Holiday Kickoff
To Ava's dismay, we took the girls for photos today. Aliza has never had photos taken so the focus was on her, especially with her sister's attitude towards the situation and day. As you can see, Aliza also had her moments.  I will reconsider pictures next holiday season!  Here's a preview of the frantic photo shoot...

Attitudes of Gratitude
The season of giving certainly is around the corner. Guilty of giving the faithful I-270/Quebec bum tissue packs this past week and I’ll admit I’m not big on supporting corner bums; they probably make way more cash than I. He has occupied the same corner for the past 3 years Ava and I have taken the trip to Anchor Center for the great ‘Thanksgiving Feast’ so why not spice up the last one a bit? I’m also thankful Tom, the turkey, was merely saved by chicken nuggets. Saving turkey’s that talk is good for the preschooler soul!Speaking of souls and in celebration of “Attitudes of Gratitude” I am planning to attend a book signing for my girlfriend, Heather, to honor h

My Luggage
In my mind, sometime during my childhood, appeared a nice plaid bag. It was an empty bag that seemed large and hollow through the eyes of such a young, innocent, naive child. The instructions accompanying this piece of luggage simply stated, you will need this on your journey through life; fill, empty and refill wisely. I have had an overwhelming response to my last blog. I feel like I need to explain that sometimes my luggage needs emptied, at least a layer or two. Coincidently, most folks around me have their own bags, filled to the brim. With their own rules too; I’ve learned they don’t always welcome my clutter over flowing or mingling with theirs. They also don’t alwa

Hijacked…
My week has been inundated with the Department of Health and Human Services. In general these are not people that make for pleasant conversation topics. It started like this…Ring, Ring, Ring.“Hello”I need to speak to a parent of Ava Jaksha, please.“Speaking”What is your name?“I’m Amanda, her mother.”I’m calling to speak with you about Ava’s eligibility for the HOSPICE WAIVER.“What waiver?”Hospice, it is designed for children whom are not expected to live to adulthood.“Is that appropriate? Do you know something I don’t?”Why don’t

SpOokY FuN!
It's my favorite holiday and was the best to date since I've had children.  We kicked it off by Trick or Treating in Old Town, Ft Collins, yesterday with mom, my friend Heather and the girls' friend Samantha.  We finished the morning off with a nice lunch at Rasta Pasta over a beer.