Thoughts From a Frazzled Mind

Olsen Family Party Kim and I were in charge of the annual Olsen Christmas Party this year.  I was knee-deep in finishing up my homework for the semester, so I let Shandra take my place in the planning phase of the party.  It was decided to keep things simple for everyone involved, but it still turned out great!  They asked everyone to come wearing their favorite headgear, and pretty much everyone complied.  Barb definitely was the winner with her huge curls made from pool noodles.  Even Grandma joined in the fun with a huge ribbon that had lights that blinked. We ordered a bunch of simple craft products from Oriental Trading for the kids to do - however, I believe there were more adults than kids at the crafting table!  We had a soup and salad bar with lots of yummy soups and chilis.  Strangely enough, my corn chowder disappeared first.  The dessert table was covered in some of my very favorite treats, Dennileigh made Carmel Rice Krispie trea...

Kim, Kalel and I were invited to Shandra's big ultrasound.  It was SO fun to see that cute little critter wriggling around!  We were all extremely happy to hear that all is well with the baby, except Kalel - he kept asking over and over and over "Is it a girl? Am I going to have a sister?" When the ultrasound tech final told us all that it was a girl Kalel literally jumped up, pumped his fist, and cried, "YES!"  I'm thinking that he is just a little excited about having a sister.  I have to agree since we now have two grandsons a little girl would be fun. Here is Shandra's post on Facebook: We are all pretty excited! Here are some random pictures of dad.  He claims he doesn't like Robin's dog, Koko, but I'm pretty sure that he secretly does.   Koko loves him and is always right on top of him.  Apparently Ashley's terrier, Barley, likes dad too.  Dad's dementia has been getting really bad and he has been very uns...

My aunt Leone is truly amazing!  She just celebrated her 90th birthday but she still looks and acts if she is much, much younger!   Kim and I took dad down to her birthday celebration and open house.  We had a great time celebrating with her and visiting with the family - some of which we haven't seen for a very long time. The family had placed a timeline of her life all along one wall.  She and Uncle Verle have lived incredible lives and accomplished so much.  They have a wonderful family and are about the kindest people I have ever met. Leone and Verle are both big teases!  This pose with Leone rubbing Verle's head is very typical. Dad had a marvelous time visiting with his brother.  I can't believe how much they look alike, almost like twins, even though they are several years apart in age.  Verle's health is declining, but he still has his magnificent, sarcastic humor that keeps us on our toes.