tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-135921562024-03-12T20:28:27.460-07:00Margot AthenaFinally Five!Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600424716604352520noreply@blogger.comBlogger216125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-54869045894718619622010-05-03T19:26:00.001-07:002010-05-03T19:36:59.473-07:00Lilacs and MuseumsLast weekend, we went to the Duniway Lilac garden here in Portland. It was a beautiful day, and almost every plant there was blooming. The smell was amazing!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4570803491/" title="Lilac sky by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4570803491_10e7c6a7ba_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Lilac sky" /></a><br /><br />Lilacs are some of my absolute favorite flowers, and we had fun smelling each one of the tiny flowers and Ben found a five petal beauty:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4571440190/" title="Five petal lilac by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4571440190_1756a25006_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Five petal lilac" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4570803885/" title="Margot and Dad by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3495/4570803885_9d5f286b7d_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Margot and Dad" /></a><br /><br />We have had the opportunity recently to visit some really cool places in Portland for free. The Portland Art Museum, OMSI, and many other places offer free or majorly discounted nights for families once a month. We decided to take advantage and found out that Margot TOTALLY digs the museum! She has been twice in as many weeks, and really seems to love the oil paintings. I found it funny that she kept commenting on the "cute baby" (Jesus) and all of the "crowns" (halos) everyone was wearing. <br /><br />It has been rainy, windy and nasty here all day but pretty soon the summer weather (and visitors..... Hi Missy!) will be here and we have so much planned for those months. I am looking forward to more regular posting soon and hopefully a ton of new pictures of how our baby is growing up.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4570802893/" title="Margot with daisies by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3469/4570802893_6e8df929c0_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Margot with daisies" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-89722690628683882322010-04-05T10:37:00.000-07:002010-04-05T10:51:15.905-07:00EasterHi Everyone.... Remember us?<br /><br />I am home this morning while Ben is testing for job opening (!) so I thought I would post a few Easter pictures and a general catch-up while I had the time. We had a wonderful time over Easter, as usual. We started the weekend with coloring 120 eggs at the Athena Fire Station. Margot likes to color eggs, but wasn't too thrilled with Papa's hat:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4490228274/" title="Grumpy Firefighter by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4490228274_6c1ee5f2e6_m.jpg" width="160" height="240" alt="Grumpy Firefighter" /></a><br /><br />I took a few pictures myself, but then had to jump in and help. I can't resist! I have been coming here for over 20 years now to color eggs:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4489579577/" title="Coloring with Mama by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/4489579577_3cdc0d1feb_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Coloring with Mama" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4490220578/" title="Avatar Hands by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4045/4490220578_d1f2c16823_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Avatar Hands" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4490219332/" title="Eggs by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4490219332_dc55de5264_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Eggs" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4490226848/" title="Coloring Hands by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4490226848_027cf95f1e_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Coloring Hands" /></a><br /><br />No pictures this year from the fire truck ride - it was FREEZING and kinda raining, so I couldn't hold on to the camera. The next day, Margot was all dressed up and ready to hunt.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4490229906/" title="Easter Dress by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4490229906_6fd7153ab5_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Easter Dress" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4489587797/" title="On the Hunt by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4489587797_9bb3fd352f_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="On the Hunt" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/4490232562/" title="Margot finds an egg by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4490232562_17ce6cc4da_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Margot finds an egg" /></a><br /><br />At the Easter egg hunt, they have a gold and silver egg in each age group, and then a dozen or so "ugly" eggs that are worth a quarter each. Margot found an ugly egg right away, but wouldn't pick it up because she didn't think it looked good enough for her basket. Even when Ben told her it was worth money, she just couldn't bring herself to pick up the ugly egg. Crazy kid!<br /><br />Pre-school has been going well for Margot and she had made some really good friends this year. Spring has been full of play-dates, Zoo outings and lots of laughs. I can't believe she will be starting kindergarten in the fall. Ben and I are terrified.<br /><br />I hope everyone had a great weekend!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-59440411527382599892009-12-23T16:40:00.000-08:002009-12-23T16:53:29.945-08:00Christmas MemeBecause everyone else is doing it and I think it is fun, I am going to take the Christmas quiz, providing answers for myself and Margot. Let's begin, k?<br /><br />Eggnog or hot chocolate? <br /><br />Me: Neither. I think eggnogg is GROSS and I don't drink hot liquids. So there.<br />Margot: What is eggnogg? I think I would like it!! And I love Hot Chocolate! Especially with marshmallows! And whip cream! Sugar!!<br /><br /><br />Does Santa wrap the presents or leave them open under the tree? <br /><br />Me: Santa wraps the presents, using the same wrapping paper every year. <br />Margot: I love Santa!<br /><br /><br />Colored lights on a tree or white? <br />Me: Colored, blinking flashing, white, chasing - I just love lights!<br />Margot: I like pink lights! I love Christmas trees! Can I have one in my room??<br /><br /><br />Do you hang mistletoe? <br />Me: No, but I like to kiss under it!<br />Margot: What is mistletoe? Does it have sugar in it?<br /><br /><br />When do you put your decorations up? <br />Me: Day after Thanksgiving. <br />Margot: Let's keep them up all year!! All holidays!! I still have a turkey on my wall!<br /><br /><br />What is your favorite holiday dish? <br />Me: Scalloped potatoes. And Prime Rib.<br />Margot: I like sweets!<br /><br /><br />Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? <br />Me: I wish! Ben is like a dictator about opening gifts early!<br />Margot: I wish! Daddy is like a dictator about opening gifts early! <br /><br /><br />How do you decorate your Christmas tree? <br />Me: We have all kinds of cool ornaments we have gathered over the years. My favorite is one that Ben got me with a picture of Margot.<br />Margot: I made a wreath ornament this year!<br /><br /><br />Snow: love it or hate it? <br />Me: Love to look at it.<br />Margot: LOVE IT!!<br /><br /><br />Can you ice skate? <br />Me: Negative.<br />Margot: Would like to try.<br /><br /><br />What is your favorite holiday dessert? <br />Me: Jarrell Family Christmas Cookies!<br />Margot: Jarrell Family Christmas Cookies!<br /><br /><br />What is your favorite holiday tradition? <br />Me: Jarrell Family Christmas Cookies!<br />Margot: SWEETS!<br /><br /><br />Candy canes: yum or yuck? <br />Me: Meh.<br />Margot: YUM! SUGAR!<br /><br /><br />Favorite Christmas show? <br />Me: The Ref<br />Margot: Charlie Brown Christmas Special! <br /><br />Merry Christams, everyone!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-47343648026764764542009-11-20T23:52:00.000-08:002009-11-21T00:19:28.719-08:00Things and StuffWell, aren't we a bit behind??<br /><br />So, I just realized that we did not take any pictures of Margot in her Halloween costume, because (wait for it....) I forgot my camera. We did have an nice time that weekend though, spent at Nana and Papa's house. Margot's favorite cousin Zoe came and spent the night on Friday and then we spent an extraordinary amount of time searching for pumpkins to carve and getting all glammed up. I was bucking for a cop this year and Ben was leaning toward ninja, but Margot wanted to be a princess for Halloween (I'll give you a moment to recover from the shock). She looked very pretty and sparkly. She got quite a bit of candy trick or treating, but we asked her if she was willing to trade the candy for a new toy and she was like "um, YEAH!" So she got a new toy and we did not have to deal with a maniacal, sugar loaded 4 year old. Everyone wins. <br /><br />Since Halloween, we have been working on a few things around the house. Ben has applied for a new job (fingers crossed, k?) and Margot is still going to preschool three times a week. She has been doing a ton of drawing lately, and is getting really good! She likes to use the fancy feather plume pen we got her for her birthday and she draws all kinds of fruit, animals and stick people. This morning she busted into our bedroom and shoved a drawing of a firefly in my face. Although I felt like punching something for being woke up in this manner, I do have to give her props for drawing an awesome firefly. <br /><br />So, I reached the pinnacle of my parenting career a few weeks ago when my sweet, beautiful child SPIT.IN.MY.FACE because I told her she had to put on a pair of pants. That's right - spit in my face. I don't think I need to point out that I spent the first seven years of my adult working life in a place where you beat the *fuck* out of someone if they spit in your face. I mean, really? Spitting? Hoo boy, was it hard not to slap that sweet little face! After I got over the initial shock, like, "Did I just have a stroke or did my kid SPIT on me?" kind of shock, I yelled at her "we do not spit" and put her in a time out. I proceeded to gather up her dress up shoes, crown, princess wand, necklace, pens, kitty meow meow, and anything else I could get my hands on and head for the trash can. It was ugly. She was howling, crying and begging for forgiveness. I couldn't help myself, I started crying right along with her. After we were both done sobbing, a long discussion ensued about how spitting is worse than hitting, anger management, making your mother go crazy, etc. It seemed to have worked pretty well. She did blow a raspberry at Ben a few days ago, but we are working through it. I gotta admit... I did NOT see this one coming. I had always felt very lucky that Margot never went through the biting stage and she has never been a hitter either, but this was just terrible. <br /><br />Anyone have any naughty kid stories to share with mother of the year over here? No judging zone, I promise!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-16296699440051493652009-08-06T09:16:00.000-07:002009-08-06T09:38:47.411-07:00Summer, bullet styleWow - we have been SO BUSY this summer! Minus the seven days we stayed hunkered indoors with 105 degree temperatures raging outside, we have been on the go. In no particular order:<br /><br />We have done some hiking<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3794256884/" title="Heart tree by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2503/3794256884_2ae5e1dd3c_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Heart tree" /></a><br /><br />took a six day camping vacation at the coast<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3794250108/" title="Daddy and Daughter by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3555/3794250108_6f0047a286_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Daddy and Daughter" /></a> <br /><br />Visited Nana & Papa<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3794258426/" title="Margot and Nana by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3570/3794258426_a17c30a90c_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Margot and Nana" /></a><br /><br />picked ten pounds of berries<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3701921401/" title="Loganberries! by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3420/3701921401_084a9efe57_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Loganberries!" /></a><br /><br />started new craft projects<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3794258226/" title="Ben's whittling project, take 1 by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2510/3794258226_c65c3ffd26_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Ben's whittling project, take 1" /></a><br /><br />Threw some craft projects across the room in frustration<br /><br />(No photo here - but it happened. And it was me. Shocking, I know)<br /><br />Watched Margot ohh and ahh at amazing fireworks<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3793435621/" title="Beautiful Night by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3572/3793435621_ea319004c7_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Beautiful Night" /></a><br /><br />And we continue to be busy with swimming lessons, ballet class, work and life. I hope everyone else is having a great summer and be sure to check out the huge flickr upload I crashed our computer with last night.<br /><br />Happy August!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3793436519/" title="Ready to hike! by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3524/3793436519_26bcc3d28a_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Ready to hike!" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-54877978741923598822009-05-10T09:37:00.000-07:002009-05-10T09:40:24.104-07:00Our FamilySometimes in life it can be hard to know if the decisions you are making are the right ones, but in the case of Margot - we are doing something right.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3519147084/" title="April Family by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3404/3519147084_7b772c847a_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="April Family" /></a><br /><br />I love you, my sweet little Mags. Thank you for making me a mother.<br /><br />Happy Mother's Day, everyone!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-58320723343633773402009-04-21T10:32:00.000-07:002009-04-21T10:40:42.948-07:00The Opposite of Indian SummerYesterday was a lovely day in Portland. It got 80 something with a light breeze. As you can imagine we spent most of the day outside (after the dew burned off). After lunch we decided it was time to clean out some of the pots. Our seedlings are coming along nicely, and they'll need to be transplanted soon. Naturally, I'd need Margot's help.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3462552617/" title="Pot Cleaning Day by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3610/3462552617_acd58b10b7.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Pot Cleaning Day" /></a><br /><br />I personally did not wear a crown, but I think it worked for Margot. Once we got a few pots cleaned, Margot's pursuits were more sensory. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3462553961/" title="Not As Tasty As Snow by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3599/3462553961_2a2b2a2318.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="Not As Tasty As Snow" /></a><br /><br />All in all, it was a fun day. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3462553733/" title="Yeah! by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3590/3462553733_2404c742a5.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Yeah!" /></a>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600424716604352520noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-30858893651565090252009-04-02T18:52:00.000-07:002009-04-02T19:14:48.862-07:00Monsters and IdolsBen has been creating all of these really cool felt "monsters" for Margot to play with. He bought a bit of felt (made from recycled plastic bottles, none the less) and embroidery thread and set out to design a few scary monster. People, these things are AWESOME:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3408503024/" title="Monster Front View by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3350/3408503024_32045623b6_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Monster Front View" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3407731347/" title="Cyclops by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3642/3407731347_0e0e753068_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Cyclops" /></a><br /><br />He even took care of the details on the back: <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3408503264/" title="Ben's Monster by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3628/3408503264_655532a561_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Ben's Monster" /></a><br /><br />The monsters are great friends who love to hang out with Margot.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3408538636/" title="Monsters and Friends by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3394/3408538636_6cf9692302_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Monsters and Friends" /></a><br /><br />I haven't quite decided if it's really cute or really pathetic that after Margot is in bed, Ben and I settle down on the couch for a little crafting before bedtime. I have to admit though, I love knitting quietly and chatting about our days while we both ooh and ahh over each other's new projects.<br /><br />In even more awesome news, I went to a book reading on Monday. The author was charming, funny, and exactly what I imagined she would be like:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3407696281/" title="Dooce speaking by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3545/3407696281_88456781db_m.jpg" width="240" height="193" alt="Dooce speaking" /></a><br /><br />For me, getting to meet Heather Armstrong was kind of like meeting my "internet idol". <a href="http://www.dooce.com">Dooce</a> was the first blog I ever read - back when I didn't even know what the hell a blog was. Her candid, heartfelt posts are more than just entertaining, and I can't even imagine the lives she has touched by writing about her struggles with parenting. Ben and I enjoyed the reading and I am so glad I waited in line to meet her - she was genuinely kind and absolutely beautiful. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3408504388/" title="Me and Heather Armstrong (!) by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3317/3408504388_0ee2b4944a_m.jpg" width="240" height="187" alt="Me and Heather Armstrong (!)" /></a><br /><br />I hope everyone has a great weekend!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-89381144029266741572009-03-05T14:48:00.000-08:002009-03-05T15:55:43.126-08:00Bathtime is the new naptimeI've finally given up on the nap. It happened a few months ago, and I've come to accept that no nap is part of our lives now. There are some days that I hope Margot falls asleep in the car, and those are usually the days she does. But most of the time, I just have a pot of coffee in lieu of a complete rest.<br /><br />However, late last year Margot started wanting to wear her bathing suit all the time and ask to go swimming. She does enjoy swimming, but for the three of us to go swimming it's not cheap, certainly out of our price range to go often. So I thought that maybe instead of going to the actual swimming pool, she could take longer baths. <br /><br />So Margot now takes long baths. She spends a long time playing the bath every day. Not hours, but this isn't your quick wash before bedtime. Usually it happens around her former nap time. While I can't nap during this time, it often gives me some time to unwind a little bit, or at least change the sheets without her jumping on the bed and it taking 20 minutes. <br /><br />Now that a new pool has opened at her preschool, we'll probably start going swimming a little more often. But she'll still want to have tea with her Hello Kitty and Willis and Ducky in the bath. And some days, that takes a wonderfully long time.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3332080444/" title="Crowned Princess Alligator Face by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3406/3332080444_3d6808b508.jpg" width="209" height="500" alt="Crowned Princess Alligator Face" /></a>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600424716604352520noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-18078820421056734502009-03-02T11:46:00.000-08:002009-03-02T11:48:42.806-08:00Maybe time for some privacy.....Scene : Margot watching me get out of the shower on Sunday.<br /><br />Margot: "Mommy, your boobs are really long!"<br /><br />Ben: Laughs HYSTERICALLY.<br /><br />Me, indignant: "Well, they weren't that way until I met you, Margot!!"<br /><br />Ben: Face is turning purple from lack of oxygen. Still laughing.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-4471926564031779142009-02-15T12:00:00.000-08:002009-02-15T12:20:34.610-08:00Love/HateMy sister in law made up a new <a href="http://www.whiletheyplay.blogspot.com">game</a> and tagged me, and then my other sister in law tagged me on <a href="http://www.startinginthebasement.wordpress.com">her</a> blog, so I had to participate in this new meme. (And of course anyone who reads this blog knows I love these time waster lists). So here is my top ten:<br /><br />Here are the rules:<br /><br />1. List 5 things you do NOT love about yourself.<br />2. Then list 5 things you DO love about yourself.<br />3. Tag 5 other people.<br />4. Check back with the 5 people you tagged. You may be surprised to find out how many things you have in common.<br /><br />LOVE:<br /><br />I really love my teeth and smile. Wearing braces was a bitch and totally expensive, but so very worth it.<br /><br />I really love my laugh. I think it is a good one.<br /><br />I really love my height. Being tall is a good thing!<br /><br />I really love my eye color. I like having blue eyes and think they are a good shade of blue. Not too grey, not too icy - just right.<br /><br />I really love that I can make friends easily. I can talk to just about anyone about just about anything. I learned this from my Dad - he is the exact same way. <br /><br />HATE:<br /><br />I hate my feet. They are huge, wide and ugly. HATE!<br /><br />I tend to value money and material things too much. This is not an endearing trait, but I am working on it! <br /><br />I am not very empathetic. Particularly related to my job, I tend to think the worst of people in certain situations. Sometimes a mistake really is just a mistake.<br /><br />I don't like my acne. I have the worst skin!! It has been horrible since I was like eight years old.<br /><br />I am often careless with my things and don't take care of them like I should. I don't know if I am just lazy or what, but I really need to take better care of my belongings.<br /><br />I should have done the hate list first because now I am kind of depressed! Ok, so i am going to tag five people, and take my advice and do the love list last!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.straightfromthebottle.blogspot.com">Deb</a><br /><a href="http://www.baby-chronicles.blogspot.com">Trisha</a><br /><a href="http://www.millieleevaughn.blogspot.com">Carrie</a><br /><a href="http://www.insanityenjoyed.blogspot.com">Genevieve</a><br /><a href="http://www.dewofbennevis.blogspot.com">Sara and/or Jonas</a><br /><br /><br />Have fun!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-78221291459516435452009-02-11T10:02:00.000-08:002009-02-11T10:06:46.393-08:00Holy Crap Internet... I knitted a hat!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3271719113/" title="Purple hat by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3413/3271719113_1b44730827.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Purple hat" /></a><br /><br />I have recently learned to knit, and I am in love with it! I have been having so much fun picking out patterns and learning new stitches. I made this <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/button-tab-hat">hat</a> for myself, and chose the yarn and buttons from Fabric Depot. The yarn is 100% baby llama, and super soft. I think I did a pretty good job! Here is a close up of the sparkly buttons I chose to decorate the hat. I think they look like ice cubes:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3272539680/" title="Close up of button detail by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3383/3272539680_111d87fb57.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Close up of button detail " /></a><br /><br />I am now going to work on a few projects for Ben and Margot, and make myself a <a href="http://cocoknits.com/knit/garments/accessories/wormscarf.html">scarf</a>. Yay!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/3271719381/" title="My new hat! by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3403/3271719381_d4f7f7cf44.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="My new hat!" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-82581450790045535692009-02-10T14:18:00.000-08:002009-02-10T14:28:21.623-08:00Margot, Queen of TightsThings have been marching right along in the Jarrell house lately. We have busy weeks full of preschool, gym class, knitting class and trying to fit a conversation in edge wise. Margot is doing great, getting taller (and sassier!) by the minute. We are buying all of her clothes in the 4T size, and some of her pants are already too short for her long legs. I guess I shouldn't worry though, since this last month she has pretty much refused to wear pants. She wants to wear skirts and dresses ONLY, and every morning before she comes out of her room she takes off her pj's and puts on whatever skirt and shirt combo she can reach in the closet. Some mornings she pops in our room looking reasonable, and some mornings I look over to what I momentarily assume is a psychotic bag lady. I know she has to be freezing 98% of the time as she doesn't like wearing her coat or long sleeves, but I think we have finally gotten through to her that she HAS to wear tights on her legs when it is snowing outside. This last weekend we took advantage of the clearance rack and bought four new pairs on tights to match her skirts and dresses. <br /><br />Any of you parents out there sharing the same affliction, may we recommend Target for tights?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-62293982013184587102009-01-05T11:15:00.000-08:002009-01-05T11:47:30.456-08:002008 Wrap Up - Only a few weeks behindOne of my very favorite <a href="http://www.sundrymourning.com">bloggers</a> does this end of the year quiz and asks others to join in, so here goes: <br /><br /><br /><br />1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?<br /><br />Learned to knit. I am surprised by how much I love it.<br /><br />2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?<br /><br />I don't make resolutions. I can't stand the New Year's holiday, so ignoring resolutions is my little "screw you" to the day.<br /><br />3. Did anyone close to you give birth?<br /><br />Yes.<br /><br />4. Did anyone close to you die?<br /><br />My Grandma. Although she and I were not particularly close, seeing my Mom lose her Mom was absolute torture. <br /><br />5. What countries did you visit?<br /><br />Crazy land - also known as our home, most days of the week.<br /><br />6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?<br /><br />More patience as a parent. Oh, and more money. Always more money.<br /><br />7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?<br /><br />Gosh, I am not sure. We had a few big days this year, but nothing exceptional comes to mind. I am sure I am forgetting something though.<br /><br />8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?<br /><br />Working on my marriage. It sounds hokey, but we had a pretty fairy-tale marriage until this last year. It was the first time we really had to work on staying happy with each other, and we did it. That makes me feel very lucky that I am married to someone who is as committed as I am to being genuinely happy together, not just existing together. <br /><br />9. What was your biggest failure?<br /><br />Oh, I screwed up a job interview or three. Live and learn.<br /><br />10. Did you suffer illness or injury?<br /><br />Just car accident related pain. Hopefully this trend has left the building.<br /><br />11. What was the best thing you bought?<br /><br />An IPod touch for Ben. He so totally deserves it, and he is so much fun to buy for. <br /><br />12. Whose behavior merited celebration?<br /><br />Almost everyone I love did something truly extraordinary this year that blew me away and left my heart bursting with pride that I know them.<br /><br />13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?<br /><br />My own. I am often careless with my personal things, and this year I really fucked up and lost my wedding ring. It makes me sick just thinking about it.<br /><br />14. Where did most of your money go?<br /><br />Bills, bills and more bills. And the grocery store. And gas. Really fun stuff!<br /><br />15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?<br /><br />The election was pretty exciting!<br /><br />16. What song will always remind you of 2008?<br /><br />Hmmm, I don't know. They all kind of run together.<br /><br />17. Compared to this time last year, are you: <br /><br />a) happier or sadder? About a wash.<br />b) thinner or fatter? A bit thinner.<br />c) richer or poorer? Again, about a wash.<br /><br />18. What do you wish you’d done more of?<br /><br />Listen. Especially to Margot.<br /><br />19. What do you wish you’d done less of?<br /><br />Eat. And maybe spend a little less money, although I don't know where the hell we could have cut costs. <br /><br />20. How did you spend Christmas?<br /><br />It felt like all we did was travel, but we did see family. Which was awesome.<br /><br />21. Did you fall in love in 2008?<br /><br />Sure!<br /><br />22. What was your favorite TV program?<br /><br />Dexter.<br /><br />23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?<br /><br />No people, but man I hate my car. Waaaay more than I hated it last year.<br /><br />24. What was the best book you read?<br /><br />Three cups of Tea. Amazing.<br /><br />25. What was your greatest musical discovery?<br /><br />Missy Higgins. <br /><br />26. What did you want and get?<br /><br />A knitting needle organizer! Seriously, I really wanted one. And I got a FABULOUS one. I think this question is supposed to be a bit deeper, like "Oh, I found the meaning of life!" or something, but the needle organizer is really cool, you guys. Srsly. <br /><br />27. What did you want and not get?<br /><br />A better job to support my family with.<br /><br />28. What was your favorite film of this year?<br /><br />I really liked Dark Knight. We didn't get out to the movies much though. I am sure I am forgetting something.<br /><br />29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?<br /><br />31, and I didn't do much. Just went to work.<br /><br />30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?<br /><br />Keeping off all the weight I lost. I have gained a bit back. It sucks. <br /><br />31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?<br /><br />Super tight to super baggy to somewhat tight again. See above.<br /><br />32. What kept you sane?<br /><br />Drugs. Ha! Just kidding. <br /><br />33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?<br /><br />Michelle Obama. She is awesome.<br /><br />34. What political issue stirred you the most?<br /><br />The fact that you can get cash back off an Oregon Trail card. Unreal.<br /><br />35. Who did you miss?<br /><br />I miss all of my friends and family who are not close to Portland, but in particular I really miss Deb! I feel like my sister has moved out and gone away to college or something. <br /><br />36. Who was the best new person you met?<br /><br />I met Kerry Tomlinson, who is a reporter and does the "Dirty Dining" series on Fox. I got the scoop on all the Portland restaurants!<br /><br />37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.<br /><br />Hang in there - Tomorrow will be better. <br /><br />38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.<br /><br />"Tale as old as time, song as old as rhyme... beauty and the beast." I think that CD needs to join the witness protection program. It is all Margot wants to hear in the car.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-30940741266752669932008-12-19T11:30:00.000-08:002008-12-19T11:31:36.104-08:00A Weekend OutAs I speak, Ben is driving to Grandma's house to drop Margot off for the night. We have not had a date night since our anniversary, and it is soooo time to get out! Dinner? Check. Movie? Check. Christmas shopping!? Check. <br /><br />I am so excited! I hope everyone had a great weekend and enjoy the snow!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-80148988634820484422008-11-28T15:13:00.000-08:002008-11-28T15:40:37.484-08:00Catch-Up TimeWe have actually had a bit of drama around the house lately, so I am woefully behind in my posting. First of all, we haven't updated our pictures in weeks now, courtesy of the broken power cord that belongs to our external hard drive. It took a dive about two weeks ago, so everything on there is trapped for the time being. One of these days we will get a new cord and then I will crash Flickr with a huge uber-upload. Promise.<br /><br />In other news, Margot seems to have a bully at pre-school. This simultaneously breaks my heart and pisses me off. The girl is named is Carly and she has hit Margot, pushed her down, and told her "YOU ARE NOT PRETTY!" Um, ok. I have a few thoughts about this, obviously. When Margot told me about the hitting and pushing, I asked Ben to talk to the teacher and find out what the hell was going on. The teacher reassured Ben that Carly is just "a rough player" and that she has a few "issues" they are working on. Ok, I can buy that. She is a year older than Margot and has multiple brothers, so I can envision rough play. I still think hitting a classmate and then pushing her down and hitting her again crosses the "rough play" line, but whatever. It seemed to be handled. A few days later, Margot told me that Carly got mad at her and told her she was not pretty. What? I think playing rough and pushing a kid down in the process is quite different that purposely trying to hurt them with ugly words, don't you think? At first I was angry and felt like punching this kid out myself - but then Ben brought up a very good point. He said that it was heart breaking to him, because it speaks volumes about the way this child is treated at home if she knows at four years old how to hurt and belittle another with words. Wow. Sometimes Ben really takes my breath away with his intelligence, kindness and empathy. I am amazed that after ten years together, he is still teaching me how to be a better person. The good news about all of this is that Margot doesn't seem to be affected at all. She isn't afraid of this girl, states very matter-of-factly "I am pretty and smart and a good girl" and hasn't been hitting anyone herself, so I guess I just need to simmer down and roll with it. I knew the day was coming when other kids would be mean, but I was envisioning third grade or something, not pre-school. Gah. <br /><br />Thanksgiving was a great day. It was very low key - just us and Grandma, then Uncle Mike and Aunt Jan. The food was awesome. Grandma made a killer huge turkey and stuffing, plus scalloped potatoes and pumpkin pie. I made mashed sweet potatoes, spanish green beans, chocolate mousse and a cheese ball. Ben made some thyme and beer hockey pucks - er, I mean biscuits. They were not good. We will just leave it at that. Not his fault, mind you, but kind of a weird recipe and maybe a little overcooked. We only had one little mishap, when I decided for no good reason to dump the entire skillet of tomatoey-green beans on the floor. Ben came to the rescue and we ate them anyway, but it did shoot tomato napalm all over my shoes, the wall, cabinets, etc. Oh well. It was good for a laugh! We played some Wii, fell into a food coma and had a nice day.<br /><br />For some odd reason I am feeling unbelievably Christmas-like this year, and I am even ready to get a tree! This never happens - I am usually the one who is like "one more week, maybe next weekend, maybe tomorrow... Oh wait, it's December 20th!" We have about negative five dollars to spend on Christmas presents, so I have been knitting, crafting, scrap booking and doing all kinds of crazy stuff at home to get ready. Maybe this is why I am so excited - I don't feel daunted about shopping, but really feel as though I have put a bit of thought into my loved ones gifts this year. I am also ready to drag out the cookie supplies and get baking! I think Margot will have fun again this year decorating, and she may even get a few decorated instead of just eating. I am cautiously optimistic.<br /><br />I hope you all have a great weekend!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-87710029956352745212008-11-05T21:12:00.000-08:002008-11-06T10:24:37.469-08:00Rocko Bama*I voted for Barack Obama because I believe he will bring the change we need now. And I believe he has the temperament and outlook to do it right.<br /><br />But beyond that, I'm happy that I can finally tell Margot with a straight face that she can be President. It's no longer theoretical. Truly, anyone born in American can grow up to be President, not just the white men.<br /><br />We've finally proven years later that America is more than just a pipe dream. It is a promise to the world that has finally been kept.<br /><br />*This is Margot's name for the President-elect.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600424716604352520noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-91742226274660281912008-11-05T19:27:00.001-08:002008-11-05T19:28:34.188-08:00Free Public Service AnnouncementFor those of you out there wondering.... Yes, it is possible to burn a bag of frozen peas in the microwave.<br /><br />I have had my ass handed to me today from the get-go. Real posting <span style="font-style:italic;">is</span> coming, I promise.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-87005392486912493972008-11-04T16:30:00.000-08:002008-11-04T16:40:32.397-08:00Election DayI have written a letter to Margot about this historic election day and what it means to me to vote, but I am going to save it for tomorrow or the the next day, as I can hardly concentrate right now with the impending election results. <br /><br />Yikes.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-55819565386095665532008-11-03T17:31:00.000-08:002008-11-03T18:11:52.838-08:00Resorting to video on day three (Pathetic!)I know, I know - only day 3 of NaBloPoMo and I am posting a video. But this is funny, I promise. This HUGE spider showed up on our garage about a month ago and the three of us almost had the big one trying to murder it. Yikes!<br /><br />By the way, I have a good excuse for resorting to video. Today I spent all day trudging around in the mud and rain at a huge training scenario where I got to watch the OSP SWAT team and Bomb squad blow the door of a house and kick some people's ass. Not only did I meet a ton of new OSP coworkers, but I got to process a "body" and accompany it with the "Medical Examiner". <br /><br />Yes, it was a cool as it sounds. <br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzayfJKvV9KXdGnegHoSMhT-lwqb5ZjH-EgBC6X8Sir-KwyekI1dKTbILJ2ptM-_j29TfwYddc-sL0' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-85625934570009716342008-11-02T15:10:00.000-08:002008-11-02T19:37:01.258-08:00Five Things I HATE about DSTOh Daylight savings time how do I hate thee...<br /><br />1. Having a child who barely sleeps until 6:30 on a really GOOD day means I now have a child who can barely stay in bed past 5am for a week until things get settled.<br /><br />2. It is pitch black outside when I get off work at 5pm. I feel so trapped by my job in these long months.<br /><br />3. My car has the most difficult clock in the history of clocks to set. It took me almost a year and a call to the Honda dealership to figure it out.<br /><br />4. Along the same lines as number 3 - we have a lot of clocks in our house, and none of them change themselves. I hate having to take everything off the wall, move it an hour and then try and get it re-centered on the wall.<br /><br />5. See number 1.<br /><br />Anything to add, loyal readers?? Am I the only one who things daylight savings time should just die already?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-66597760708479644352008-11-01T11:55:00.000-07:002008-11-01T12:06:42.867-07:00Like, Happy Halloween Man, Like, TotallyOh yeah baby, that's right...... November 1st today. And guess what that means? NaBloPoMo is upon us, and I have to think up a post every day this month to write about! Last year I made it with only a few bs entries, and this year I am committed to try and write about something people will care about (or at least I will care about) every day. Let's start with a bang, shall we?<br /><br />So last night we took Margot trick or treating for the first time. Her costume was lovingly hand made by Grandma:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/2992844536/" title="The Littlest Hippie by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3154/2992844536_345f08c246_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="The Littlest Hippie" /></a><br /><br />Any guesses?? <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/2992840600/" title="Like Wow, Man by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3057/2992840600_c838d254dc_m.jpg" width="239" height="240" alt="Like Wow, Man" /></a><br /><br />Margot was a great hippie, with the long flat hair down to her waist and peace sign permanently posed on her little fingers<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/2992841708/" title="Peace by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3031/2992841708_c1b0b79139_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Peace" /></a><br /><br />Unfortunately, the weather was kind of crappy yesterday and I had almost zero light to take these photos, so they kind of suck but you guys can get the idea<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/2992845618/" title="I'm walking away, man... by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3039/2992845618_96f4754b8d_m.jpg" width="240" height="203" alt="I'm walking away, man..." /></a><br /><br />My favorite part was the belt, which she was loving and kept sticking her hip out at people to show them the belt. It was very sparkly and really made the costume. We went into Bales for a few treats before heading back to Grandma's house, and Margot said "Trick or Treat!" to the checker, who gave her a chocolate bat. She promptly held up her peace sign and said "Peace out, Man!" and we all just about fell over laughing! She had a great time, was very polite and got a large haul of candy. After Daddy and I went through and checked the candy for "poison" (I found an Almond Joy that was suspicious.... Ben used his keen skills to identify a potentially dangerous Kit Kat) we pretty much let her unleash on the candy. She had about five pieces and was in heaven. We stayed up late with Grandma, Nick, Kayla, Mike and Jan and had a great night.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/2992000289/" title="Sucker by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3018/2992000289_b0532c36b7_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Sucker" /></a><br /><br />I hope everyone had a safe, happy Halloween and Happy November!!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-46306854867030457552008-10-06T08:51:00.000-07:002008-10-06T13:51:30.151-07:00Learn about Margot!Our dear friends daughter <a href="http://www.baby-chronicles.blogspot.com">Elise</a> was "tagged" and we are passing it along to Margot! I thought this was a cute idea and will be fun to read (or humiliate with) later in life.<br /><br />Name and meaning: Margot Athena Jarrell<br /><br />We chose Margot out of a book. There you go kid - the truth comes out. I wanted to name you Denver and your father put up the biggest revolt I have ever seen from his mild mannered personality. He thought everyone would call you "Hashbrowns" or "Omelet face" and refused to consider it. For the record, that wasn't a crazy pregnant moment. I still like the name Denver and if we ever have triplets, Ben has agreed to let me name one Denver. Which of course will not matter, because I will be dead. Triplets? Us? No way. The real reason I love Margot so much is because it is a nice name, easy to spell and pronounce, but not very common. We have yet to meet another Margot your age and I love that.<br /><br />We chose Athena because we both love the name and it is my sweet, sleepy hometown where your Nana and Papa and cousins still live. I have very fond memories of growing up there, so that is the meaning behind Athena.<br /><br />Age: 3 years, 4 months.<br /><br />Nicknames: Mags, Magpie, Margot P. Coltrane, Angel Pie, and your Daddy calls you Plum. It melts my heart every time. <br /><br />Favorite Activities: You really like to be on the move! Swimming, the park (Swings and slides!) and artwork are the most requested. You especially love painting and drawing with markers on your easel. <br /><br />Favorite Food: Cheese. You are obsessed and ask for it every meal. You are usually denied.<br /><br />Least favorite food: Salad. Every time I say the word salad you crinkle up your nose, say "EWWWW" and pronounce you don't LIKE salad. I don't know why you hate it so much, we have never made you eat salad and you like all the veggies separately, but the second it is called salad you have something to say about it! We are very lucky though, you are not a picky eater!<br /><br />Favorite Music: Barenaked Ladies, Jason Mraz, Pink Martini, They Might be Giants and of course, Raffi. Oh, the Raffi. <br /><br />Favorite Toy: Hmmm, probably Kitty Meow Meow. He is your all time favorite security, and a sweet little stuffed kitty. You also adore your books, and can usually be found holding one at all times. You are very into make-believe and pretending right now, and you are very good at it!<br /><br />Favorite item of clothing: Anything your Grandma made for Aunt Emily. You often look like a little prairie girl, sporting dresses from the early 80's, but you love them so much! You also adore the robe your Grandma sewed for you, even though it barely covers your little buns anymore!<br /><br />What makes you happy: I'd like to think us! You are happy about 98% of the time, but animals and people tend to make the biggest smiles on your sweet face.<br /><br />What makes you sad: Seeing others hurt or crying, and of course the word "No". You really need to work on that one, babe.<br /><br />Your father and I comment on a daily basis how lucky we are to have you as our daughter. You are bright, thoughtful and so beautiful, Margot. We love you so much!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/2905631361/" title="Hi! by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3040/2905631361_10d8b7f629_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Hi!" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-87326751470162312912008-10-02T14:01:00.000-07:002008-10-02T14:07:18.691-07:00Herard around the house, Part 9Margot: "Mommy, I love costumes! I love them!"<br /><br />Me: No answer, as I have a mouthful of dinner.<br /><br />Margot: "Mommy, I LOVE costumes!" (Followed by a light slap on my arm)<br /><br />Me: "Margot, did you just hit me?"<br /><br />Margot: "No Mom."<br /><br />Me: "Are you lying to me now? Why did you hit me?"<br /><br />Margot: "I didn't hit you, I slapped you!"<br /><br />Ben: "She's got you there, Lauren."<br /><br />Me: No answer. Back to dinner as I am obviously being ganged up on.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13592156.post-13410862947079128662008-09-30T16:10:00.000-07:002008-10-01T09:57:24.995-07:00PreschoolingA couple of weeks ago, September 15th, to be exact, Margot started preschool. I hear stories parents who cried their eyes out when their kids start school, but I think that's usually kindergarten. The only tears that first day were from the kids.<br /><br />Margot talked a lot about looking forward to school, and after the orientation on the 8th, she really seemed into it. We spent a lot of time over the week playing school, with the teacher (Margot) standing at the front of the class while the students (me and stuffed animals) sat and listened. The most useful thing I learned is that ice cream is yummy. Who knew?<br /><br />When the first actual day of preschool came, Margot seemed excited. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/margotathena/2902512297/" title="First day of school (pre) by darkler, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3015/2902512297_15f91df26a.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="First day of school (pre)" /></a><br /><br />We got dressed and arrived way early for school, just like all the other kids. But when the time came to go inside the classroom and find her name on the board, she got very nervous. I carried her into class and found her name for her, and then we played with a puzzle for quite some time before I finally left. Thankfully, a lot of the other parents were lingering as well, which made me feel better.<br /><br />We both went in to pick Margot up two hours later. She was happy then, completely over her nervousness. She had the art she made that day (stamps) and told us that she forgot everything they did that day, except for stamps.<br /><br />She's continued to be nervous every day before class, though it's getting better. She goes to the kids room happily at the gym and Ikea, but for some reason there's a problem with preschool. I think maybe it's because it's school, which is such a major thing in a kid's life. I've asked her, but she dodges the question, which she's very good at. A certain vice-presidential candidate could learn a thing or two from her.<br /><br />But I think the weirdest thing about preschool is that for about an hour and half, I have nothing to do. It's a little too long to sit in the lobby of the the community center with the dozing seniors but too short to go home and take a nap. So I've been doing stuff like going home and baking something or going to the doctor. I'm sure I get a routine down soon.<br /><br />So that's pretty much preschool. The only unknown left there what to take when it's our day for snacks. It has to be prepackaged, which is kind of lame. But there are no allergies in the class, which is handy. Any suggestions?Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00600424716604352520noreply@blogger.com3