Merry Christmas (very late) from the Daniels Family
and Happy New Year
and Happy New Year
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
First Playable Snow
Last week we got about 4 inches of snow. Which in turn closed schools, closed businesses, but more importantly made Matt work from home. Around lunchtime Grace and I convinced Matt that it would be a good thing to take a break from work and play in the snow.
We all got bundled up.
Matt and I threw snowballs at each other. Grace was handed a snowball but was not impressed.
However, she did like being held as we went for a walk on the snowy streets of our neighborhood.
Making snow angels was a new and strange experience. Not her favorite event of the day.
This was not Grace's first snow. But, during the other snows she was only about 2 months old. So this is the first one where she could get out, touch, play, and really experience the snow. Her first playable snow.
We all got bundled up.
Matt and I threw snowballs at each other. Grace was handed a snowball but was not impressed.
However, she did like being held as we went for a walk on the snowy streets of our neighborhood.
Making snow angels was a new and strange experience. Not her favorite event of the day.
This was not Grace's first snow. But, during the other snows she was only about 2 months old. So this is the first one where she could get out, touch, play, and really experience the snow. Her first playable snow.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
To Texas We Go: Part 4
And now the conclusion...
After the service we arrived back at the hotel to find out that the long anticipated package had arrived. Dad had overnighted us passports and Matt's international driver's license. When looking at the passports we discovered that Matt's most recent one was three months expired. Ugh...no driver's license, and now an expired passport. How in the world are we going to get back to Virginia? On our good looks and charm? At this moment we did not want to worry about that so we got into some more comfortable clothes and went out to eat with the family.
Matt's aunt, uncle, and cousins also got a room at the hotel. So after dinner we all went to their much larger and adjoined rooms, to play games/watch sports/talk. It was very nice to relax and begin to get to know these people who are now family to me.
The next morning we woke bright and early and were ready to head back to the airport. We got our tickets, checked our bags, then off to the security checkpoint (the part we have been dreading for two days now). All three of us stood by the security officer and told him our story. The license was lost...yes we did report it to the airlines... no we do not have any other id...yeah, we do have a check card in his name...here is an expired passport (smiling hopefully)...and here is an international drivers license, yes it is expired but it DOES have his picture in it...no, we do not have his social security card...please, please, please, we just want to go home. After pleading from all three of us and showing them everything that we could find that had Matt's name on it, they let us through with the warning of DON'T LOSE ANYTHING ELSE.
The flights were uneventful. Once again Grace slept from before take-off to after landing.
I have never had such a wonderful stress-free flight before.
Home has never felt so good.
*Two weeks later we received a letter. Inside was Matt's driver's license. It was mailed by an airport security officer located in Florida. I am guessing that it desired to go on vacation to a nice sunny spot...alone!*
After the service we arrived back at the hotel to find out that the long anticipated package had arrived. Dad had overnighted us passports and Matt's international driver's license. When looking at the passports we discovered that Matt's most recent one was three months expired. Ugh...no driver's license, and now an expired passport. How in the world are we going to get back to Virginia? On our good looks and charm? At this moment we did not want to worry about that so we got into some more comfortable clothes and went out to eat with the family.
Matt's aunt, uncle, and cousins also got a room at the hotel. So after dinner we all went to their much larger and adjoined rooms, to play games/watch sports/talk. It was very nice to relax and begin to get to know these people who are now family to me.
The next morning we woke bright and early and were ready to head back to the airport. We got our tickets, checked our bags, then off to the security checkpoint (the part we have been dreading for two days now). All three of us stood by the security officer and told him our story. The license was lost...yes we did report it to the airlines... no we do not have any other id...yeah, we do have a check card in his name...here is an expired passport (smiling hopefully)...and here is an international drivers license, yes it is expired but it DOES have his picture in it...no, we do not have his social security card...please, please, please, we just want to go home. After pleading from all three of us and showing them everything that we could find that had Matt's name on it, they let us through with the warning of DON'T LOSE ANYTHING ELSE.
The flights were uneventful. Once again Grace slept from before take-off to after landing.
I have never had such a wonderful stress-free flight before.
Home has never felt so good.
*Two weeks later we received a letter. Inside was Matt's driver's license. It was mailed by an airport security officer located in Florida. I am guessing that it desired to go on vacation to a nice sunny spot...alone!*
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
To Texas We Go: Part 3
Saturday we spent time with Steve and Sue (who arrived very late the night before - 1:00 am maybe? Who knows, I was asleep). Then had lunch out with the whole family (all of Matt's aunts, uncles, and cousins). The lunch was long on talk, and short on refills. We all went back to the hotel to change for the service, then we were headed to the church. Yes, the morning seemed to go by that quickly.
When we arrived at the church, this was the image that welcomed us as we walked in. Richard (Dick) Daniels...this one image shows quite a bit of his career history. He was a former cook in the marines, and he spent many years working for the Boy Scouts of America (that is symbolized by the ribbon with the silver beaver on it. It is quite an honor to receive that award).
As I mentioned in the first post about our trip to Texas, this man was one who never knew a stranger. He would befriend and help anyone that was in his ability. That was seen in his memorial service. As expected hymns were sung, scripture read, and tears shed. One of the most touching parts of the service was when two marines marched in, held out the American flag, had taps played, and respectfully folded it - presenting it to Steve.
Now about my comment of him being friends with everyone, there were four pastors present, and involved in the service. That alone is impressive, but even more so is the fact that each of them had personal memories and stories to share about Richard Daniels. They were not going by a script, they were not just following lines that are said at each service. No, each of them had special encounters or stories that they experienced personally with him.
Then I looked around the church and I realized that all in attendance are probably not even a handful of individuals compared to all of the lives that he has touched throughout his lifetime. *This realization made me realize that I need to be more like him and maybe be more outgoing and keep up with relationships a little better.* But back to the story...
The church in Houston does not have much land around it. I do not know if that is the reason for it or not, but that is my assumption. The church built what is called a columbarium. Right outside the church is a little water garden with a wall to respectfully remember those whose urns are placed within.
It is a very beautiful and peaceful location. Matt, Sue, Katie, and I all sat out there at one time or another during the reception.
I am so glad that I got to know you, even if it was for a short time. I am so happy that your stories, your ideas, and even you will live on through your children and your grandchildren who loved you so much.
When we arrived at the church, this was the image that welcomed us as we walked in. Richard (Dick) Daniels...this one image shows quite a bit of his career history. He was a former cook in the marines, and he spent many years working for the Boy Scouts of America (that is symbolized by the ribbon with the silver beaver on it. It is quite an honor to receive that award).
As I mentioned in the first post about our trip to Texas, this man was one who never knew a stranger. He would befriend and help anyone that was in his ability. That was seen in his memorial service. As expected hymns were sung, scripture read, and tears shed. One of the most touching parts of the service was when two marines marched in, held out the American flag, had taps played, and respectfully folded it - presenting it to Steve.Now about my comment of him being friends with everyone, there were four pastors present, and involved in the service. That alone is impressive, but even more so is the fact that each of them had personal memories and stories to share about Richard Daniels. They were not going by a script, they were not just following lines that are said at each service. No, each of them had special encounters or stories that they experienced personally with him.
Then I looked around the church and I realized that all in attendance are probably not even a handful of individuals compared to all of the lives that he has touched throughout his lifetime. *This realization made me realize that I need to be more like him and maybe be more outgoing and keep up with relationships a little better.* But back to the story...
The church in Houston does not have much land around it. I do not know if that is the reason for it or not, but that is my assumption. The church built what is called a columbarium. Right outside the church is a little water garden with a wall to respectfully remember those whose urns are placed within.
It is a very beautiful and peaceful location. Matt, Sue, Katie, and I all sat out there at one time or another during the reception.
I am so glad that I got to know you, even if it was for a short time. I am so happy that your stories, your ideas, and even you will live on through your children and your grandchildren who loved you so much.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
To Texas We Go: Part 2
Soon after we landed I called my dad again to see if he got my frantic message. I finally got a hold of him and asked him where he was, his response was "I am in your house, going up the stairs...what do you want me to do." Oh, what a sigh of relief that was. I asked him to get all the passports that he could find, and anything else that looked official and send it overnight to the address of our hotel. That was all we could do for the moment, so we might as well enjoy our time in Texas now that people in Virginia were working to get us back.
We got to the hotel and checked it just in time to get a message from Chris and Katie that they were at the airport waiting to be picked up. So, once again Matt, Grace, and I piled into the mini-van that we rented and went to pick up Chris, Katie, and Ellie.
We got to the hotel and checked it just in time to get a message from Chris and Katie that they were at the airport waiting to be picked up. So, once again Matt, Grace, and I piled into the mini-van that we rented and went to pick up Chris, Katie, and Ellie.
At the airport we walked into the baggage claim to quickly be welcomed by Matt's brother (Chris) and his family. It has been close to 2 years since we saw them last, and during that time we both had children (little girls who are five weeks apart in age). So the entertainment at the airport (and actually most of the weekend) was watching Grace and Ellie interact (aka: pat the other person, pull their clothes, pull their hair, push them down, steal their toys, try to "hold" hands, etc)
The cousins meet for the first time.
On Friday we mainly just spent time with Chris, Katie and Ellie and relaxed. Here are just a few shots of what happened.
Starting early into a life of crime
Just can't figure out this safe...what IS the code?
Oh no, they caught us!
We were framed!
Just like dogs, sometimes high chairs just need to go for a walk too.
The girls cuddling up with Uncle Chris.
Holding hands while out to eat with the family.
Almost all of the great-grandchildren of Richard Daniels (Matt's grandfather) playing in one room.
And finally, who can leave out one of the biggest highlights of the weekend? Learning how to play with the iPhone.
End of part 2
Monday, December 13, 2010
Wagon Rides
For the past two years Matt and I have enjoyed participating in many of the charity events that GE offers during the Christmas season. We usually try to be part of Christmas wagons and also food boxes. To read about what these events are, or our experiences with them 2008 is here and 2009 is here.
This year we did not get to participate in the food boxes, my side of the family was holding their Christmas over that same weekend. But we did get to go to Christmas wagons.
I did not get much assembling done. In fact I got NONE done. This is because I was chasing around a little girl who suddenly discovered that she LOVES wagon rides!
There was another 1 year old at the wagons event. She and Grace were walking up and down the vast expanse of the old Kroger that this was being held at. While toddling around a lady came by with a finished wagon and asked if we wanted a ride. So both of the girls got placed in the wagon and off they went. Grace's face just lit up. She was squealing and laughing the whole way.
Once we got to the location where the finished wagons were supposed to be, she did not want to leave. She tried to either stay in the wagon or get in a different wagon for another ride. So I realized that we needed to begin toddling and wandering between all of the tables where the wagons were being assembled and once one was finished there was no doubt that Grace would be near by to pat the wagon, hold on to it, and look up at the adult who was holding the handle as if to say "please, give me a ride" (add in adorable puppy dog eyes).
She rode in many, many, many wagons that night. She pushed wagons, and walked all around.
I think that we might eventually need to get her a wagon :)
This year we did not get to participate in the food boxes, my side of the family was holding their Christmas over that same weekend. But we did get to go to Christmas wagons.
I did not get much assembling done. In fact I got NONE done. This is because I was chasing around a little girl who suddenly discovered that she LOVES wagon rides!
There was another 1 year old at the wagons event. She and Grace were walking up and down the vast expanse of the old Kroger that this was being held at. While toddling around a lady came by with a finished wagon and asked if we wanted a ride. So both of the girls got placed in the wagon and off they went. Grace's face just lit up. She was squealing and laughing the whole way.
Once we got to the location where the finished wagons were supposed to be, she did not want to leave. She tried to either stay in the wagon or get in a different wagon for another ride. So I realized that we needed to begin toddling and wandering between all of the tables where the wagons were being assembled and once one was finished there was no doubt that Grace would be near by to pat the wagon, hold on to it, and look up at the adult who was holding the handle as if to say "please, give me a ride" (add in adorable puppy dog eyes).
She rode in many, many, many wagons that night. She pushed wagons, and walked all around.
I think that we might eventually need to get her a wagon :)
Sunday, December 12, 2010
To Texas We Go
It is a sad fact that sometimes family gatherings are held due to loss in the family.
Last January Matt's grandmother passed away. He made a solo trip to Texas for the memorial service. Grace (who was about 4 weeks old at the time) and I stayed at home. When Matt arrived after the weekend with the family we got to see pictures, and hear stories, but it is just not the same. I wish I could have been there for Matt during that time. I wish that I could have met that side of the family.
This past November, once again, we received the sad news that there is yet another loss in Matt's family. His grandfather passed away on Veteran's Day. I only met his grandfather twice, and talked to him on the phone a handful of times, but I felt like I knew him still. This was a man who never met a stranger. Everyone was a friend and he was open and as helpful to everyone (as possible) in return.
When this news came, I knew that there was no question....we were all going to Texas.
I started to ask traveling advice from all of my friends who have traveled with young ones. I began to stock up on travel snacks, formula, oatmeal, anything that I could think of to feed Grace on the run, or something that just needed water added (that we would be getting from the flight attendants) in order to make a drink or meal for her. Yes, I began to stress out. I had so many lists going of what I needed to buy, what I needed to pack, what I needed to lay out to use, what needed to go in this bag, what needed to go in that bag, etc. Looking back, it was actually very humorous.
When plans were made, it was discovered that we had a week to get plane tickets, car and hotel reservations, and pack. Once again...yes, I began to stress out! One thing that helped was that Matt has a cousin in that location who has a little one. So she let us borrow a high chair, playpen, and a stroller (less stuff for us to pack/check/worry about)
At 3:00 am on Friday, November 19th, Matt and I had the unfortunate task of waking up Grace (usually it is the other way around). A quick breakfast, some very last minute packing, and we were out the door for a 6:00 am flight out of Roanoke. We had two legs to this trip. We went from Roanoke to Atlanta and then from Atlanta to Houston.
Roanoke to Atlanta:
We got through security easily enough, and got settled on our flight. I could see the looks of the other passengers all thinking "Oh no! There is a baby on this flight..." Grace was wonderful though. She fell asleep before we took off and stayed asleep for over half of her first flight. When she finally woke up I asked the flight attendant for some hot water and made her some oatmeal for breakfast. She was contently eating while we landed.
At the Atlanta airport Matt and I were about to sit down to enjoy our own breakfast while we reorganized everything (snacks, toys, tickets, etc.). While moving everything around we realized that Matt had somehow misplaced his Virginia driver's license. We dumped out our carry-on luggage, all of our pockets on our coats, the stroller, the car seat, and anything else that we had with us...NO LICENSE. Ok, no big problem...I still have my license. I can do all of the driving, we do not have to go through another security checkpoint before we get to Houston. But, they would probably not allow Matt to get back on the plane to return to Roanoke if he has no ID....BIG PROBLEM! We called the airline and reported his license lost. Then I got a grand idea, call my family in Harrisonburg. I had five minutes before our next plane took off to call my father and leave a frantic message. I told him of our problem and asked him to go to our house, get Matt's passport. I hung up hoping that my message was clear and that he would be able to help in time.
Atlanta to Houston:
Grace slept the whole time from before take off to after we landed. I had to wake her up to get her off of the plane. We picked up the car with no problem (used my license to be able to get the car...and realized that I - yes I - would have to drive the horrible Houston roads. Ok, Houston roads are not all that bad, but I am used to driving on the same roads that horse and buggies drive on...that is my speed of driving). And off to the hotel.
End of part 1.
Last January Matt's grandmother passed away. He made a solo trip to Texas for the memorial service. Grace (who was about 4 weeks old at the time) and I stayed at home. When Matt arrived after the weekend with the family we got to see pictures, and hear stories, but it is just not the same. I wish I could have been there for Matt during that time. I wish that I could have met that side of the family.
This past November, once again, we received the sad news that there is yet another loss in Matt's family. His grandfather passed away on Veteran's Day. I only met his grandfather twice, and talked to him on the phone a handful of times, but I felt like I knew him still. This was a man who never met a stranger. Everyone was a friend and he was open and as helpful to everyone (as possible) in return.
When this news came, I knew that there was no question....we were all going to Texas.
I started to ask traveling advice from all of my friends who have traveled with young ones. I began to stock up on travel snacks, formula, oatmeal, anything that I could think of to feed Grace on the run, or something that just needed water added (that we would be getting from the flight attendants) in order to make a drink or meal for her. Yes, I began to stress out. I had so many lists going of what I needed to buy, what I needed to pack, what I needed to lay out to use, what needed to go in this bag, what needed to go in that bag, etc. Looking back, it was actually very humorous.
When plans were made, it was discovered that we had a week to get plane tickets, car and hotel reservations, and pack. Once again...yes, I began to stress out! One thing that helped was that Matt has a cousin in that location who has a little one. So she let us borrow a high chair, playpen, and a stroller (less stuff for us to pack/check/worry about)
At 3:00 am on Friday, November 19th, Matt and I had the unfortunate task of waking up Grace (usually it is the other way around). A quick breakfast, some very last minute packing, and we were out the door for a 6:00 am flight out of Roanoke. We had two legs to this trip. We went from Roanoke to Atlanta and then from Atlanta to Houston.
Roanoke to Atlanta:
We got through security easily enough, and got settled on our flight. I could see the looks of the other passengers all thinking "Oh no! There is a baby on this flight..." Grace was wonderful though. She fell asleep before we took off and stayed asleep for over half of her first flight. When she finally woke up I asked the flight attendant for some hot water and made her some oatmeal for breakfast. She was contently eating while we landed.
At the Atlanta airport Matt and I were about to sit down to enjoy our own breakfast while we reorganized everything (snacks, toys, tickets, etc.). While moving everything around we realized that Matt had somehow misplaced his Virginia driver's license. We dumped out our carry-on luggage, all of our pockets on our coats, the stroller, the car seat, and anything else that we had with us...NO LICENSE. Ok, no big problem...I still have my license. I can do all of the driving, we do not have to go through another security checkpoint before we get to Houston. But, they would probably not allow Matt to get back on the plane to return to Roanoke if he has no ID....BIG PROBLEM! We called the airline and reported his license lost. Then I got a grand idea, call my family in Harrisonburg. I had five minutes before our next plane took off to call my father and leave a frantic message. I told him of our problem and asked him to go to our house, get Matt's passport. I hung up hoping that my message was clear and that he would be able to help in time.
Atlanta to Houston:
Grace slept the whole time from before take off to after we landed. I had to wake her up to get her off of the plane. We picked up the car with no problem (used my license to be able to get the car...and realized that I - yes I - would have to drive the horrible Houston roads. Ok, Houston roads are not all that bad, but I am used to driving on the same roads that horse and buggies drive on...that is my speed of driving). And off to the hotel.
End of part 1.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Change To My Blog
I hate having to do that word verification step to be able to sign into something. This is why I am apologizing already.
I am sorry that I am starting to make anyone who comments to my blog have to do that.
I am not trying to prevent you from commenting. I hope that you continue to comment, and comment often. I am trying to prevent the two or three spam comments that I am getting daily to my blog.
If it helps prevent the wave of spam that I have been getting, I will continue to have my commenters sign in with those weird words. However, if I see no change... I will go back to the way it used to be.
Thank you for your patience.
I am sorry that I am starting to make anyone who comments to my blog have to do that.
I am not trying to prevent you from commenting. I hope that you continue to comment, and comment often. I am trying to prevent the two or three spam comments that I am getting daily to my blog.
If it helps prevent the wave of spam that I have been getting, I will continue to have my commenters sign in with those weird words. However, if I see no change... I will go back to the way it used to be.
Thank you for your patience.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
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