Day #212 - Called for duty...

I've been summoned for jury duty but probably won't serve this time. The maximum I can get from my portable O2 equipment is about 6 hours and not knowing how long I'd have to be there every day would make it impossible for me. I just wouldn't be able to lug extras around the courthouse. So, I'm waiting on a letter from my doctor that will excuse me. Too bad, I enjoyed serving before.

Day #211 - Spear Builders

After a particularly windy thunderstorm, there were plenty of broken branches on the ground. Michael found one he deemed spear-worthy and Lew helped him make one. He plans on taking it back home with him... I'm sure my son and daughter-in-law will just looooove me!

Day #210 - Blimps and other things...

Christopher got this shot of the Goodyear blimp from our backyard. I later found out it was flying in our area to fulfill a ride-in-a blimp contest prize. Later on we went out for dinner and took in a late movie the boys wanted to see.

Day #209 - Painting Pals

Wanting to help, Christopher donned some of Lew's old clothes and grabbed a paintbrush. We chose Benjamin Moore's Swiss Coffee - a slightly creamy off white. It's just a tad different from what we had, softer and not quite as bright. It's looking good!

Day #208 - Friday night movie...

The boys opted for some horror combination of Friday the 13th/Nightmare on Elm Street but I was perfectly satisfied with this one. Love Forest Whitaker and his Oscar-winning performance in his portrayal of sick puppy Amin.

Day #207 - Sleeping beastie...

I don't see how on earth it can be comfortable, but this has become a favorite snoozing spot/position for my beastie boy Buster. Goofy animal!

Day #206 - Going without...

While the family room is being worked on, the boys have been reduced to watching plain ol' dusty cable TV on their bedroom set, sans HBO or the recorded program feature. Life is soooo difficult!! *sigh* ;)

Day #205 - He worked hard for the money...

Christopher made a deal with Lew to wash the van for some spending cash. Today was the day for the job and he did it well and impressively.
Of his own volition, he even took a toothbrush to the wheel rims ! What a kid!

Day #204 - *Sniffle*

This poor wilted New Guinea impatiens pretty much croaked while we were gone - guess it wasn't happy without its daily shower. Ah well, at least the others survived.

Day #200 through Day #203 - A NY/NJ Weekend

Day #200 - Getting ready

suitcases pulled out, dust and all, before packing...

~ ~ ~

Day #201 - Into New York City

The boys had never been to NY, so we surprised them with a quick trip into the city after we arrived in NJ Friday evening for a quick look-see. Unknown to them, we would be going back the next day for some real sightseeing that would include ...

~ ~ ~

Day #202 - Statue of Liberty

Ellis Island as seen from the ferry on the way to Liberty Island.

The Lady herself. Not only was it a first for the boys, but for Lew and I too. I'd only seen her from afar aboard a ferry crossing the river before this trip.

Taking pictures

Viewing the Manhattan skyline from Liberty Island

Christopher and Michael with NYC behind them

New York City from Liberty Island

Brooklyn Bridge from Liberty Island

The original flame held aloft by the Lady before renovations in 1984 replaced it with the gilded one she now holds
A replica of the Lady's face in the museum, it was made using the same process as used on the statue. I don't know the kid picking her nose!! :D

The Statue of Liberty in all her glory...

...truly an awesome and impressive sight

After spending most of the day on Liberty Island, we went back into the city for a closer look at

The Empire State Building

The United Nations

and a lot of other buildings. All in all, it was a successful surprise and we had a great time. As you can see, the weather was spectacular too!

~ ~ ~

Day #203 - Winston's 1st Birthday

Adorable and yummy birthday cake

Appropriately enough, Winston's first ever taste of cake was his birthday cake - he liked it!

Off for a few days...

We're off to NJ for the weekend to help celebrate baby Winston's first birthday. Will be back next week... with pics, of course. Have a great weekend all!! :)

Day #199 - UNO!

Playing a quick hand or two of UNO while waiting for dinner to finish cooking.

Day #198 - Let the transformation begin...

The next time you see this wall, it'll be totally different. After some 30-plus years, I finally won't have to look at that oh-so-70's painted pine wood trim anymore! Construction begins tomorrow on renovating the family room. Yay!!
We're excited!

Day #197 - ...and he cooks too!!

Not only is he a fun kid, but he's comfortable in the kitchen. Christopher wanted to make Ritzy chicken, so I let him have at it while I gave directions. He done good too, it was delicious! He now informs me he's for hire. LOL! :D