the garage and give all the "stuff" away?

3. New puppy - Oscar Miller birthday 12/9/2007 - Can't believe we got a dog this week... We have been looking for a puppy over the last month. The last 6 have been filled with discussions of whether to have a human baby or not. About 2 months ago we thought I might be pregnant - I PANICKED...that was when we decided babies should not be in our picture right now - if ever - I was so scared of another broken tail bone/50 pounds/veins as well as other issues - when a family posted a need for someone to take Oscar (due to their own allergies), it was as if it was meant to be - NO ONE posts about pets - I hadn't checked in DAYS, and I got the posting within 10 minutes of her need. It was totally meant to be.
Oscar is SO amazing. He sits, LOVES his crate, pees outside (for the most part), and LOVES Ava and Harrison. We are going to get a bell this week to attach to the door - teach him to ring it to go outside - the times he has peed inside is b/c we aren't smart enough to read when he needs to go out.
4. Weekend adventures with a puppy, two children, and rainy weather...
Went to Wen, T, and August's house Friday and Saturday for dinner. Friday - Indian Takeout - YUM Saturday - T decided to quench his "hankering" for shrimp poboys - he had them when visiting his brother and sister in law (Dan/Dawn) in Gulfport, MS - between his mad cookin skills and the McKibben mad breading skills (lots of fish fries at the McKibben house growing up) - the poboys were amazing. Not only did Mike and I eat till it hurt - we still hurt a little this morning! heehee
Between the rain showers and Sunday School - we all went to the park around the corner today - Harrison rode his bike with no training wheels - Ava had training wheels - and Oscar pulled his leash like a typical 9 week old pup. It was comical, but we all napped (not Mike) when we got back.
Tomorrow starts a new work week - craziness will ensue - Mike goes to NYC Wed-Fri - argh.

Introducing a new Miller

2008-02-22T07:29:00.001-08:00

No official name yet, but here's our newest addition. He is a 9 week-old GoldenDoodle (half English Cream Golden Retriever and half Standard Poodle). He is already crate trained, pees and poops outside; and knows how to sit, shake, and lay down! Very sweet, and VERY cool! :-)

Colorado

2008-02-18T15:12:00.000-08:00

We're in Breckenridge, CO visiting Mike's parents. After two days of ski school, Harrison skied a little with Mom, Dad, and Grandpa at the end of the day today.
After one day, Ava was (once again) a ski school drop out, so she and Grandma hung out and played at home today.
I have great pictures and video - will try to upload when we get home.

Once again...

2008-02-14T22:35:00.000-08:00

Education is such an uphill battle without an asshole desperate for attention coming in and taking everything away. Everytime I read about a school shooter; whether it is the more "successful" one like today in Illinois, or "only one death" like in Oxnard yesterday, I feel very deep pain - another amibitious soul has been yanked from us. Educational environments (schools, libraries, etc.) should have a safety zone around them. NEVER should a student feel afraid while in school. As a society of teachers, doctors, journalists, lawyers, and engineers, etc... and in a country that guarantees the right to education, how can we MAKE THIS STOP?

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T17:31:00.000-08:00

I hope you have had a happy day filled with friendship and love. :-)

Off to Colorado in the morning to see Grandma and Grandpa Miller, as well as Uncle Chris.

What's the biggest number? and other tough questions...

2008-02-12T20:24:00.002-08:00

Ava's academic abilities have grown SO MUCH over the past two weeks. She has begun to show an interest in reading, math, and science. There is a school-wide science fair coming up, so she told me today that she wants to try out LOTS of science experiements before she decides which one to show her friends. Good thing we are going to see grandparents in Colorado this weekend, maybe we can push some of the "experiments" off on to them!! (hint hint Grandma and Grandpa!)
Anyway - after playing "Whack a Mole" (see picture) and going to Blockbuster to rent moview tonight, we put the kids in bed. Ava decided she wanted to stay up until the minute hand pointed to the one. We ok'd it and she went to bed (by the time the minute hand was pointing to the three). When I tucked her in, we had a long discussion about numbers. "Mommy, what is the biggest number in the whole wowld?" Ava asked. She thought it would take "like a thousand days" to count to it. I then told her that we could even add one to that number. On that note, she gave up and said goodnight. I have a feeling she's going to start asking questions I can't answer VERY soon :-)

BTW: I signed my contract with Ravenswood today. SO excited!! Also, my coworkers at Palo Verde had a going away lunch for me this afternoon. I got flowers (1 pot and 1 arrangement) and a VERY nice card. They are SO warm and supportive - it makes it really hard to leave (even though it is a TA job and I am going to an administrative job - it's tough to go.)

Bike riding kid!!

2008-02-10T19:25:00.001-08:00

Yep - our little guy, Harrison (he'll be 4 on 3/25), learned to ride a bicycle with no training wheels today! He rode back and forth, and back and forth, (and back and forth) on the sidewalk in front of our house this afternoon. Our cameras were nowhere to be found, but I will try to post a picture later this week.
Because of Harrison's new trick, Ava was a little more interested in attempting to ride her bike. But it was "too hawwd". So after about 5 minutes, she decided to cheer Harrison on instead.

Sunny days are here again!

2008-02-10T09:47:00.001-08:00

Now this is the weather I was told about! The sky is SO blue, and it's a warm 65 degrees in the afternoon. After house hunting in the morning yesterday, we met Laura, Calder, and the Spies at SF Museum of Modern Art to see a cool light/water exhibit and play across the street on the Yerba Buena gardens. The kids were so tired, they didn't last too long. It was a good time though, because the weather was SO amazing. Warmer yesterday than at Calder's birthday party in August.
Once we got home, the kids went for a bike ride with Mike and then decided they wanted to camp out in a tent in our bedroom (see pictures of setting tent up before bed). Harrison lasted all night, but Ava went to her bed by 10:30.
At home today for a more restful time. We may go for a bike ride/run in a bit/ Other than that, no plans. It's nice to just hang out sometimes.

Biting the Bullet

2008-02-06T17:02:00.000-08:00

After a 10 pound weight gain since moving here 6 months ago, I decided to try to get it under control. I went to my first Weight Watchers meeting today at lunch. Convenient and interesting, but I am hungry! :-) I hope this works!

Job decision and daycare centers

2008-02-05T11:38:00.000-08:00

After lots of deliberation, I decided to take the position as Special Education Coordinator in Ravenswood School District (East Palo Alto). It is considered by most to be a "rough" district, which makes me excited. There has been a lot of moving and shaking over there for the past couple of years. The focus is now on relationships and responsibilty which in turn creates results. The philosophies align with mine perfectly.

Ava and I toured a daycare center yesterday. She would ride the bus there after school for the rest of the year. She has a couple of classmates who go there now, so she is excited.

Mike is out of town this week. Tough to get everyone where they need to be when he is gone, but luckily Wen and T are here to help me out. Wendy moved a meeting (with her boss) today to pick Ava up from school and take her to clay class. Ava is SUPER excited to have Wendy do pick up. :-)

Picassa pictures

2008-02-02T10:47:00.000-08:00

New pictures are uploaded in my album. :-)

What are the Millers doing today?

2008-02-02T10:37:00.001-08:00

Mike woke up this morning and had a jolt of testosterone run through his body. After breakfast he found the nearest cable retailer and bought a hi definition cable card for our flat screen tv. We are only having a couple of people over tomorrow for "the big football game", but he decided he had to have this. After he got home with the card, we attempted to install it. I was just frustrated enough, I went for a jog while he called the cable company. Here is a picture of Mike an hour later, still on the phone. :-)

Reminder: What is a GREAT day?

2008-01-29T12:07:00.000-08:00

This is a good day (in my life):
I interviewed this morning for a Special Education coordinator position in East Palo Alto. It went really well! I learned a lot about the district - it's a tough place, but they are working hard to turn the education system around. Also, it seems much more collaborative than anywhere I have been - something I value strongly. I should know something by the end of the week. I let the interview team know I had another offer and must decide by next week. :-D

Worked this afternoon at Palo Verde - went well. Nothing big.

Picked Ava up - she had a fabulous day at school. While I was interviewing this morning, Mike filled in my volunteer duties in Ava's class. Mrs. Witt also told me what a great job he did. It was nice to be able to pass it off to Mike today - I didn't have to leave Mrs. Witt in a bind.

Took Ava to her first clay class at the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo. She loved it. She will be going every Tuesday for 8 weeks. While Ava was making name plates and caterpillars in class, I saw a rainbow that shot ALL THE WAY across the sky (for the 3rd time this week). After picking her up, we walked around the (very) small zoo and looked at animals. Now we are at home dropping off groceries before we head out to get Harrison. I only hope he has had as good a day as Ava and I.

Dogs, Friends, and The State of the Union

2008-01-27T20:28:00.000-08:00

We went to the dog show today up in the city (San Francisco is about 30 minutes North of our house). Although I TOTALLY am about animal shelter dogs, I saw one particular breed that I completely fell head over heels for: Portuguese Water dogs. They don't shed, and are much like Labs, Poodles, and Labradoodles, but they are more loyal, hardworking, and seemingly more expensive (1800-2000 a dog - WOW!). The kids were all apprehensive about petting the dogs at first (Ava, Harrison, August, and Calder), though it seems they warmed up and were petting everything except the rottweilers by the end of the journey.

I tend to spend a lot of time listing out events going on in my own family, instead of talking about how amazing my friends are. I just wanted to take a minute for a friend update. Again, if you have had something great happen that I am not writing about now, it's probably b/c I don't know about it!! Keep me POSTED!!

My friend Laura, Andrew's wife, Calder's mom, and over all Great Gal landed a job as (I believe) MotherJones.com online editor. She is an AMAZING writer. Maybe it's because we have similar views, but I like what she has to say.

My friend Sara has started an online business called TwoBluePeas. It specializes in baby clothing and accessories. Cute stuff and well designed website.

Also, my friend Howard's wife, Nancy, has started an online stationary/kid company called BaileyBeaDesignes. Cool Stuff/Good Service.

In family news, my sister's life-long friend and my surrogate older sister, Carrie Hauser Rainey, had a little girl on Thursday. They named her Landry. I can't wait to meet her - Carrie and her husband, Blake, are very courageous - 2 babies in 10 1/2 MONTHS! :-)

Very Funny

2008-01-27T19:48:00.000-08:00

Wendy sent me this link. It is so funny, I have to post it. In honor of all my friends who are new or soon to be parents: Do's and Don't of Parenthood.

Rain, girls, blood tests, oh my!

2008-01-25T16:52:00.000-08:00

Yep - it's raining. Has been for a couple of days and is supposed to continue for the next 5 or so. It is totally like someone left the shower on - no thunder, just (fairly heavy) rain.

It was our week to host Friday playdate with Ava and her 3 friends. It amazes me how well they play together. Each time they come over I watch and wonder how Disney has brainwashed nearly every little girl in our country to think that they, too, can become a princess.
I have to admit, as they played, I saw my bossiness coming out in Ava. Future teacher?

After once again going to sleep at 7:15 (and not getting up until my alarm went off at 7:00 this morning), I got the results of the blood tests today. I went in to have a further test done to confirm that I have Sprue, which is a Celiac Disease. Basically it seems that I have become allergic to glutin (wheat, barley, and rye). Although this answers a lot of the health related issues I have complained about for years (and thought sometimes I was just a complainer), it means I'm going to be that annoying person at restaurants now asking if they can make some dish "special" for me. I should get more info next week. I hope they set me up with a nutritionist. I checked it out online today - it is CRAZY what has glutin (soy sauce, ketchup, licorice...). There is a center for Celiac Disease at Stanford - that would be a great resource.

AT LEAST I'M NOT PREGNANT - can you imagine me with 3 kids!!! YIKES. :-D

fun weekend

2008-01-22T16:21:00.000-08:00

We went to Napa/Sonoma/Russian River Valley with the Spies this weekend. We all had a good relaxing time. The kids (and adults) just loved Train Town and the wineries were spectacular. The best part, though, was that Wendy and I stayed Monday (MLK holiday) after the boys and kids went home. We spent the afternoon at a fancy spa, and then 3 hours of a fabulous yoga retreat with amazing teachers: David Life and Sharon Gannon. I have to admit, I am a bit sore today.

In work related news... got a call from Ravenswood school district (East Palo Alto) today - they want me to interview for a special education coordinator position next week. Now I get to try to put off Cupertino's offer until I hear back from Ravenswood and Palo Alto - kinda fun to have choices.

In health related news... I have gained about 10 pounds in the last 6 weeks - don't know why exactly. I have also got some weirdness going on in my belly. NO I"M NOT PREGNANT. I went to the doctor this afternoon and she ran a whole bunch of blood tests - we'll see soon what's going on in there - I hope.

Work till you drop

2008-01-18T17:32:00.000-08:00

Harrison was drawing today at school during rest time and just couldn't draw any more...

offer

2008-01-17T12:49:00.000-08:00

Details are sketchy - but Cupertino people called me today to tell me they want me to work for them! I'll find out more next Tuesday or Wednesday (they have to find a position for this school year, and then move me into something more "permanent" next year). The HR Supt. is in the Phillipines recruiting this week, so we have to wait until his return to finalize anything.

T's birthday car show / Interview

2008-01-14T17:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Terence's birthday celebration. The Houghtons, Millers, and Spies all hung out. After lunch and the birthday cake, the boys went to the car show (yes - the car show) in San Jose, while the girls went shopping. Not the most successful shopping excursion, but nice to spend time with Ava, Wendy, and Laura.
Today was the big day for my interview with Cupertino. It went really well! After the first interview, they asked me to stick around for round 2. It went very well, also. After checking references, they will contact me within a week. I was asked to call them if I am offered a position with another district before they talk to me. Hee hee...

Sun!!!

2008-01-12T19:18:00.000-08:00

Thank God the sun has come out! After Wendy's yoga class today, the Spies boys and the Millers went to Santa Cruz (about 45 mins away) to see the beach/boardwalk. We saw pelicans, sea lions, fishermen, surfers, and a real boardwalk. Ava spent her time collecting LOTS of seashells. Harrison spotted a helicopter ride on the boardwalk that he and Ava had to ride. It was about 60 degrees outside- perfectly clear - after a week and a half of non stop rain - it was beautiful.

Solar Systems and Security

2008-01-10T08:42:00.001-08:00

I uploaded a new album on Picassa this morning. Mike put up Harrison's Solar System mobile last night (with a little help from his buddy). They also started building a wooden castle Harrison's teacher gave him.
While the boys were doing this, Ava went in her room and played dress up. She loves her new jewelry Awmaw and PopPop gave her for Christmas. It is ALL over our house. :-)

While Harrison and Mike were working on the castle, Ava came to the kitchen carrying her step stool full of "stuff". This was so she could go through the security line. Heehee... I know my kids travel too much when they play "airport security" at home.

Ava and her art

2008-01-09T16:03:00.000-08:00

Ava loves to create all kinds of art work. Here is a picture of her with a "Gingerbread Cookie" hat on and the dinosaur she created at school. We have started taking pictures of the big pieces of art and throwing out what we can (when she isn't looking). There is not enough room for ALL the crazy pieces she has done. :-)

Jobs anyone?

2008-01-09T12:33:00.000-08:00

I have an interview with Cupertino School District Monday at 230. I am cautiously optimistic. Why is there a position available (eg what's wrong with the job?) and should I give up on getting hired in Palo Alto for this? I am happy in the district, so I am a little apprehensive about trying out another. I plan to ask lots of questions on Monday. We'll see...
Was also asked to apply for a Special Ed Coordinator position in Ravenswood (East Palo Alto). I did that Monday, but haven't heard anything yet. Fingers are crossed there. It is a very tough district, but lots of opportunities to make a difference.

So this must be the "rainy season"?!

2008-01-04T16:28:00.000-08:00

It's only rained for two days, but the creeks are all filled and there are a number of trees down. Wendy and Terence's house is without power - I know this b/c Ava and I tried to go to the Safeway near their house today and all the employees were standing outside. I imagine it can get pretty scary in a grocery store with no lights! We're great at our house, though.
I cracked up today, though, as Ava and I were driving home from seeing a very girlie movie, Enchanted. Palo Alto is a mess. The city works so hard to keep it looking "right", but there are limbs, leaves, and other debris all over the road. Not to mention the flooding. On the way to the movie I saw a bag of clothing fly out of the back of a truck (REALLY high winds), and break open all over the road. What a mess.
It's supposed to rain every day for the next 10, with a little break next Monday. It should be interesting. I wonder what our pretty little town is going to look like by mid January. I am sure rain or shine the city workers will be out cleaning in full force by tomorrow.

On another note...Mike took Harrison to Google this morning for a boys breakfast before heading off to school. They were both so excited. Harrison loves spending time with his dad; and since the rain has started I can't get the rain boots and rain jacket off of him. Mike is much more lenient about the water...Those puddles are no match for our little guy. Harrison's teacher bought some gutter material for the kids to make rivers and such at school. I guess since we don't really have lightening in our area, it's fine that he is outside even in the rain. He has a blast, and we know he isn't made of sugar so he won't melt! :-)

Here's a picture of the kids (Harrison, August, and Ava) riding on Wendy last month. Her back will never heal with these guys around!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T12:10:00.001-08:00

We spent last night celebrating the New Year with the McCandlesses who live across the street. Great time - magic tricks, jokes, games, stories, yummy food, and happy kids. We tucked the kids in Jeff and April's bed and stayed a bit longer for some Cranium and Trivia. We rolled back home around 1:45 (can you believe we lasted way past midnight?!) and the kids let us sleep until 9:15! Although they served themselves fruit roll ups and apple juice for breakfast, it was VERY nice to sleep in.

Christmas was a big hit for us. Santa visited the McKibben house and was very good to the kids this year (maybe too good). We had a blast. Mike got Guitar Hero III for the Wii and played it pretty much non stop. Ava and Harrison are so big - they spent most of the week playing independently (or with each other) with their toys, but let us have our space. Adults were involved in the bonfire (yummmm... s'mores), tractor driving, and other outdoor activities, though. :-)

There wasn't much fighting, and naps weren't a huge issue as they have been on previous trips.

Exciting presents we got from and gave to each other:

Ava: easy bake oven, sleeping bag, art "stuff", pony and princess toys

Harrison: bike, pirate toys, Diego dress up outfit, stomp rocket

Me: sweater, games for my nintendo ds

Mike: guitar hero, Garmin forerunner

It's Here!

2007-12-22T11:05:00.000-08:00

Leaving in 1/2 an hour to fly SFO to Dallas. Then driving from Dallas to Shreveport. Ava just hit Harrison on the head b/c she wants to sit next to me on the airplane. We haven't even left and the fun has begun!!! Woo hoo!!!

My daughter/singing cookie

2007-12-20T11:11:00.000-08:00

Ava's class put on their rendition of the Gingerbread Man today. Ava was cast as a "singing cookie" i.e. background/extra. This was a good place for her, though. Both Mike and I arrived to see her play with her dress, roll on the floor, and do a little of the singing. How do you encourage an attention seeker become more mature? She's cute, but SO needy.

Winter wetland

2007-12-18T11:35:00.000-08:00

God turned on the faucet up there and must have gotten really busy and forgotten about it. Today is the second of an expected 5 day steady rain. It is weird = no thunder or lightening, just cold, wet, and steady. I have had several cups of tea and coffee over the past 24 hours - if I read at all, I would probably be laying on the couch with a book in my hand, too. It's just that kind of weather. (But that's not going to happen!!)

Mike is in New York this week (3 days - not ALL week). He should be back late late Wednesday/early Thursday. He is so nice - takes the red eye flights so that he can spend more time at home. It is appreciated.

We decided it is perfectly okay to bribe the munchkins when Mike goes away. We tell them if they don't throw any fits while he is gone, they get surprises from the Toys R Us in Times Square. That is the toy store we went to and rode the ferris wheel. They are super excited, and it is keeping them distracted from the Christmas presents they have been begging to open.

Elfin' Funny

2007-12-16T13:29:00.000-08:00

Watch the Millers Dance - Happy Holidays!

Survived/Miller Bash - Relocated

2007-12-14T12:29:00.000-08:00

We survived two VERY tired kiddos last night...barely. They were asleep within seconds of getting out of the bath. Harrison didn't ask for a snack before bed - he was exhausted.

Tomorrow is our 10th annual Miller Holiday Bash - Relocated. Although it won't be the same as Austin, I hope it will be as fun. This is my favorite event of the year - it's so great so see friends on a really happy occasion when everyone has something to celebrate. The gift exchange is always a hoot. We bought some great gifts this year - mine is a themed basket...Mike's eggnog isn't so bad, either.

Tia Reina has agreed to watch the children (Ava, Harrison, August) from 6-10 tomorrow night. As a gift to all the parents at the daycare, she has invited ALL the kids to come to her house tomorrow evening - free of charge. She is such a thoughtful person. We are lucky to have met her.

Don't get too close - animals may bite - hard

2007-12-13T19:21:00.000-08:00

After a trying evening...our children are both in the bathtub about to either fall asleep or kill each other. I have heard, "no you don't, yes i do, no you don't, yes I do" and "get out, no, get out, no, get out, no" about 30 times - then they call "baby" and "Mommy" until either Mike or I gives in and goes to help one of them. We are thinking about having a third child- are we crazy? Will I be the next Mom on the news?
I am having flashbacks from my childhood - I was so bad and mean to my parents/siblings...

Decision: A couple of Pictures with Explaination

2007-12-11T12:05:00.000-08:00

Harrison and Ava dressed up in Christmas clothes to go see the Nutcracker last weekend (Mike and I dressed up too).

We all went on a San Francisco Bay ferry tour last weekend with the Spies and Callens. It was quite cool - the boat went UNDER the Golden Gate bridge, around Alcatraz, and had spectacular views. If you ask my children, their favorite part was eating Cheetos.

The kids decorated a Gingerbread house on Saturday.

Went swimming with August and our family Sunday (indoor pool). It was cold - but we all had a great time!

A fire truck came to visit Harrison's school yesterday - he got to spray a small fire hose!

Been a While...

2007-12-10T15:49:00.000-08:00

What does one do when it has been a while since the last posting? Post a long blog with many updates, or just tell one good story? Will decide today and hopefully have something up by tonight. :-)

Kids for sale: Cheap

2007-11-27T17:10:00.001-08:00

There are times, as a parent, that I never want my children to grow older. when they say something funny, give an extra hug, or whisper in my ear a "secret" that is usually something not secretive at all. There are other times, however, that I am ready to either give them away, or send them to boarding school (at ages 3.5 and 5). I love them, but because they know me so well, they know exactly how to drive me crazy.
This post stems from...Harrison threw his shoe at my head about 20 minutes ago - shortly after Ava hit him because she wanted to watch a different movie than he did. Argh...instead of ridding myself of them completely - they are now playing in their rooms with doors closed. I got a beer.

Holidays are here

2007-11-25T22:03:00.000-08:00

Had a very yummy Thanksgiving celebration at our house with friends and family. My cousin, Kathryn and her family joined us as did the Houghtons, Spies, and my parents. It was great.

We bought our 2007 Christmas tree today and brought it home to decorate. Ava and Harrison had a blast helping out with the ornaments. They did an excellent job hanging them (for the most part). Yes...Harrison's tongue sticks out whenever he concentrates.

Thanksgiving - thanks

2007-11-20T15:58:00.000-08:00

Ava's kindergarten class listed what they are thankful for. It turned out so heartwarming...to see a list of 20 different ideas of what is important from a 5 year old's perspective (complete with illustrations) is sweet. BTW: Ava was thankful she got to go to New York with her family.
As I read the list, I think about what I am thankful for. There is so much.
If interested, read further for my ideas of what is important.
I am thankful for/that:
Family
Spam blocker
Digital clocks
Friends
The weather in Silicon Valley
That I have time right now to watch my children grow
Internet
We live near a couple of big airports
My education
chocolate
My job
snooze buttons
yoga
gardens/trees/flowers
my house
My sister lives close
My minivan (yep!)
We are healthy
avocados
Vodka martinis
We are close to the beach
Tivo
Most of all I am thankful that...since our move I have become aware that I have the time and opportunity to enjoy life.

I hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving! gobble gobble.

Ava by any other name...

2007-11-16T13:40:00.000-08:00

I had a conversation with Laura a couple of weeks ago about raising children - the fear that they would have the same habits in school that we did. Do you really think that the names we give them can really impact their school ability? Interesting
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071116/lf_nm_life/initials_performance_dc

NY: a family experience

2007-11-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

Wednesday night: Mike flies up on the red eye
Thursday: Hill and the kids fly SFO to Newark
Friday: Mike goes to a conference while Hill and the kids go ride the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty - a 10-15 minute walk = an hour when you have two kids in the freezing rain! Walked to dinner then back to the hotel - across the street from 4 World Financial Center - a block from ground zero. Lots of construction going on - creepy hole in the middle of really tall buildings. It is obvious people here are past the grief, and ready to get on with it. Many buildings around the fallen ones are being reconstructed - more damage 6 years later than I expected to see. Enough damage for the children to notice. I explained the best I could - in 3 and 5 year old terms. H seems concerned, but not overly worried.
Saturday: we ride the subway over to Times Square (Toys R Us) - indoor ferris wheel, bryant park, NYC public library, Grand Central Station, Cab to the hotel - French restaurant Odean for dinner.
We are heading to the chocolate fair tomorrow and possibly the Empire state building. Lots of pictures when we get home on Tuesday. :-)

Yoga/Dinner with girls

2007-11-05T13:35:00.000-08:00

Went up to SF with Wendy last night to practice yoga at a new studio with Laura. It was definitely a new and different experience b/c the yoga teacher was VERY um... modern "hippie"/pot smoker, but still cool and had kind of a dance style. Anyway - good exercise and VERY nice to spend time with Wen and Laura. After yoga we went to a tea house for yummy food, and quite exotic teas. Hope we get to do this fairly often! :-)

Flu Shots

2007-11-05T13:31:00.000-08:00

On the way home from the beach, we stopped by the Palo Alto Medical Foundation for flu shots. We didn't tell Ava and Harrison until we got there. Ava immediately began to cry. She brought her dolly in and proceeded to tell me that she loved her Dolly so she didn't have to get a flu shot. Harrison was AMAZING! He told Ava he wanted to go first to show her that it didn't hurt. The nurse told us that Mike should go first, so he did. Harrison gladly went next and didn't even wince when he got the injection. Ava still didn't buy into it, but after two nurses and Mike held her down, she gave in and got one. Then she cried and held her arm like she had been shot with a gun or something all the way back to the car. So dramatic, and so funny!

2007-11-05T13:27:00.000-08:00

Went to Half Moon Bay on Sunday morning to eat brunch and visit the ocean. The kids had a blast!

Trick or Treat, Smell My Feet...

2007-11-01T20:34:00.001-07:00

Call that Harrison has a spot at Google's children's preschool - exciting
A date to Google's Adult Halloween Party with Mike where we dressed as Publisher's Clearing House prize patrol and housewife prize winner - fun
Trick or Treating with our family, Spies, and McCandlesses - totally enjoyable - kids had a blast
Parent tour of Google's Children's center - phenomenal
Ava moved to a more appropriate group of students in her class - wonderful and a relief
Realization that I am at a pretty good point in my life- yeah, you got it...priceless.

The last two days have been great. I am working a few hours a week - involved with other adults finally. The kids are getting more adjusted and much nicer to Mike and me. We are leaving for a family trip to NYC in one week, and family is coming to see us for Thanksgiving. There is a lot going on, but I love it. I live best when I am juggling multiple tasks - otherwise I get bored and fat. :-)
Uploaded pics of these events and more are on my Picassa.

Halloween and Earthquakes! Oh My!

2007-10-30T20:28:00.001-07:00

We had a blast today at Google's Family Halloween party. LOTS of candy, incredible artists painting faces, food, pumpkin decorating, and other "stuff". It wasn't totally over the top - a nice family atmosphere. The adult celebration is tomorrow - should be fun!

Well...I heard what sounded like a train or low flying LARGE plane going by and I asked Mike, "What's that noise?" He said he thought it was the heater, but when he walked over to check on why the heater was making such a loud and low noise, the house began to shake. SCARY! We had just tucked the kids into bed, so we hurried back to their rooms where they were laying WIDE-EYED in bed. We explained the best we could what an earthquake is and Harrison told us that he wanted to move back to Austin where the Earth doesn't shake. Very cute.
Apparently the earthquake was centered about 20 miles from Palo Alto in NE San Jose. It was a 5.6, big enough to startle people in San Francisco, more than 50 miles from the center. I hope there are no big aftershocks...
Our neighbors, Sally and Peter, called to check on us as they always do. It is nice to have people so close that keep an eye on us.

Halloween Weekend

2007-10-28T09:05:00.000-07:00

We went to a birthday party at Golden Gate Park yesterday. The kids are getting so big. Ava played on the playground the entire time while Harrison dragged adults (me, Mike, and "Uncle" Abs) through the forest to go explore. He is such a boy - loves the woods and gets as dirty as possible every time he steps foot outdoors.

Last night we went to the YMCA for their annual Halloween festival. There was a not so scary haunted house, a magician, arts, crafts, and games. The kids REALLY loved this. Wendy, Terence, and August joined us. My kids dressed as Batman and a Medieval Queen. Wendy and August both dressed as Elvis. August was SO proud of himself. He kept posing and acting like he was super cool. I got some good pictures. It was AWESOME. :-)

Lots of celebrations this week - I am sure I will have lots more to talk. It's crazy how much people celebrate out here.

When the kids are happy - everyone's happy

2007-10-25T18:23:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is... They say that children feed off their parents' moods and emotions, but I think it can also work the other way around, too. Ava woke up giggling this morning, something she hasn't done in a long time. She laughed our entire (1/2mile) walk to school and was equally as happy when I picked her up. Because of this (or not), I got SO much done today.
I went to the gym - and did the full work out! I vacuumed, did laundry, washed the minivan and the porsche, made poppy seed muffins, went to the YMCA with Ava to swim, and met a couple of students who I will be working with at Ava's school starting next week.
It was crazy productive, but happy and silly, too.
Harrison is now home with us and the happies have rubbed off. He started out grumpy (due to an earlier accident during nap time at Tia Reina's), but as soon as we got him home, he began smiling.
I hope this is the beginning of two happy/more mature children AND I hope they are still this good when Mike gets home tonight - he's at a late meeting.

Back

2007-10-23T10:53:00.000-07:00

My family picked me up from the airport last night. I opened the door to put my bags in and I hear LOUD giggling/near shreiking - the munchkins were very happy to see me. :-) I rode home in the back seat in between the kids. They held my hands the whole way and giggled and told funny stories. It is nice to be missed.
I work in Ava's class for a couple of hours every Tuesday. Ava crawled in my lap at one point this morning and gave me a big hug saying, "I missed you Mommy." It was very sweet.
All the business stuff is all set up for me to start at Ava's school. I should be working by the end of the week. Woo hoo! :-)
No bites on tutoring yet. Report cards come out this Friday (I think). I should get some bites then!

Birthdays

2007-10-20T14:55:00.001-07:00

I am in Austin this weekend; staying with the Pettys. They are going to Lisa's grandmother's 80th while I am going to Sara's 35th birthday party tonight. Lisa and her family are so wonderful. I am so lucky to have them in my life.
I have talked to my family in Palo Alto twice today - the kids are having a great time with their dad. I am also very lucky to have Mike. He's a great dad.
More later - including details about how I ended up with a minivan this weekend...I know tonight will be a blast - I'll be careful/well behaved. ;-)

Catch up on Kid Stuff

2007-10-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

Ava will have her 3rd play date in a row today. Wednesday she went over to Sophia's house, yesterday Ellie came to our house, and today is the weekly playdate with Ellie and Haley at Ellie's house. She got a haircut this week that makes her look SO big. It is a just above the shoulder bob. Very cute, and much easier to manage. She is starting to really read words, but doesn't want to. It's quite funny how she is against learning to read, but she is doing it anyway. I think she is scared to look "not so smart", so she doesn't want to try until she's good at it.
Harrison is doing really well at Tia Reina's house. He has been bringing home very cute artwork about Halloween. Puppets, jack-o-lantern shape book, and pumpkin windsock. He is very pleased that he can do a good job on art like Ava. It's really cute. He is getting SO big, too. Many people think he's in kindergarten b/c of his size, but nope - still have 2 years to go. He's going to be a BIG kindergartener!
I am heading to Austin today to go to my friend, Sara's 35th birthday party. It is going to be a whirlwind, not seeing all the friends I would like, but should be fun. I am staying with Lisa Petty's family - we'll try to be well behaved... :-)

Website is live

2007-10-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official - I am out there on the web as www.TouchStoneTutoring.com! Crazy - worried about logistics, but we'll see what happens. :-) Tell me what you think.

Touchstone

2007-10-15T14:46:00.000-07:00

Not much going on...
Mike is in NYC this week (Sunday lunch - Wednesday evening). The kids are trying to be well-behaved. I am preoccupied with trying to get everything going for my tutoring business. It may actually work - we'll see.
What do you think about "Touchstone Tutoring"? I am thinking about calling this part of the business that, but having an overarching name of "Touchstone Educational Services" - just in case I decide to branch out. There may be a comapny in Australia called Touchstone Ed. Services, but they appear to do something very different, and don't seem to have good website influence. Nothing called that (I haven't found one anyway) in the states.
I have an idea for a logo - just sent it over to Wendy today - hope she can gussy it up to make it all artsy and stuff. heehee :-)
After that - attempt to build a website...

Day off of School: Rainy day field trip

2007-10-12T17:17:00.000-07:00

Ava had the day off of school, so we decided to take a little field trip down to Monterey to visit our fish friends at the aquarium. It was only fair to have Harrison miss school, too, so the three of us (two kids and me) loaded up the minivan (yep - I am a minivan driver) and drove down. Harrison has decided recently that he is deathly afraid of the dark, so I held his hand while we went through the jellies and deep sea exhibits. It was a good trip - especially since it's a rainy day. We were home by 3:00. It is still raining outside - my house is a wreck, the kids are once again COVERED in markers and we are babysitting August tonight. I hope it is sunny tomorrow - either way we are sending the kids outside to play (and wash the markers off)! Should be fun!
More pics of today's trip

2007-10-11T15:09:00.000-07:00

I took Harrison to the doctor yesterday - not "sick", just concerned about the fact that he yells all the time - even when we remind him to use his "inside voice". Sure enough, it seems he has some hearing loss in his left ear. He failed the hearing test. Not ready to panic at all - it will be fine. He has an appointment for further, more in depth testing November 7th.

Today was the weekly play date with Ava, Ellie, and Haley. This week was our turn to host. The girls had a great time eating, playing dress up, coloring with sidewalk chalk, and having a tea party (see picture). It is amazing how more children can equal less work for parents. The girls entertain themselves. All I have to do is check up every few minutes and they are fine. :-) I used the time to set up guidelines for my new tutoring endeavors. I hope this plan works out.