Post Disclosure: Do NOT view if you don't want to see gross pictures of my foot

So Thursday morning wasn't a typical morning-I won't go into details-so I was walking down a few steps to the van carrying Hank, when I missed a step and fell.  Hank was fine.  I said 'trent I think I broke my foot!' he said 'you just need to walk on it'  I got to work and about 30 minutes later it looked like this-pay close attention to the ankle region.

 

So the school psych drove me to Duke Urgent Care clinic.  After X-rays I was told there was NOT a break, but a severe sprain :) SUPER I said

She gave me 2 choices.  A splint with crutches or a boot.  I went for the ....

It's a good look I've decided.  Gus' teacher said that it looks like it should make a robotic noise when I take a step.

Did I mention that I went back to work when I was told not to ?  I should have listened...

So Day 2 looked like this:

Again I went back to work because I had an observation

Day 3:

Today:

MUCH better today!  Never in nearly 32 years of being alive and playing all kinds of sports have I ever experienced anything like this.

Best Weekend Ever!

 (This pic was taken Saturday in the Tobacco Warehouse District.  Hank was working on ice cream from the Cuban restaurant)

So I took Friday off because mom and grandma drove down Thursday to see us!!!!  I haven't seen them in nearly 4 months!  I was more worried about them leaving than them actually visiting!  It was nice though.  We had gone to Surf City the weekend before and Gus loved it because there were jellyfish!  Trent was told that it's their season...so we went back there with mom and gma on Friday.  There are a few pics on Facebook...my mom is HOOKED on Facebook! So she insisted that I send her pics for her to post right away.  So the beach was perfect-for sitting on the beach.  Gus however wanted in the water and it was cold!  Mom got her feet in a bit, but I thought they were nuts!  I like seeing how you've found a favorite beach.  Is it still really warm there???

So the my mom's highlight was walking downtown Chapel Hill and passing a Gigi's Cupcake store.  We didn't get any right away.  Instead I forgot that mom wanted to go there and after dinner she asked if they were still open.  Trent drove her back downtown where she ended up buying a dozen cupcakes for like $40 bucks!  She was nuts about them (they are rather tasty) .  So I looked up Gigi and she has this sappy story on her website--and she happens to have 4 locations in Indiana.  So mom was pumped that Keystone had one and she planned on going once she returned!  They did end up leaving early this morning and made it back in record time.  I think we're going back for Thanksgiving but we've been back and forth about it.

So Hank Heffernan is getting so big!  He is loving building and stacking and sorting. He's so inquisitive about how things work.  We got a membership to a hands-on children's science museum in Durham and he can't get enough!  it's really interesting how different those two kids are!

Gus has been a mess...Since switching schools he's growing leaps and bounds! His teacher is phenomenal!  He was reading a Rigby level M tonight for his nightly reading.  Where his teacher at the other school said he was at a level C.  So that's super positive!!!  Here they do the written comprehension so that I believe hinders his overall instructional level on mClass.  Oh well, we're getting there and I'm super impressed!!!!  The "mess" part of him is that he's failed 2 hearing tests in his left ear; One at school and one at the dr's office for his 8 yr check-up.  That's right, he'll be 8 on the first!  So we were referred to an ENT and went last week.  Because there was clear fluid behind his ear drum, they could assess his hearing so he goes back next Wednesday and hopefully they'll figure this all out.

I am still liking my gig pretty well-  I miss Goodman and how we would work together to tackle situations and paperwork :)  but I have a good team that I like.  I have my first "announced" observation on Friday.  I'm a little stressed about it but I received 2 complements from teachers today on the work that i've done their kiddos--Can you guess how I teach my small groups???  Fluency, Voracious Reading and independent conferences :)  My kiddos are loving the songs and poems.  We are now beginning to track and make goals.  I'm feeling pretty good about how that's going-THANKS TO YOU!!!!

Did I tell you that Trent has agreed to travel????  This means that he could be sent anywhere for a period of time.  I told him that if he leaves the state, I'm moving in Hank's sitter!  It's really been a transition for me to put my job as secondary.  I can't go back to school at night and work or even go in regularly on the weekends because teachers don't have access to the building.  It's just been hard to figure out a balance, but I'm maintaining for now :)

I keep telling Trent I need a vacation and I really would LOVE to come see you...I'll look into it, if you're up for a visitor!

How are your kiddos??? Is your house still in one piece?

Oh I miss you!

Oh let me tell you!

It has been a while since I've written and checked my email for that matter.  Why you ask?  Well let me tell you....

Gus has really struggled at his new school.  He said that he liked his teacher but was getting grief from the class aide concerning what I packed for his lunch.  You and I both know what is in his lunch.  It got to the point where he'd come home to tell me that he had tried to hide his lunch so that she'd leave him alone.  This caused him to have a lot of unnecessary anxiety.  Then he was having issues on the bus.  I told him Nicole, Hank's sitter, would take him and pick him up from school, but he insisted on riding the bus.  So evidently there were 2 fifth grade girls that were being mouthy with him.  And being Gus, he wasn't going to take it.  So I guess one of the girls kicked him and he decided to take a rubber band and flick a broken crayon in retaliation.  The the other girl punched him.  So being me, I decided to email the principal and stated to her that I had reviewed the school system's harassment and bullying policy and was beginning to sense a pattern with the bus.  Who wants to deal with a parent like me--I'm turning into my sister!!!!  Anyway the situation was resolved on the bus however, Gus refused to go to school.  It got to the point where I was late 1 day and got a "warning" letter about being 15 minutes late (mind you I 'have' to be at school at 8:15 but kids don't come until 8:40)  and you may be wondering how would anyone know the exact minutes I was late? Well I have to clock in :) Super, I know!  So after this drama last Thursday night we decided he would go to school with me.  He began this last Monday.  He has a stellar teacher!!!! and I didn't choose the teacher, he was simply assigned based on numbers.  His teacher requires about 50-60 minutes worth of homework/night.  He has had no problem wanting to do it and he's actually surprising me at what he knows.  When it comes to the writing portion of it, he wants to just sit and write his stories.  He is SO happy!!!  Now he has already told me that he wants a blue teacher t-shirt so that he can be a teacher too.  And he yells at the kids that run down the hallway at dismissal, so some things haven't changed.  This has been a HUGE relief!!! 
Also Gus has found a nice group of neighborhood boys.  Every night they play and run around together.  Last night I had to go get him so that he could make jujitsu practice on time.  He refused to go and told me he wanted a new mom.  I'm still not happy about that, but I struggle because I know he just wants little buddies to play with and Trent's been getting home later than I'd prefer, so I don't want to fight with him...oh well.  Trent and him actually are out right now shopping for a new bike! 
Hank is happy as always.  Nothing to new and exciting with him.  He still loves his sitter.  Every time she leaves he says 'Bye Cole.'  He's talking so much more and she's been teaching him all kinds of fun things.
Trent still loves his job.  He's had a lot of positive recognition for what he's been working on so that's good.
I still like my school.  They really have great things in place-common lesson plans, everything posted in their rooms, 2 PLC meetings/week and they are required to plan together the other 3 days...I mean there is a LOT of expectations and additional work.  But there aren't teacher's unions here and I'm finding that really difficult.    I'm constantly being told that DPS is in litigation for this and that and it simply makes me nervous! And, there is a lot of things I'd like to change concerning my role in sped--I mean I am considered a 'resource teacher.'  That is just so 1979.  I don't like to pull kids out of whole group instruction.  But it's only been 4 weeks with kids, so I guess I'm just putting the horse before the cart right now.  Trent keeps reminding me that I need to keep my mouth shut, but you know me.  I'm not going to take someone not treating me like a competent professional.  OH WELL!!!  I do really like it and my principals and the kiddos are fun and sweet!

Ok so I'm wrapping this up so I can go check out what you've been up to these last few weeks.
Before we left school today, Gus found that little bee you gave me a few years ago.  I had it on my desk and he was asking about it.  I told him not to lose it because you gave it to me and it makes me think of you daily!
Love you so much!!!!

Fabulous First Day

Look at these lovely ladies!!!!  I sent my formal resignation letter to MCCSC last night and decided that I had better run through my email for anything that I might want.  This photo from Sandy was a keeper!

So a brief run down of the day's funness

I get home and ask Gus how was school? his reply good.  I mean come on kid!  I need details.  He said that there was 1 naughty kid that got on yellow (whatever that means).  He also shared that he made a friend.  This friend told Gus that he had a girlfriend.  Gus said he told him to go tell his girlfriend that he loved her and to show her his muscles.  My kid is SO smooth-gets it from his dad.  So Gus proceeds to tell me that this kid's girlfriend had a friend that Gus likes.  I asked him what she looked like and he says she's tall like him and blonde.  I mean REALLY????  We'll see how this all pans out.  He said his teacher is really nice and that they share the same birthday.  He wasn't too happy about not riding the bus.  I tried calling transportation 3 times today and got nothing.  So he's once again upset about not getting to ride the bus tomorrow.  He told me he would get on yellow tomorrow so that he could be sent to the principal and then talk to her about this bus situation.  I told him he had better be excellent and that I'd write a note instead :)

Hank=Happiness!  Had a super terrific day with the new gal!  You can tell she's a natural with kiddos.  This makes me feel happy too!

I have hall duty in the 4th/5th grade hallway before and after school.  I tried my best to interact with all kids that would indulge me.  It was weird not to know any of them.  I sat ALL day in an office with the other "EC" teachers trying to finalize our schedules.  I finally had to get some interaction with kids so I wandered down to the cafeteria and talked to some 4th graders about their day.  They seemed cheerful.  I  tried calling HR several times and only left messages.  I'm really wanting to wrap all this paperwork business up!

ok so it's 1030 and Gus has yet to take a bath...Hank is clean and now playing with toys :)  I'm exhausted and I didn't even have kids today!  Hopefully we'll all quickly get into a better routine!

It's been a LONG week!

This is that sculpture in downtown Chapel Hill (Hank running from me).  Don't you just love my photos and that I always have to explain them???  This is what I was taking about on your blog.  You and Goodman put me to shame!

So it's been a ridiculously long and wild week.  I'm still very excited about my new job.    I have still not signed a contract due to additional drama with HR, but I'm not complaining-well I will be next Friday when I don't have a paycheck...  Anyway I met the you of this school.  She even types extensive notes during meeting on her MACbook and wears fun earrings!  It's very weird.

We had Gus' open house last night.  His teacher is very sweet and she has 2 aides in her room!  I noticed her CAFE board and mentioned it.  She said that this year is the first year for the school to go to this model but she's been using for a few years now.  After talking to her for a bit, we went to find out bus info.  That was a mess.  Still not sure what bus he's riding or pick-up times.  I then made him go back to the front door and show me how to get to his class.  This school has 900 kiddos so it's rather large.  Luckily for him, his room is down the first hallway.  Overall I think he's excited.

After Gus' open house, I had mine.  Trent was to be home by 5, but wasn't.  I had to take the boys with me.  I was hoping that my open house assignment was NOT at the front door because I was nervous about the boys running around.  So I arrive to school with the boys and guess where I was to stand? FRONT DOOR.  Luckily for Trent, he arrived right after 6 when they opened the doors.  The kids were so excited and happy!  I hated not knowing any of them, but I tried to talk to as many as I could.  There is a large hispanic population in this area, thus we have a lot of families that speak spanish.  I told Trent I really need to take a course or two and learn some of the basics.  Overall I'm very excited about getting started working with kids! NOT excited about paperwork.

So it's Hank's turn...He's been happy and cheerful mostly.  We've had major unnecessary drama with the sitter.  I like her very much, but she was significantly late Tuesday which caused me to be late for my meeting.  I get home and they are still in jammies or next to nothing.  And on Wednesday Gus ate nothing all day and Hank only ate marshmallows and chocolate milk.  I don't mind the pjs as much as i mind the not eating thing.  So Trent and I have been interviewing more people-I finaly told trent last night that I think she'd be fine if we simply talked to her about these things...I mean I have, but not to the extent that I really should.  So not sure what's going to happen there.

Jill, Andy, Layne Nhi and the Chinese exchange student will be here NEXT Friday!  I'm thrilled about this!  It will be nice to see them.  When I talked to Layne Nhi last week she told me that 6th grade was hard.  I told her that's why I don't teach it!  I've talked to Jill every night this week.  Her car was broken into Monday night.  Evidently it happen all around the neighborhoods near cascades.  Jill is freaked!  She's now getting a security system installed.  We lived in 3 houses down for 2 years with the house unlocked most of the time and nothing.  She moves into the neighborhood and 3 weeks later, this happens.  She stressed this to me a few times.  That's her luck though.

Well I need to head out :(  But at least today I get to be in my room ALL day!!!

Keep taking gorgeous pics and making me jealous!

My New Digs

So I've been MIA.  Everything that could have gone wrong, has :(  My paperwork for DPS has been a mess.  I still don't have everything completed with HR.  The 'HR technician' assigned to me evidentially quit at some point last week.  I am not even going to tell you about it because I don't want relive it again.  So I am to report Monday at 8:30 for my first Bulldog faculty meeting.  I went in today just to wander around.  Fortunately I ran into the right people ( Sped facilitator, RTI coach, assistant principal and the day custodian)  and they were helping me figure my room situation out.  So this is a pic of my new room.  The few bits of furniture that were in there are older than me, but I'm NOT complaining!  I'll have this room all to myself.  It has a door that opens out into a good sized courtyard.  Through discussing my room situation, I found out that the other sped gal is grouchy and this will be her last year of teaching.  Super excited about that...  After being there today, I finally am beginning to feel excited about teaching.  I've been having dreams about FV folks lately.  It's just so sad to have to move on.

So onto the other mess I've had- We enrolled Hank at this 5 star preschool several weeks ago.  We were told there was not a wait list for his age group and just to call a week prior to him starting.  I called Monday and guess what? They have no recollection of him and now have NO openings!  After freaking out for a few days, plan B is now to hire someone to stay here with Hank and help get Gus on and off the bus.  We are interviewing a girl tonight and one in the morning.  I PRAY this works out!!!!!  It's going to cost nearly twice as much as we were paying before, but it's worth it to me!

I haven't even been reading your blog or checking up on you through FB.  I promise I will today! Sorry to be out of the loop

My first experience working for DPS

No I have nothing to share yet...I'm heading out shortly for an "Intake" session for new employees.  I have such mixed emotions.  I miss FV so much.  After talking to my sister and getting texts from friends about how weird it is that I'm not in the building, it just makes me so sad :(  And there are some kiddos that I feel like I abandoned because I didn't get to at least tell them I was leaving.  I have yet to have closer I suppose...

So the big question is who in the world is keeping the boys while I'm at this ridiculous thing?  I was freaking out trying to think about what we were going to do...I even asked Trent if he was already allowed to take a day off of work.  So after talking with a really nice family at the pool, they said they use care.com to find sitters.  A total stranger watching my kids? NO! ... Well we had no choice.  After reviewing some, we found this great gal, Amanda.  She came yesterday and met the boys.  Gus is so pumped for her to come today!!!!  She happens to be a 3rd grade teacher with DPS.  So we talked about that for a bit too.  Overall, I feel good about this.  My only concern is whether or not the boys will be good for her.  I'll let you know how this goes...

Are you beginning to feel better?  getting on a normal sleep schedule? 

I miss you so much! 

It's Hank Heffernan's Birthday!

This is Hank a few nights ago hiding in a sculpture in downtown Chapel Hill.  It's labeled not to get on or climb it, so I figured hiding in it was ok.

It's been rather uneventful day thus far...I suppose we'll party it up once Trent gets home.  This morning once both boys were up and around, they began fussing over a toy.  I told Gus 'it's his birthday, let him have it.'  His reply as he stomped off "Hank's birthday needs to be over now"  What a pill!  So before we went to the pool I took him to McDonald's to cheer his pouty self up a bit.

The other night for whatever reason I was signing Barbra Ann and Gus asked me if it was a real song.  I said yes it's a real song!  Then we looked it up on youtube to prove it.  Gus then asked me what was the very first song ever made.  I told him I wasn't sure.  He said "Call Dr. H.  She knows everything."  It made me miss you so much, him talking about you!  I told him I would ask, so we need an answer missy!

Hang in there getting over the jet-lag.  That's got to be rough!  Are you unpacking? or how does all that work with sending your things?? Is #1 son loving being in charge of the house?  Have the other two boys moved in?

Gus is now an Eagle!

Here are the boys outside of Gus' new school!  Gus is busy telling Trent how it would be if he went shark fishing.  Trent is trying to explain to Gus how important it is to do well at school and be a productive citizen.  Hank is playing with his tractors.  I'm am trying to get them back in the van because I'm hungry!!!

Enrollment was successful as far as I know.  The "data manager" aka secretary, was out at the time so the  principal and assistant principal were trying to help me as much as possible.  They both seemed super nice yet not nice enough to give me an interview.  Oh well I really didn't want to be at the same school as Gus.

So here is the proof we went to the park last night.  Do you see Hank's feet??? Don't worry both boys had baths when we got back home.  Gus found a pal that was 9 to play with.  He had actually moved from Indy!!  He was such a cool little guy.  He had a little sis, maybe 5 or 6, that enjoyed being "it"  playing tag.  This park has a memorial rose garden that Hank was pushing his stroller through.  Then we found this little bench and watched people walk their dogs!  Trent took me for ice cream before the park. At least I was in a good mood and the weather was pleasant so I may be willing to do the park again.

Did I tell you that Trent told Gus he could have a small pet like a fish or hamster?  Were you at FV when I unintentionally killed the goldfish and guppies?  Hamster-NO!  I can't even keep Frank the plant alive.  So we stupidly went to Petsmart and before we walked in I said we are NOT getting anything today.  Once we got in the store, Gus begged!!!!  We did NOT end up with anything...The night before all this, Gus rescued a baby frog from the swimming pool.  Trent allowed him to keep it in a bucket.  So the next morning we are all on the porch and Gus is holding this little frog and it gets loose.  Hank is screaming.  I am screaming and trying not to spill my coffee on Hank.  Gus and Trent are scrambling to find it.  Gus finds it by accidentally stepping on it...he picked it up, with it's eye hanging out, then Trent tells him that the frog is fine.  Gus finally decides to set it free by throwing it off the porch, which is on the second floor.  I pray for this little frog.   He would have had a better chance with the chlorine from the pool :(

More Fishing Funness

We have been fishing 4 of the last 5 evenings.  Gus has been more entertained by asking other fishermen about catfish than actually fishing.  This pic was taken at the Bell Church Pier off of Jordan Lake.  This lake evidently has the largest population of eagles on the east coast!  Eagles and fish, what more could Gus want?  On this particular evening we stopped to get actual bait.  I was not pleased when Trent comes back to the car with this bucket of live minnows.  YUCK-O!  I fussed that the nasty minnow water had better not spill in my van.  As you can see we made it to the pier with the minnows.  Gus wasn't afraid to grab them but there was no way he was going to put them on the hook.  Hank was screaming in delight at the little boogers trying to jump out of the bucket!  They haven't had much luck with catching anything.  Yesterday we just went down to our little pond here and I took some saltine crackers to feed the sweet turtles.  After we went through most of the package Gus and I spotted a catfish in the mix of 6 turtles we were throwing crackers to.  Trent wasn't fast enough with the fishing rod.  He later claimed that he hooked one, but I think it was just a tale.  Although whatever he had broke the line.  Anyway, I am done with the fishing!  I've never been one to have enough patience for sitting and being quiet.

Gus is feeling sad about not having any friends :(  For him to actually talk about it, just breaks our hearts!  Trent said we need to make more of an effort to take him places where there are actual kids.  I told Gus all he needs is us. You should have seen his face after I said that.  Like I said school doesn't start until the 26th so I guess I'll have to take him to the park.  I despise the park.  Other people's kids and dirt-NO THANKS!

I was super happy to see you arrived!  I can't wait to being hearing of your adventures beginning with whether or not you got a Sunday bagel! 

Looks can be deceiving

I told you I was going to have to actually cook in order to use all the peaches Trent purchased.  So here it was fresh out of the oven last night.  I found a recipe online with great reviews so I thought 'how could I go wrong?'  I'm telling you this is why I NEVER cook!  I took a bite and it was not good.  Trent took a bite and asked if I put nuts in it.  NO I did NOT put nuts in it.  I was laughing so hard I was crying.  So I still have lots of peaches left and not sure what I'm going to do with them.  He also bought a mess of fresh green beans.  I haven't fixed fresh green beans since I was probably 10!  So I called my grandma earlier to make sure I knew what I was doing there.  I intend on fixing those tonight, we'll see.  I think I disappoint my grandma sometimes.  Often she'll say 'you would have never known you grew up on a farm.'  She doesn't say it to be mean, but I think she is just surprised at how I've turned out in some domestic departments.

Jill called me last night to fill me in on the details of her move thus far.  She says the neighborhood is quiet without the boys around.  Evidentially they got ANOTHER cat.  She didn't tell me but my mom did.  She usually doesn't tell me those kinds of things because she'll hear a lecture.  I knew even with 3 dogs and 3 cats already this was bound to happen.  Her and Layne Nhi have been volunteering on Friday evenings at the Owen county no-kill shelter.  Layne Nhi has been trying to get my mom to adopt some sort of animal companion.  

We've done nothing eventful today.  I'm waiting on some stuff from MCCSC that I need before submitting my application for a NC teaching license.  I'm not sure if my hire with depend on if I get my license transferred or if they have enough to go ahead.  Either way I'm not too worried.  I am relieved that I won't have to worry about a classroom, but I would like to have a key and nose around a bit.  Teachers go back on the 21st, I think, and kids start on the 26th.  I still have plenty of time to get things squared away.

Have you been eating at all your favorite places?  I remember that when Katie came back from Turkey that it took her awhile to get use to american food again.  I suppose Peter can always cook until you find some great places.  Just a few days now!!!

Busy Day!

So Gus has been on this fishing kick lately and has now been requesting to go swimming in a lake.  We headed to Umstead State Park.  It's between here and Raleigh.  I was researching it a little last night and found out that prior to 1966 when the park was renamed after a governor, it was actually 2 parks, one for whites and one for blacks.  That just seemed so unusual to me.
As you can tell by the pictures we ended up in canoes.  It only cost $5 for an hr on this little lake within the park.  I still can't decide if having Hank with me was more difficult than having Gus.  We found out that you can barrow their fishing poles and return them to the visitors center.  Gus is dying to catch a catfish.  Luckily they didn't have any in this lake.  Overall I think Mr. Brown and the boys would have been proud of us!

After the park we headed back to the NC state farmers market that we went to last weekend.  The boys and I stayed in the van and sent Trent to find things.  He bought a lot of peaches so now I have to figure out something to make in order to use them.  THANKS TRENT!

Once we got back to the house, I sent Trent to Target to get Hank some diapers.  He comes back an hour and a half later with Target Brand diapers.  Now I'm all one for store brand items with the exception of a few things, vanilla wafer cookies, most cereals and diapers.  So he caught all kinds of grief concerning this matter.  He said he knew he probably would and now we have a bet as to how they will hold up.  I'm nervous I might be wrong.

Gus had a fundraiser dance tonight for scholarships at the martial arts center where he's taking jiujitsu.  He and Hank had a wonderful time.  There were two girls there and one was trying to get Gus to dance with her.  When Trent asked him why he wouldn't dance with her, he said that he liked her friend with the long blonde hair.  Turns out she was 12.  So at least we know his type!

Well Jill and Andy had their closings on both houses yesterday-so they have been moving.  I told Trent if we were still on Skyline, they'd only be 3 houses down.  Trent didn't like that thought...not that I blame him.  I love his family, but wouldn't want them that close.  So I'm feeling a little guilty that I can't be there helping them with things, but from what I've heard they are doing fine without me.  I think this coming Friday is when their Chinese exchange student comes for 10 months!  I sure hope that works out too.  I'll be interested to see how she settles in so quickly before school starts.  She's 16 and will be at North.  I'll fill you in when I get details.

I just asked Trent if Hank had peed out of his diaper.  His response "No.  It's a perfectly fine diaper."

Still feeling excited about you...only a few days!!!!  You're going to have so much fun!!!

Feeling Lazy

I've been feeling rather sorry for myself these last four days...not sure why.  The weather is hot and we've not done too much because of it.  I think that's making me feel lazy although I've actually cooked twice this week!  That makes it twice in over a month!  I think Gus has been feeling grouchy too.  He was being rather difficult last night.  I bought him this journal/book at the comic store that has one of his favorite shows characters in it.  So it gives you a little background into one of the episodes then asks you to write something.  I thought this would make Gus more interested in writing.  Last night he was to write about a dream he had and after writing a few words he said in a very aggravated voice 'Why did you buy this?  I don't want to write.'  Let's just say the evening went downhill from there.

Trent is protesting Direct TV-Did I tell you this???  When we moved we had the service suspended because we didn't know where we were moving so now Trent has something against Direct TV so we have yet to get cable.  I've been on Hulu, Netflix and Redbox-all streaming movies and shows.  I have missed the news terribly!  I read Huffington Post to get any world new...regardless he needs to end this boycott and get me some Dance Moms!  He did have me hooked on Arrested Development-It's Hilarious!!!  So I had to watch all the episodes.  Gus even got into it a little.  Thank goodness he didn't understand some of the adult things...now I'm on to Downton Abbey.  Gus and Hank watched Fat Albert last night.  They loved it.  I forgot how cheesy cartoons use to be and that we only got to watch them on Saturday mornings.

Anyway our newest favorite place has been the Carr Mill Mall (www.carrmillmall.com). It's historical and reminds me a little of Fountain Square. They have this great toy store that the boys obviously enjoy and a little pizza parlor that's delicious!  We've been there twice this week.  I think we're going to head there for lunch today.  I'm just concerned that the boys will want toys every time we go-because you know we'll give in.  I'll let you know how it goes!

Train Ride

So Trent found this place about 30 minutes from here that offers steam and diesel train rides.  It's sounds better than it was...You can only imagine all the little boys that were there.  When we had first mentioned it to Gus he pretended he was sick so that he wouldn't have to go.
So they have these old train cars you can look through while you wait for the ride.  Once you board and the train starts going there is this old guy that asks to see tickets.  I thought 'what are they going to do to me if I don't show the ticket? throw us off? ' I know they were trying to make it like riding a train would have been, but I felt it to be rather lame and was not happy that I had to get up early for this. Overall the boys had a great time which is what matters most.  When we were walking back to the car Gus said 'mom don't be grumpy'  I was surprised because I hadn't said anything.  my reply was 'well i don't mean to be grumpy but I'm hot.'  He said he was hot too and not to be grumpy about it.  He's such a stinker!  Here my 7 year old is telling me to suck it up.  So once we got home I took a nap and felt better.

Last night I ventured to Target by myself, got lost but found my way back-i was too stubborn to call Mr. Navigation.  Earlier in the day I had read Gus' new school's parent manual and was excited to see the 2nd grade school supplies list.  I needed an excuse to look through all the school supplies.  So Target had the section and it was in the back of the store near outdoor furniture.  There was a lady sitting in an outdoor chair reading gossip magazines with her shoes off.  Can you believe that????? I was shocked.  Why do people think that that's ok?

Oh well....We are venturing to the Raleigh Farmers Market today.  We were told it has an extensive selection.  Trent has intentionally not purchased fruit the last 4 days because he's holding out for today.
I'll let you know how that goes.

Meet Frank

He's the newest addition to our fam.  Not sure if he's going to live.  I'm not even sure what kind of plant it is.  I've been wanting some large outdoor plants for the deck.  So when we happened to drive past a Lowes, we stopped.  Trent didn't like anything I wanted and then when we did both agree Trent had to bring up the fact that once killed a cactus--I didn't want to be reminded.  So I didn't get anything I wanted and Trent bought Frank.  He and Gus finally settled on the name.  The poor thing didn't know what kind of home he was going to.

Oh well-  Nothing exciting these last 3 days other than the pool.  I am trying to get Gus excited about this local steam train ride that they have within the area, but he's not into it at all.  Hank is really into the Thomas the train stuff right now so I think he'll like it.  Gus is just going to have to take one for the team I suppose.  Tonight when I picked him up from jiujitsu, he had this bigger boy on the ground.  He's really learned a lot in 2 lessons.  I hope this doesn't backfire on me.  When we got out of the van I asked him to take his "Gi" and he said "mom, it's called a shirt"  I replied "no, it has a specific name" he said "ok it's an outfit"  I just shook my head.

Hank Heffernan has been rather naughty.  He's doing everything Gus does.  And when I get onto him he either gives a sad, pouty face or says 'no' and laughs.  He'll be 2 on Aug. 6th and I've never liked it when people refer to his age as the terrible-twos, but with him it just might be fitting.

Our Atlantic Ocean Adventure

So Yesterday we ventured to the ocean.  After what should have been a 2 hour drive we made it to Carolina Beach in Wilmington.  After about 20 minutes playing we were looking like the 2nd picture.  Trent claimed he had tracked the weather and said it was going to be fine...we went back to the beach after about 10 minutes another front was coming in.  So we changed in the van (lots of fun let me tell you) and headed to the USS North Carolina in Wilmington.  Gus LOVED it!!!! as you can tell by the first picture.  We learned a lot, but not as much as I had liked.  Gus was like a pinball going to this and that the entire time.  He had a good time so I guess that's all that matters...we then found Cape Fear and wondered around it for some food.  Ended up eating at 'Fat Tony's.' I DO NOT recommend this place!!! Trent asked the waiter if the movie "Cape Fear" was filmed there and the guy didn't even know there was a movie titled Cape Fear... we then had earlier promised we'd go back to the beach.  This time we went to Wrightsville Beach-MUCH BETTER!!!!  Gus and Hank both enjoyed it.  Hank preferred to collect shells and Gus made friends in the ocean.  I posted some pics of this on FB.  We then made an attempt to walk the pier, but evidentially it was a fishing only pier and you had to go through this fishing store to enter it, so Gus was rather disappointed that he didn't see the guys fishing.  We then headed back to the van and Gus was bummed :(  He wanted to "go back and play with my friends."  Trent said "we need to get that kid some friends."  So we headed home around 8:30, overall having had a great day!

Today we did more exploring of Durham.  The American Tobacco District was incredibly cool and interesting.  You would have loved it!  When you come visit me, I'll take you there.  I'll send some pics so you get a better idea.  We left before the Durham Bulls played, found a Ben and Jerry's and headed home for late naps!

It looks like Trent will start his new job NEXT week, so we're trying to do all we can while we can.  The boys and I will be very sad.  I have only drove in the van by myself twice and the first time doesn't really count.  I am VERY directionally challenged and am concerned about getting lost...so without Mr. Navigation, we'll probably stay around here.

Not sure what the plan is for tomorrow, but I think we're going to try to head to the Outer Banks later in the week if the weather looks good.

Gus-isms

So Gus has simply been hysterical with the random things he says.  So Trent and I are trying to come up with a fun way to document these things.  If you have any ideas, please share!!!

Today he's said the following:

"I told my dad he was goofy."
"Those catfish are wicked awesome."
"I'm going to catch a hammerhead shark and then we'll have to keep it in a pool so I can play with it."
"Mom I don't want you at my new school.  You go to a new school too."

Carolina Blue VS. Duke Navy Blue

I said I wouldn't do it...Trent has been on me about getting UNC gear to wear and I just can't bring myself to do it. Everyone we've talked to said you have to choose a side.  In chapel hill, it's UNC nuttiness!! Trent spoke the word 'duke' and a woman said "don't cuss in this store."  It really is insane!   Even their buses are 'Carolina blue' and I thought I'd be happy with that because I like to think I look good in blue, but I think I look better in navy.  So back to this shirt Trent just had to get me-I wore it this afternoon and I feel stupid in it. I mean I was very self conscious wearing it...I kept wondering if people were looking at me knowing I was a fraud...oh I'm so bizarre.  Well I had an IU sweet 16 shirt on at the pool a few days ago and this older guy came up and said 'I was sad to see you are an IU fan.' Turns out he's from Ohio but still it's just a shirt. 

So Gus put a necklace around his neck today and said that "the ladies will like him if he tells them he's Mexican."  NOT joking here-  Trent said that the ladies like it when you're smooth. 

So later Gus said his dad was smart handsome and smooth.  Then with my quick thinking I told him that the ladies like when you write letters.  I was making an attempt to get him to practice those writing skills of his...ill let you know how that goes :/

Hope you have a good laugh last night!! And I'm anxious to hear more of the leasing of a car.. This sounds like an excellent idea!  I'm sure you can get a cute little one...like that poster of the yellow mini cooper you had in your basement office at old FV.  

fishing

First off I'm sorry for slacking on the blog-internet was to be installed yesterday but wasnt so now we are waiting until Thursday. ..and I hate typing on Trents phone-anyway

So trents mom and grandma were down from wednesday until sunday morning.  It was nice tohave them here. We ate at a restaurant named Top of the Hill.  It's on a rooftop overlooking Franklin st in chapel hill AND it had the best food!!!  You would love it!

We also did some exploring of Duke. It's gorgeous. ..ill text you some pics!

We found a lake called Governors lake.  They had a little marina and fishing docks.  Gus was so excited. So yesterday trent thought it was time to take gus fishing.  We went to the little dock at our place.  I had some bread and the turtles geese and bass fish came right u p.  Hank was a little excited mess!  Well it quickly went south with hank heffernan there...he keep getting into the hooks.  Gus was yelling at him that he was ruining his first time fishing.  Well then both boys got tangled up in the fishing string.  I was laughing so hard and trent didnt think it was too funny.  Then it got worse... gus hooked a turtle.  Trent struggled to get the hook out and gus was crying.   It eventually broke the string and swam off with the hook...I'm worried it went off to die :(  ive got some pics of this little adventure too that ill send.

Lastly, what little ive been keeping up with the news, ive been very worried about your travels to the holy land.  Gus asked where you were moving to. So we pulled up a map...now hes worried too.  Ill feel relieved once you get there and get settled in.

I'm always thinking of you and stuff I want to tell you...miss you so much!

Air matress

Nothing good can come of that title. .. so we were on our way back to btown when trents sistercalled and said that she and trents dad would load everything up and drive it here for us. How amazing is that? So I told trent to put me up in a jhotel until our matress arrived. His plan was an air matress. My neck and upper back are so sore. I know I shouldnt complain because it is a step up from the floor, but come on.  He said it was better than having to sleep in the van. I disagree!   So 1 more night and ill have my matress and maybe a massage too!

What's all this exploring I'm reading about on your blog and Facebook?  You've been very busy!  are you ready to head out in a month?

Name That Turtle

Hank and I walked on the dock near the pond this morning.  We saw this little guy and Hank was so excited!!!  Then we saw 2 more!  Hank pointed to the smaller of the three and said "baby."  

I think we're ALL going to head back tonight.  After looking at flights and having to sit through layovers (there were NO direct flights), Trent said he'd prefer we just all go back.  Gus is not happy about this.  He keeps saying 'just buy new stuff' or 'i'm not going back to america.'  He's hilarious.  So we've threatened no swimming or minecraft if he keeps it up.  Anyway, if we do head back tonight, we'll load up first thing in the morning and head right back.  So I'm sure I won't have time to see anyone :(  If by chance we stay longer, I'll call!

Best dinner yet!

So I didn't have my phone when we went to dinner but I did want to share every minute with you...we randomly found this place called "sandwich".  It's on the chapel hill version of kirkwood which is Franklin st. Anyway we were walking down Franklin st and the clouds moved in quickly. We walked into a Mediterranean  deli and then walked out.  we looked at lots of menus posted outside restaurants to no avail then it started to rain so we rushed across the street and found this place.  I'm not sure what to compare it to but I had a delightful sandwich and Trent had what he said was the best burger he's had in a  long time. They even had a cookie that was called "antidepressant chocolate chip cookie"... Everything was local and fresh.  It is defiantly a place we'll visit together!!!

Btw Trent is getting into me blogging to you.  He just asked me if I had told you about the restaurant yet.  He found the super target this evening so he's happy!! Gus found a fun comic book store so he's happy too and I already texted about poor hank.  Not sure how the nose bleed thing happened but he's been running around here as spry as can be.

Forest Theater

This is totally you're thing!
So we ventured more this afternoon on UNC campus and within the botanical gardens is this really cool outdoor theater.  It's called Forest Theater then we walked through Battle Park where we saw 2 deer!  Very fun adventure!!! We then found yet another hotel. This time in Durham.  At least it was early enough where we all went swimming and felt relax.
Tomorrow morning we get the keys to our new place-  Farrington Lake.  Still not sure which of us will venture back to btown to get our things, but if it's me I'll let you know!
Miss you but I'm thinking of you all the time!!!

Days 1-3

So after lots of searching we've felt the most at home with Chapel Hill.  Like I said in my text it's like Kirkwood only longer and 4 lanes of traffic, but it's gorgeous!  We found a place Farrington something.  It has 2 pools and a pond.  The boys found a turtle in the pond and were trying to feed it leaves.
Everywhere we walk I think "Oh I have to take Lee there" or "Lee would love this"  I already told Trent when you get back from the Holy Land, you're coming straight here!

Hank has a new word "Dodo" aka donut.  Isn't that sad!  I'm ready to be done with the hotels and living in the van.  You should see it!  Gus insisted on having hot chocolate from a gas station on the way here and he spilled it all over his side of the van.  When the door opens it now has a sticky sound-YUCK!!!

I have so much I want to tell you...Hank Heffernan has been a trooper, especially in the van!
Gus has been his usual self....ok I have to go Trent is getting fussy.  I'll try to be better about this bog thing!!!

And so it begins...

I had a great time at dinner! The girls joining us was a nice surprise too.  I got the the end of your driveway and started balling.  I called Trent  and he asked me what was wrong.  He seemed empathic...At least enough not to ask me to go get snacks! Thanks for a great last night in Btown!

I'm going to miss you!