The Starman Family

Open Letter to Saylor's Future BFF

2010-09-10T13:50:00.000-06:00

Your best friend was born yesterday. Not sure if you still say BFF, but these days its kind of the thing. I don't even know if you are born yet. You may be five years old already. Trust me. It could happen. But Saylor came into this world looking like a combination of her big brothers, her daddy and her pretty mommy, too. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to meet her and won't for a couple of months but I am still going to tell you a little bit about her. Presumptuous of me, you say? Why, yes. Yes it is. Here goes...

She likes to go boating and camping and be outside. She probably likes to fish and hunt a little too. She has an incredible sense for design- color, texture. The girl has got some serious style. And she is REALLY good at shopping, especially when it comes to getting a good deal. Not that she is all girly-girl. She has been steamrolled and knows what a wedgie is. Don't hit her. She knows how to hit back. A great present for her would be lip gloss or a new purse. She likes ketchup with her ketchup and hates snakes. Most of all she is fun to be around and just a generally good person.

Ok to be honest I have no idea what Saylor will like to do or eat or wear. But I do know that she has completed a family and given me a wonderful reason to smile.

I would venture to guess that the reason she is your best friend is because she is who she is.

And she learned that from her mom.

Who is my best friend.

P.S. If she ever moves away, don't worry. It will be just fine.

Welcome to the world Saylor Winn!

Big Day

2010-08-18T10:47:00.001-06:00

When did this...

become this...

Today is Rowan's first day of Kindergarten. A milestone... a huge milestone. She was so excited and ready and so was I. I cried... she didn't. It was quite comical, I've never seen so many moms wearing large sunglasses. At least it was sunny so we had an excuse.

There is one image I haven't been able to get out of my mind as I have been preparing for this day. And that is the first moment I laid eyes on her when she was born. I will never forget how I felt... how thankful I was that she was here, how I loved her more than anything, how ecstatic I was that she my daughter. I was NOT thinking about today- packing her lunch, doing her hair, walking her to her class, kissing her goodbye and seeing her dissappear into a pack of 5 and 6 year olds. But I still feel the same- I am so thankful that she is a part of our family. I love her more than anything (tied with her daddy and sissy). And I am so unbelieveably ecstatic that this little, although getting bigger everyday, girl is my daughter.

Look out world- Here comes Rowan!

2010-04-13T21:06:00.000-06:00

What's your first best memory?

Tonight I put Tressin on the kitchen counter while I made dinner. She had been begging, she knew she would love it, and she did. I saw her feet kicking against the cupboard beneath and I was in my first best memory. I lived for a short time in my young young life in Guadalajara, Mexico. Not New Mexico. And not for long. I was really little- maybe 2-4 yrs. so it is questionable what is really "remembered" at such a young age. But I remember sitting on a outdoor bar/counter eating delicious mexican food on a hot, sunny day. With my dad. Kicking my feet against the wood beneath. I remember dogs. And being warm and happy and not really knowing anything else. I really do remember that. And how pure and pleasantly simple everything was.

Before slow computers and mortgage payments and abcesses and c-sections and comfort care...

Before high fructrose corn syrup and mean girls and fluoride treatments and billable time...

I know its been awhile but my computer sucks... I mean, needs some attention. That unfortunately I dont have time for. Or fortunately.

I can run 3.5 miles.

There are Angels among us...

2010-01-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

I just took a nice hot shower. And I felt pretty damn lucky. No, we didn't just get a new water heater, I didn't get locked out in the cold, nothing like that. See Starman's cousin Makalia is in Haiti. She left last Thursday on less than 12 hours notice to help in whatever way she can. She works in the medical field, apologetically I don't know exactly what she does. I do know that she was allowed to take very few belongings; scrubs, underwear and one pair of shoes. The 12 person plane she flew there in was packed full of medical supplies so personal belongings had to be kept to a bare minimum to allow the plane to fly safely.

I bet she would LOVE a nice hot shower about now. And probably a blue yummy too.

Thanks Makalia. Your infectious smile will light up their darkness.

God Bless You.

Just another Sunday night...

2010-01-17T16:45:00.000-07:00

Sunday evening is swiftly approaching... probably one of my favorite times of the week. I finish up the laundry and we eat a good dinner and look forward to what the week ahead will bring us. Tonight signals the beginning of award show season with the Golden Globes. Hey, I watch a lot of football. And I don't mind it that much. But I love an award show.The glitz, the glamour, the mandatory political rants and buzzed up speeches. Ooh it's mind numbing and relaxing. Can't wait.

The basement is getting painted tomorrow. So excited about that. We have priced carpet and hope that Uncle Sam gives us enough of our money back that we will have a livable basement by the end of February. Here's before paint. I will post an after, well, after.

So yah, we are close to a finished basement and I got an iPhone from my incredible work. The same week that so many thousands of people have lost their lives and many more struggle to survive in Haiti. I am spoiled and certainly not worthy. The images have been sobering and I know have made me shudder with appreciation. Give until it hurts. We have to. It is our job.

Training update: I have been consistently working out and running. My goal is to be able to run 2 miles without stopping by Feb 1. Didn't make my first week of swimming as Rowan got strep throat, AGAIN, so she couldn't go to her first gymnastics class. (I am planning on swimming while she is in class.) I feel good. My trepidation has turned into an excited drive to succeed. I'm sure it will make a reappearance at some point along the way but I'll just turn up the Kanye and run right over it. :)

Toodles for now... off to watch for the dreaded wardrobe malfunction!

Baby steps...

2010-01-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

I ran 1 mile without stopping today. Cool.

Holy crap I have a long way to go.

Adios 2009... Hola 2010

2009-12-31T16:30:00.000-07:00

It's the last day of the year and part of me feels rather indifferent about the whole thing. There will be very little that changes between my day today and my day tomorrow although they will be in two distinct years. Books, babies, fights, time-outs, laughs and hugs are destined to occur. And for that I am greatful...

It has been a nice and quick holiday season for us... just the way I like 'em.

Tressy's Sideways Glance

Rowan got a hold of the camera and took these... she is quite the picture taker. Especially of pictures of herself. Future narcissist?

Uncle Bubba and the cousins minus Mati and Nat... He will be a great babysitter for all of them when the rest of us go out on the town at the reunion in July! Thanks Larry! :)

I am excited to have Derrick and Crystal and the kids up for NYE tonight. I was planning on going to bed like I have the last few years. Definitely a party pooper usually. But a couple things have happened that have changed this New Year's Eve for me a little. First, Rowan is kinda into it! There is nothing like the innocent excitement of a cutie patootie to get you in the mood. Then there is something my mom reminded me of today. My Grandma Moody loved New Years! I totally remember her out there, in the back yard on West Street in Fort Morgan, with her noisemakers and hootin and hollerin. Even when she had a hard time walking and breathing, she still did it. She probably figured she may as well... might as well celebrate that you have made it to see another one. In deference to Beverly, I will have my noismakers going. Settlers Drive, consider yourself warned.

And finally... drastic means call for drastic measures. And things have become drastic in my battle to live a healthy lifestyle and promote that lifestyle to my girls--basically I am losing it. So right here, on this very blog, I am announcing that the time has come...

On June 20, 2010, I will be swimming a half mile in the Boulder Resevoir, biking 17.2 miles through the roads surrounding Boulder and then running 3.1 miles! My emotions at this point keep waffling between excitement and terror, but I am committed to do one thing... FINISH!

I will be documenting my journey on this blog along with continuing to update on the happenings around the homefront... Blog on baby!

2010...Watch out for The Starman's!

Buen Ano!

A Real Fairy Tale

2009-12-02T05:57:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a girl. Her mother and father weren't married anymore, not due to a lack of love for her. One day, on top of a beautiful mesa, the girl's father married a lady. The lady wore makeup and curled her hair and had a soft voice and pretty hands and the girl thought she was amazing. The lady had a baby boy and together, her and the girl's father would have another boy and another little girl. The girl spent many days and many nights with the lady. She learned to bake cookies, make biscuits, polish silver ware, change a diaper, soothe a baby, make someone feel special. The lady also taught the girl how to be a dedicated worker and a loving wife.

And a mom.

Then the lady got sick. And she taught the girl how to be strong and tough and mad. And to believe in heaven. On a cold winter day the lady died. And the girl was strong and tough and mad. And sad.

The girl is a lady now. She thinks of this lady a lot. When she bakes cookies and soothes a baby. When she thinks about heaven. She still thinks she is amazing.

The Good Life

2009-12-01T21:59:00.001-07:00

Five weeks since my last post? Aww schnikees... Auntie Hat has probably given up on me.

Of course a lot has happened.

Let's see... we were able to take our week long trip to Nebraska after all. It was just a couple weeks delayed. It worked out way different and way better than planned.

We headed up to NW NE on Saturday morning. Daddy was saved from a speeding ticket because smart mom (she is a CU grad, you know) dressed the girls in their Husker gear since it was game day. What state trooper can give a ticket to this? Ok, I guess it depends on what state you are in.

We just love it up there. Scott built his Dad and Bonnie a fence to keep their little dogs safe and the girls and I spent lots of time going on "adventures" around Brookey Bottom.

Lucky checking out the digs without his leash!

The girls checking out the Missouri River

Rowan on the obligatory golf cart ride (well there wasn't just one!)

Avery loves it there too!

Grandpa Starman, the girls and Lucky

I love this picture of them. Rowan is taking it.

Then it was time to say goodbye to the Bottom and we headed to Fremont to meet the Winn's minus Landon (he was in school) for lunch. It was a quick visit and most of the time was spent pigging out at the best buffet in all the land at Godfather's, hence no pics.

We got to Omaha on Tuesday and I was scheduled to fly back to Denver on Wednesday morning for lots of important work stuff. Then we started hearing about the snow. Short story... I didn't go home. Heeheehee.

So the girls had fun with their cousins, visited Great Grandma with their dad, I went to boot camp with the sisters, we went to Coco Keys (awesome indoor water park right off I-80 if you are ever in the neighborhood), and discovered our future business... a classy bar with virtual golf.

Grandma Carol giving Tress "SQUEEZES"

Rowan lovin her some Aunt Terri

Rowan, Tressin, Riley, Bailee and Austin

I tried uploading some hilarious vids but no luck. I'll get them on Facebook so check them out.

We were able to head for home on Saturday although I-80 was still closed at North Platte. Bummer... a night in our fave hotel, pool time and home by noon on Halloween. Oh yeah, baby.

I know I complain about it sometimes, it is a lot of drving after all, but I really do love our trips to Nebraska.

Such great memories for us and our girls... Looking forward to many more!

Oh Rowy

2009-10-21T20:51:00.006-06:00

Conversation between Rowan and I a couple days ago...

"Mommy, do you know what I am going to be when I grow up?"

"No. What?"

"A doctor. Do you know what kind of doctor?"

"No."

"Guess."

"Rowan, I have no idea what kind of doctor you want to be when you grow up."

"A vegetarian. Because I love animals."

oh Rowy...

Pseudo Camping

2009-10-08T20:40:00.004-06:00

A few weeks pre-H1N1, we went on a pseudo-camping trip. This meant we pulled the camper up to some friends land near Wellington. They had a pig roast (what is up with all the pig references? interesting) and a big birthday party. We have been very disappointed this year that we only got one trip out in the Starman Hilton this summer so we were looking forward to it. And it was fun...

The Girls with The Peddicord's newest family member

(She started chewing on Tressy's hair right after this pic was taken!)

Adam and Melissa, the hosts, built a straw-bale house themselves. I've heard about them but had never actually seen one. It was absolutely beautiful. I was impressed! I wish I had pics of it but it's the slant roof in the sunset picture of Tressin.

Anyway... we just love our camper. Happy hibernating, ole Starman Hilton. Rest up. Next summer will be a different story!

Icky Piggy Shuffle

2009-10-08T20:18:00.002-06:00

This has by far been one of the longest weeks of my life. Monday morning, at Kelly's to drop the girls off, I thought... hmmm, Tressin feels a little warm. We took her temp and yes, she had a fever. Not really sure why mom's take temps. Dude, we know. We just know. I had a bad feeling. Now I am not a negative person. You can ask those that know me best. It is actually one of my pet peeves. Nothing drives me more crazy... "We will never make it to the front of this line. Our food is going to be horrible. The weather will be too hot, too cold, too windy..." I mean really, life is too short, buck up! So it wasn't necessarily negativity as much as realism. I knew it was coming. And it did. By Tuesday night she had a 104 degree fever and the most horrible cough and congestion I have ever heard. I didn't sleep a wink, even while she did between motrin doses and back rubs and soothing words from mommy. Wednesday afternoon we took her in and got confirmation of what we had suspected (mom had spent all of those sleepless hours on the internet you know)... H1N1 had hit the littlest Starman. We got her some Tamiflu in the nick of time. Got sissy some too. So it's Thursday night. Both girls are back to fighting and being sassy aka normal. Yay! What really sucks is that we can't go to Nebraska tomorrow, a trip that has been planned for like four months. No Grandma Carol, Papa Ermin, Auntie Terri, Auntie Julie, Uncle Larry, "the cousins", a fun ass wedding, Grandma Lordemann et al, Brooky Bottom, Grandma and Grandpa Starman, the Winns and taco pizza from Godfathers. Rowan cried when we told her we weren't going... poor thing. It was a tough call. But as parents, you have to do what is best for your family.

Now go wash your hands!

The Facts of Life (sans pics)

2009-09-23T20:40:00.004-06:00

Once again it has been too long since I updated "the blog". Oh well. Deal with it. Sorry Auntie Hat, I have good intentions but life just gets in the way.

Short version...

Rowan turned five. Crazy, crazy shit that I have a five year old. Even crazier is how much I love her. And that she drives me insane at the same time, especially in the mornings while getting ready for school. "Hey, can you run and put your shoes on please? Please go put your shoes on. I would appreciate if you would listen and put your shoes on. Put your shoes on or I am going to get upset with you... PUUUUT YOUR SHOOOOOES ON!!!!!!!"

The Winn's came. I love them. Especially the girl one. She gave me a keychain that put the forever in BFF.

The papa and the nana took a road trip to Northern CO. My dad hooked up with some of his old fraternity brothers and they went to a CSU game. (The "other" university in Colorado) He didn't understand what happened to them... they had gotten so damn old. Vee was psyched there was another wife younger than her. Probably not as psyched as that lady's husband. ;)

Our basement is coming along. HVAC, electrical and framing are nearly complete. Actually thinking about ordering drywall. Will it be done by Christmas?? Doubt it. Spring? Maybe. Next football season. Hell ya!

Gearing up for 9 nights in the Arbor State the second week in October. A Lordemann wedding (put your dancing shoes on), Aunt Terri's birthday, some time at Brooky Bottom, a Friday night in Fremont... it's all good.

Now that, my friends, is an update. The facts, if you will. But they aren't the facts of life. Remember that show? "You take the good, you take the bad, you take them all and there you have the facts of life..." It's not all good for us. Pretty sure it isn't for you either. We take the bad too. Trust me. But we hold strong to the fact that we can face challenges with the strength of a warrior, work through them with the heart of a savior, and wake up to better day.

That's just how we roll...

New Digs

2009-08-27T08:45:00.005-06:00

So the girls have a new room, well it's the same room but it looks a lot different so Rowan calls it her new room. We said goodbye to the baby furniture via Craigslist, covered the yellow walls with pink and put together some bunk beds.

I know change is inevitable but I had a tough time with this one. I cried when we took the crib down and got really nostalgic when we went to paint the room. I thought back to being about 5 months pregnant and since we decided the first time to not find out the sex of the baby, we had to do something neutral. Of course the most important things in our lives at that time were the dogs. Hence the yellow room and dog theme.

Two little girls later... Ta-da- Pink room! Gotta give props to our neighbor Jay who painted it for us. He did an awesome job, was really fast and is available. He told us that while he was painting Rowan peeked her head in and told him it was really cool that he was a painter. He said that's the first time a female has ever said that to him. Funny!

Bunk beds- before.

Bunk beds- After. They were surprisingly easy to put together.

The girls love them and mommy really hopes her favorite interior decorator will be making a Labor Day trip to Colorado so she can help with the finishing touches.

Beef and Bean Days

2009-08-13T21:09:00.005-06:00

I don't know what the second weekend in August represents to you... but to us and our fellow Milliken-ites... It's Beef and Bean Days, Baby! To be perfectly honest, besides the first year we moved here (the second weekend of August, 2003), we haven't really participated in the festivities. We always have something going on and invariably we always have something going on the second weekend of August. Until this year...

We rode bikes downtown for the parade. I was so impressed with my little farm town! It was pretty good!

Mini-Milliken-ites

We sat by a super nice family from West Greeley who were headed up to the Park to check out all the booths and activities they had going on. Of course, we also saw some of our neighbors and have I ever mentioned that I really like my neighbors? I do, and for the most part, always have. But in the last year or so, with some additions, Settlers Drive has become really fun. Lots of kids that are all about the same age. And with kids, usually comes parents. So we hang out between all the front yards; staring down speeders, breaking up fights (between the kids that is) and chit chatting. Out of the chit-chat came the idea for a little Block Party. And the First Annual Settlers Drive Beef and Bean Day BBQ was born! Everyone brought food and friends and we watched the fireworks, not to mention the crazy lightning show that accompanied the fireworks. Needless to say lightning that crazy is usually followed by torrential rain, at least this year in Weld County! So the party ended except for a few stragglers and the fire pit. It was exactly six years TO THE DAY that we moved here and I remembered again how lucky we are.

Here's some of the crew getting ready for fireworks.

Settlers Spawn

Now we are gearing up for Rowan to start "Pre-K" a week from Monday. I am changing up my work schedule so that I can pick her up everyday. But no more Monday's off... It's been four years, that I have had Monday's off. I'm gonna miss it but am excited to be done earlier everyday, pick Rowy up and maybe have some time to work-out. Enough about me, she's super pumped up for school!

We are taking one last little trip and going to Alamosa this weekend. Scott hasn't been able to go the last couple times and my brother Mark will have his kids so the girls can hang with their "cussins".

We might as well enjoy a little fun time because next weekend we will be putting a new room together for the girls, pink paint and all.

Now entering the "bunk bed years... look out!

My Promise

2009-07-23T21:13:00.003-06:00

While I may not be the best blogger, I am a pretty good blog stalker. The Zeman 4 is a good example. Remember, the woman I don't even know? (look down and to the right)

Then there is her sister, Bree. I have been stalking her blog for just about as long. I started right after she got married (about a year ago). Again, I don't know her, per se, but as I have read her adventures, including her and her husband's ordeals with infertility and in-vitro, I feel like I do.

She is really good at updating her blog so after four and a half weeks of nothing, I knew something was up... and believe me I checked every day hoping for the good news...

"I'm pregnant!", "It's twins!".

Then last night the news came... I was pregnant, it was twins, no heartbeats, d&c Friday.

I cried. And cried. And even prayed a little. Now I am not really the praying type, but for some reason it was the only way I felt I could send this broken-hearted woman and her loving husband some message of peace and hope and faith... I hope God listened.

In her blog she asked that those of us that have children not take for granted the gift we have been given. I won't, Bree. I promise.

I will give my girls an extra kiss tomorrow, in honor of Bree and Brian and their peace and hope and faith... and future family.

I'm Baaaaack!

2009-07-21T21:07:00.004-06:00

In high school it was bad... in college it got even worse. I'm talking about procrastination and I am real good at it. And the thing about procrastination is that it builds up and builds up until its like this mountain that you can't climb. Just thinking about it makes you break out in a cold sweat. And so much cool, fun shit has happened to us (some pretty sad stuff too). The blog had become that mountain. It's not that I haven't wanted to. I totally have, but the cold sweats kept coming. Feeling like I couldn't write, be creative, do this family blog the justice it deserved. But just like starting that 15 page paper about feudalism the night before its due, you just have to bite the bullet and do it.

So here is the Reader's Digest version of the past two months. I can't even begin to upload pics to go with it all so if you want to keep up visually... get on facebook.

We went to Fort Robinson with my mom and the Bobcat to celebrate my mom's 60th. What a neat place and a good time! We will definitely be back. We went camping at Jack's Gulch over Memorial Day weekend. A little rain and lots of fun. I turned 36. Thanks to my two little girls, I feel 26. Our Tressy Lulu Bean turned 2. Having a two year old makes me feel like 46. We had to say a very sad goodbye to our 4 year old Dobie, Marley, after he lost the ability to live the life he deserved. RIP buddy, you are missed. Scott and I golfed in a tourney in FC with the Peddicord's. As far as I can remember, I carried them. But that was just practice for Scott since he got to go to Omaha for the Farkle Fund tourney at the end of June. The girls and I went down to the 'mosa to see Nana and Papa and Mark and Marcus. Jake even showed up after getting back from Iraq and we went to Weekends... twice. The 3rd of July and Renner Sports Surfaces treated us to a Rockies game (they won) and some awesome fireworks! Then it was my turn to go to NE. A little BFF time, golf with Ermin and John C Fremont Days... the flight home was rough. And finally, a weekend trip to Glenwood Hot Springs with Grandma and Grandpa Starman. Beautiful weather and, man, that water feels good.

Wow, I can exhale. I did it.

And I will keep doing it. How could you look at this and not?

And it's way better than a paper on feudalism.

Sugar Bugs

2009-05-18T22:07:00.000-06:00

We have these friends that were able to get theirs boys into religiously brushing their teeth by telling them that if they didn't>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

SUGAR BUGS!!!!

They get in there and the EAT your teeth and they are

BAD!

We copied. Good oral hygiene is important.

The Dad got a winsdom tooth pulled. It was so gross yet fascinating at the same time. I should have been a dentist.

I will spare you the other side... yuck!

But as Starman showed it to Rowan, he looked at her and said "This is...

SUGAR BUGS!"

Her eyes got as big as saucers and we were both surprised she didn't run in and start brushing right then!

We are big believers in the "whatever works" theory on parenting.

A Deed of the Heart

2009-05-09T07:47:00.005-06:00

As I am sure you have figured out by now, Scott is from Nebraska. And so are his parents. And so are their parents. And probably so are thiers. I don't know. SO I will start out right now with a big fat disclaimer... I do not profess to be an "expert". They know who they are...:) It's really for those people and our girls, who will never see it, that I write this. All I know is what I know.

When Scott took me to Nebraska for the first time, we drove by the farm. Slowly. And I looked at that place and really was listening with great intent about all the games of hide and seek that Starman had played, but what I was really thinking about... was life on the farm.

Back in the day, outside Petersburg, Nebraska. FOURTEEN crazy kids running all over place... and noise, lots of noise, I'm sure. Thanking God for health, a good garden crop and the windbreak. I can only speculate but I am sure the food was good, the fights were many and the work was hard. I know for a fact the love was strong.

Grandma and Grandpa moved to town years ago and I believe renters came and went until it just sat empty, except for the friendly ghosts of memories past. Grandpa passed and Grandma moved to Omaha to be closer to the family. A couple months ago I got a mass email to the fam (you can imagine the size of that list!) Scott's cousin, Gloria, had an update on the farm. It was coming down. The time had come. Everyone was invited to come celebrate life on the farm.

It must have been heartwrenching... my mother-in-law was there with as many of the siblings that could make it, and grandkids and great-grandkids. No doubt Farkle was there too, blue yummy in hand. And down it came. A big bonfire followed and this is what was left.

It all caused me to take pause and reflect on the value we put on physical places. Take this little cracker box on Settlers Drive, that is hardly worth what we owe thanks to the mortgage crises and foreclosure mess. But that's just on paper. What it means to us, and will long after we have said good-bye to it, is immeasurable and we will always have that. Just as the Lordemann's will always have "the farm". A deed of the heart.

And as a footnote and testament to the resiliency and innovation of this great country... guess what they might use the land for?

A wind farm. Our new energy economy will be fueled by the laughter of children, the toil of hard-working hands and thoughts of choke cherry jelly...floating on the breeeze.

Awwwwww...kinda.

2009-05-08T22:36:00.005-06:00

So Rowan made me a Mother's Day gift at school. Now these are the things that really warm your heart. A cute hand painted terra cotta pot with a little mum in it. Get it? Mum?

But the best part was the little bag it came in... Specially decorated by the little hands of my first born child. She was so proud to show it to me and tell me in great detail all about what was on it.

"See these are balloons. And this is a house I drew (the two yellow circles with the green rectangles beneath). And these are stickers of stars, because we are Starman's.

And then we turn to the other side...awwww, I'm thinking the same thing you are as she begins her narrative.

"These are more balloons I drew and a heart and stickers of flowers because you like flowers."

"And me and Mrs. Hess."

I should have known...My hair isn't that big.

Big Girls Don't Cry

2009-04-13T21:38:00.000-06:00

I've been thinking its high time I gave a little update on the girlies- The update is they are getting big. And I love it! Now I do occasionally wax nostalgic thinking about the "baby days". They were both pretty good babies and I do love me a baby. But I love each new age better than the last.

Rowan is four going on fourteen; I can hardly handle it sometimes. Her swimming lesson are going well although I hope she graduates guppies before high school. She is still very into school. She had her first field trip to a real farm (The Cozy Cow Dairy). Oh man, I LOVED being able to go. Nothing cuter than a bunch of pre-schoolers at a farm.

I think she liked the bus trip the best!

She keeps telling us she is ready to go camping and spends a lot of time planning her birthday party--at the end of August. As anyone who has been around a four year old would know, it isn't always fun and games. Talking back, not listening, and swallowing marbles...It could be a long summer. I sure do love her!

Tressin, our little lulu bean, is hilarious. Her verbal skills are slowly but surely coming along, with the help of pretty good speech language therapist. Screeching, screaming and "mummle" are no longer her only forms of communication. She's just so fun to have around!

(Don't forget to pause the playlist to watch the vid)

We had a very nice Easter. The girls had candy for breakfast and maybe lunch, but then they were pretty much over it. We made a yummy dinner (linner) and shared it with our friends. Derrick's wife and kids have made the move to CO and we were so happy to have them all here!

I need to get better at the ole blog. I've been slacking lately. And I am going to re-attempt the Avery/Kirsten Weight Loss Program by taking the girl dog on lots more walks. Whatever works. All of us are looking forward to spring/summer!

Sunday was the first time in six years our anniversary has fallen on Easter. We were wondering how many times that will happen... It was cool to think about us in our 70's celebrating our anniversary on Easter...again. I also thought a lot about the day we got married. Besides being a great day, I couldn't help thinking that while a lot has changed since that sunny day in Vegas...

A lot hasn't-- We still argue about stupid things, agree about important things, like ourselves and love each other. We are still very happy and extremely lucky.

Livin' the dream, baby. Livin' the dream.

Downplay

2009-03-24T21:27:00.005-06:00

Greg McAuliffe

My dad

had a big birthday today...

Happy Birthday, Papa!

We love you but you know that...

We will let you get back to your computer. :)

After reviewing the tapes...

2009-03-21T17:59:00.005-06:00

Here's a little movie I found when I was looking through the camera. Proof that Starman is a total flirt and that I find Trent very entertaining--yes, that cackle in the background is me.

Can't wait for next year!

Oh yeah... don't forget to pause the playlist to the right (hit the two vertical lines).

You Can't Enjoy Vacation Life Without Real Life

2009-03-04T20:58:00.005-07:00

Every morning I stop at The Black Cup to get a coffee. Well not just any coffee. A double shot Americano with extra non-fat milk. This little drive thru coffee shop appeared across the street from my work a couple years ago after losing its lease in west Loveland. Soon after, my nice work opened an account and my double shot Americano with extra non fat milk is one benefit this part time worker, full time mother REALLY appreciates. They are super friendly, give out dog treats and lots of smiles. I've even seen them help a guy on a motorcycle secure his coffee in his saddle bag. They also decorate your lid with stickers and sayings and those cute plastic things that keep the hot drink from scalding you as you attempt the triple lane crossover maneuver.

This morning mine said "Low times make us appreciate high times."

Ain't it the truth.

High times:

Last Wednesday, we met our good friends, Trent and Steph, in Phoenix. A pool, hot tub, tee time reservations, and no kids. Yeah, all the makings of a lot of fun. And it was. I learned that all that time on the phone with Steph pays off. We start off right where we last ended. I learned that the four of us are pretty "travel compatible". Bodes well for future adventures. I also learned that partly cloudy in Phoenix means an occasional jet trail. Needless to say we had a great time. (I learned much, much more but for the sake of all involved, including myself, we will keep that "off-blog".)

The Starman's

He hit the pool somehow. Stone sober.

The Winn's

Girls Rule

Scott and Trent

Low times:

Sunday came and we had to come home. It went too fast, I don't have anything to look forward to anymore and I really miss my friend. Then Tressin got sick Monday night. And you know what I mean when I say "got" sick. Nothing serious but enough to worry a momma. I have missed a lot of work now, which sucks when you get paid by the hour. I am hopeful that the tide has turned and tomorrow will be a better day... and it doesn't hit Rowan until the weekend!

Sick Tress. She insisted on wearing the boots.

Next year we are going for a week.

We speak dog

2009-02-20T21:26:00.003-07:00

The Bastard Hound

So we are in Alamosa. Driving to town. (Aside... Dad and Vee are presently renting a mongo house in the country whilst they wait for someone to buy their beautiful ranch in St Cloud; with a full basement, three bedrooms, two and a half baths, right across from the pool with some very cool neighbors that like to have fun and drink a little; just in case your'e lookin). So Vee and I and the girls are driving to to town. Even in a mongo house you get cabin fever and the park sounded great. So did a latte, but that's just me. Up ahead we see some runners. As in people running. Not a weird scene in Alamosa. Adams State is known for its cross country team since training in the high altitude (around 7600 ft) is a runners wet dream. Circling the runners are some dogs. Again not that weird. We're out in the country remember, in Colorado. But as we get closer the other dogs take off to their respectable homes and there in the middle of the road is this guy.

According to the runners, this guy "bit off a little more than he can chew" and preceeded to give us directions back to the house he started following them from. So we turn around and head back to the green house from whence we believe he came. (Mind you, Rowan is in the back seat reminding me how cute he is and that we should keep him and Daddy really would really like him too... I am not so sure about the last one but I do know I need to get this dog out of my sight and truck soon or we may very well have another dog; just what we need). We pull into the driveway (very loose term) of "the green house" and of course no one answers the door. But while Vee is up there knocking, the bastard hound is going nuts in the truck. Almost like he was supposed to be IN the house going nuts because someone is knocking on the door for God's sake. At that moment I knew he was home. We let him out and he just stood there, looking at us, as we slowly backed away.

"How in the world did they know I lived here? They must speak dog."

We do.

Alamosa and I

2009-02-16T16:09:00.003-07:00

Sangre de Cristo Mountains (taken from the Hooper Hot Springs)

So while the men were framing the basement, the Starman girls took a road trip to "the 'mosa".

Alamosa, that is.

Now, Alamosa and I have a long storied past. My dad and Alison moved there when I was 14. (I promise to post a family tree someday but bare with me for now.) I was doing time in the south suburbs of Chicago with my mom for the majority of the year, but would occasionally summon the strength to leave all my friends and teenage angst (actually, I usually packed it with me) and head to the middle of nowhere. I could not for the life of me understand why on earth they were so happy to move there. It was freezing-- all the time. There was no mall for about 3 hours. One movie theatre and 15 Mexican restaurants. Just didn't get it. Now don't get me wrong, the highlight was the family time. And I have wonderful memories of Christmases and summers with them all. My affinity for them, however, never made it to my surroundings, and contempt for the Valley grew. After moving to Boulder (the best place in the world, as far as I was concerned) for college, I did spend more time down there, although my opinion of the area didn't change a whole lot. It could have something to do with the unbelievable stress and sadness that came with each visit that led up to very tearful, heart wrenching goodbye. After Alison died, I actually thought I should live there. My intentions were genuine, I desperately wanted to care for my grieving Dad and broken hearted little brother and sister. But alas, Alamosa and I were not meant to be. Years went by and shortly after I met Scott, my dad called to tell me he and Vee were moving the kids, Larry and Megan were the only ones left at home (again I promise a tree), to St.Cloud, Minnesota. For some reason, although Scott and I had only been dating a few months, I knew I had to take him there. We drove down, two huge dogs in tow, in 100 degree heat with no A/C. He must have liked me. Believe it or not, we had so much fun. We went to the Sand Dunes and hiked up Zapata Falls. We walked along the Rio Grande that slowly flowed right behind my parents house. And they all liked the big bald guy. Even Alamosa.

Now they have moved back. Back to the Valley. And maybe I have softened or matured or just plain gotten over it. But its really not that bad. The views are unbelievable. The atmosphere is small town yet cultured, thanks to the college and historical Hispanic influence. And the people are so, so very nice. Finally, almost 25 years later. I get it. It's not perfect. No where is, not even Boulder, and I had to learn that one the hard way. But it's a damn nice place. I actually am looking forward to many future trips to Alamosa--to see Nana and Papa and Mark and Marcus and the girls. Camping at the Sand Dunes, taking the girls up Zapata Falls and riding bikes along the Rio Grande.

I am at peace with Alamosa. I hope it is with me.

Mt. Blanca (hiding behind the clouds)-- Until we meet again

Under Construction: Part I

2009-02-09T16:38:00.008-07:00

2015 E Settlers is under construction. Finally. Not that it will be that exciting to most people. It's not some big custom home or second home or dream home. It's just the basement. But to us... it's pretty damn exciting. Expanding our living quarters is long overdue. So we bought the wood, a plane ticket for Scott's cousin, Duke, to fly out from Omaha and I made plans with Dad and Vee for the girls and I to head to Alamosa for the weekend. A grand scheme, if I do say so myself.

The Team

(Duke made sure to turn his hat around to make sure the "N" was showing; typical true Husker fan)

Before

After

So thank you Duke. Thank you Joe and Johnny Cakes. And most of all, thank you to the Starman. You are the best and you are right... I want it done! I'll even let you call it "the man cave" as long as you share it with the toy kitchen, lots of dolls and occasionally, me.

Faith Redeemed

2009-01-26T22:01:00.000-07:00

I am an idiot. Thank god. I totally forgot that when I got my new camera last year, Scott also got me another 2 mg memory, bringing the total I owned to two. SO I reach in to the the little pocket where I keep the cards and voila! There's two in there! Bottom line-- I have wedding pictures and a video of the ceremony and some other cool pics I took. Being such a space cadet really made my day.

Now I can show off some of our trip back to Indy (that's what the locals call it, you know). When we left Colorado last Friday it was unseasonably warm... but not really since Colorado weather generally rocks. Anyway, it was 63 degrees in the parking lot at DIA. (Sorry to anyone from Indy who is having to hear this story again for the umpteenth time) That's okay where we were going was going to be in the single digits. We fought the urge to "break down" on a golf course and headed off. Now for as cold as the weather is, the people are so typically, midwesternly, warm and friendly. On Saturday we did a little shopping and went to lunch at BW3's. Our bartender looked just like Steve Buscemi (I know I spelled his name wrong but you know who I am talking about.)

Then it was wedding time followed by a nice dinner and fun party... Derrick is a really good friend of ours and has been for a long time. He's just one of those people you like to be around. It meant a lot to us to be there for him on this day. And Crystal, he's been talking about it for a long time. As I've mentioned, both Scott and I come from "blended families". Which is such a funny term to me... would you like your family blended or on the rocks? Uh, guess I'll take blended. So it was great that Derrick and Crystal did so much to include their kids and obviously, it wasn't just for the day.

Kyra, Brice and Justice (really good kids)

Starman and D

The Happy Couple

Sorry to cut off the top of your head, Derrick. Like I said it was a fun party.

Bring on Aliza Mae!

2009-01-24T15:04:00.005-07:00

Aliza Mae Jaksha

My friend Taz had a beautiful baby girl at 12:15am on January 20, 2009! (Her blog is Life on Podtburg Circle if you didn't know.) So exciting for so many millions of reasons. Taz got to watch the inauguration hoopla from the comfort of a hospital bed. Woo hoo. I got to meet Aliza that day, then went home and watched TiVo'd hoopla. Wow, she gets a really cool birthday! Welcome my little friend.

Mom and baby

Tress, Aliza and Rowan

Tressin was most into this little bundle. She kept giving her kisses. Even a baby loves a baby!

My name is Kirsten and I am a blog-stalker.

2009-01-19T16:33:00.005-07:00

I'm trying to jazz up the blog a little... maybe I'll even do something with the background if I can ever figure that out. Always check out the "Blog Stalking" area. Good friends, good writers, cute kids. You will notice that I added one today- The Zeman 4. I have debated adding it for a long time because you see, I do not know these people. Never met them in my life. I've looked at a lot of blogs and for some reason, this is one that I go to regularly even though I have no idea who these people are. Nikki, the author/mother (first of many things we seem to have in common), is a good writer and much better at keeping up on it then I am. She has two boys, lives in the Springs, works, has a husband that travels a lot AND went to CU around the time I did. I'm older, of course. So while I struggled with whether or not to come out of the blog stalking closet, I thought, maybe there is someone out there who reads my blog that I don't know. Ya think? Hmmm...

Anyway, enjoy!

Frustrated but not giving up

2009-01-19T14:32:00.006-07:00

Technology sucks. My recent frustration in it has played into my lack of blogging lately. I tried to upload this movie of our lovely trip down to Alamosa after Christmas but I could never get it to. So it is on my facebook if you want to check it out... But I am over that and on with a new year.

This past weekend, Scott and I traveled to chilly Indianapolis for a very nice wedding. Derrick (who we have known for a long time) and Crystal (who we hope to know for a long time) finally made it official with a very touching ceremony and fun little reception. Scott and I enjoyed our weekend together and I had many pictures documenting the whole thing, including a video of the entire ceremony. But this morning, when I went to transfer to my computer... NOTHING! Are you kidding me? So annoying. I do have one decent picture that was on a different memory card.

So I don't have any proof that we had a bartender that looked exactly like Steve Bucsemi (or however you spell his name,) that Derrick and Crystals kids were super cute or that it was 63 degrees in Denver when we left. You will just have to believe me. D&C&K&J&B-- we had a great time, thank you. We are excited to see you again so get your butts out here!

A big shout out to Kelly and Cory for taking such good care of our girls. We don't know what we would do without you guys. I, for one, am so lucky that Kelly is absolutely nuts! You are the best and thank you.

Now back to the real world... Tressin had her second speech therapy appointment today. I found out we were approved for help on the Co-pay from a local foundation so that means she can continue for the 20 visits insurance will pay for. After that, we may look into something through the school district. They have completely ruled out a major neurological issue or autism since she is doing fine when it comes to fine/gross motor skills. So hopefully a little therapy will kick start her consonant and vowel sounds and she can start bossing us around with actual words.

I am also impatiently waiting to hear word of Baby Girl Jaksha's arrival. Taz was to be induced this afternoon, I believe. Anxious to meet her and learn what her name will be. Most of all hoping for a fast and safe delivery. Not too fast... epidurals are beautiful things. We will keep you posted.

Blog at ya later...

Happy Hololidays!

2009-01-05T15:10:00.012-07:00

Holy frijoles! The past few weeks have been a whirlwind to say the very least.

Time to catch up on all the haps from our little corner of the world...

Let's see, there was Rowan's school program. Super cute, of course, but also slightly disturbing. Rowan loved having her dad and I there plus little sis. Since Cody is in the same class, Kelly brought all the daycare kids. As for the disturbing part, I'll just say that some little ones really get the shaft when it comes to parents. My reason for the season #1: The wonderful teachers that went above and beyond and did everything they could to ease the pain of one little girl who clearly deserves better; like a mom who will show up. Grrrrr.

The next day was the shop party at Scott's work. Rowan was psyched to go with him in the morning and Tressin and I joined around 1pm. By that time Rowan was super pooped out from running around the shop with the other littles that came in early with their parents. Santa made his appearance at 2pm and I just love the picture of Rowan staring up at him as he began passing out the 50 some gifts picked out and wrapped by Kelley, Scott's office manager (she's so nice; crazy, but nice.) My reason for the season #2: Neil sporting the tree skirt in a very successful attempt to mimic an elf and the many, many belly laughs that ensued.

Then Starman's company Christmas party (for the adults), which I have no pictures of for some reason. We didn't even get that crazy. Curious. Anyway, it is always nice to get dressed up, have a good dinner, a couple drinks and enjoy the company of nice people. The highlight for me was that the next day he and I got to go grocery shopping together with no kids since they were at Grandma and the Bobcat's. Pretty sure it was not his highlight, but he's not the one writing the blog. So there. My reason for the season #3: The people who acknowledge and appreciate how unbelievably hard my husband works. He deserves it!

Then we started to really rev it up. After all day of cleaning in preparation, checking their flight status on line (they were delayed about 4 hours due to weather) and about 15 laps around DIA (it is a beautiful airport), I finally connected with Megan, Ryan and Mathisen. Yay! We had a little Holiday Open House on Christmas Eve with three kinds of soup and bevy's galore. It was so fun. We will do it again next year just in case you missed it! :) My reason for the season #4: We have great friends. And our neighbors make living in the ghetto totally bearable.

Mathisen David (he's so damn cute)

Tress getting the cookies ready for you -know-who!

Alas, the big day. Santa should make coffee on his way out. I think the girls awoke at about 5:20am. We were done long before the sun came up. I don't know if we, or Santa, hit the mark on the gifts. We toned it down quite a bit in reverence to GW's legacy. But they didn't go without either. Rowan was probably most excited about her "hip scotch rug" (hop scotch) or her notebook of lined paper (perfect gift for the little OCD'r). Tress didn't seem overly into anything in particular. Her biggest joy comes from stealing toys and being an all around annoyance to her big sister. Let me just say, she was full of joy! My reason for the season #5: I really wanted that ball retriever. Who needs an A-wedge? (Note: Scott got a rather large gift certificate to Dick's Sporting Goods from one of his work co-horts. And what did that stud do with it but buy me a new wedge! Sorry girls, he's mine.)

Tressin, Mathisen and Rowan (mid hip scotch).

My mom and the Bobcat joined us a for an awesome Christmas dinner- prime rib, twice baked potatoes, green bean casserole, rolls, a green salad. And pie. Yum. Then we rested up a little for the trip south. We probably would have rested a little more had we known what was in store for us. And that will be the next blog. Tune in.

My real reason for the season: A year or so ago, this guy started working at Pinnacle. He was and is a real estate broker. At first, I have to say, I was kinda put off by the guy. I'm no wallflower but this guy was over the top, in an almost used car salesman kinda way. Every morning when I would say Good Morning and Howya doin? his response was, "Livin' the dream" most often followed by a "Baby". Blech. I mean come on. But as I have gotten to know Dom, I have learned a lot about him and myself. We all have our quirks, our bad habits and our downright struggles. We all just want to do what's right by our families, our friends, and ourselves. We all wake up every morning and make a choice on how we are going to approach our day, our life. This Christmas and from here on out, I have made my choice. I'm livin' the dream baby.

I hope you are too.

Life is a Parade or an Anti-Depressant- You Make the Call

2008-12-11T21:14:00.006-07:00

Or something like that...

Papa and Rowan

My dad and his wife, Veronica aka Vee, just moved back to Alamosa, Colorado after a 6 year hiatus in Minnesota. (I know she is technically my step-mom and I love her more than anything, but I honestly can't say "stepmom" without laughing since she is only 7 years older than me- sorry Vee.) A month or so ago they had this truly brilliant idea (although not unique we quickly learned) to meet in Denver, get hotel rooms downtown and take the girls to the Parade of Lights; Denver's fairly decent display of bands and floats decorated in... uh, well, lights. We thankfully agreed and Friday evening my nice boss, Peggy, dropped me at 17th and Champa after we attended the three Granby HOA's annual meetings up at Granby Ranch (it went very well, thanks for asking). Shortly thereafter, the girls arrived with their Dad, and it was great to all be together. It's been a long time. Dad and Vee are the best Nana and Papa... they love just hanging out with the girls and it was cool to see the girls warm up to them so quickly.

Nana and Tressin (the sign did say "Only 7 and under"- maybe Vee assumed it was feet?)

Two Pretty Cool Dudes

Mama and her little Bugeater

Scott and I were super spoiled- we got to go out a little (okay maybe a little more than a little), sleep in BOTH mornings and have the best dinner ever at Panzano's in the Oxford Hotel- we highly recommend it and Christian the waiter. We are so lucky and hope they know how grateful we are...

We also managed to get a tree on Sunday afternoon. It's all set up. Nothing says Christmas like a fire hazard that constantly drops pine needles everywhere. It does smell good.

I have a million things to do in the next couple weeks in xmas prep. Megan, Ryan and Mathisen get here on the 23rd. And on the 26th, we are all piling in a rented Yukon and heading to the Valley to see the rents again.

But I just try and take it one day at a time. The other morning we were headed to school and Rowan says, quite seriously, something I can't really make out. I had her repeat it a few times and then I got it--- "Mom, when depression hurts, there's Cymbalta, right?" I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. I just decided to cut back on the TV. What can you do?

Top Ten and a Half Things Learned on the Trip to Nebraska (for nine days)

2008-12-03T22:08:00.012-07:00

1. Tressin can scream for about an hour strait (starting in Fort Morgan, mind you).

2. When cows are sleeping with their legs pointing up in the air, they are not sleeping. The deadwagon just hasn't been by yet.

3. Sage brush can look just like a deer to a city girl.

Tressin, Grandpa Starman and Rowan

4. Taco pizza from Godfathers is quite possibly the world's most perfect food.

5. Catching your 4 year old daughter kissing your best friend's 4 year old son is a little freaky and very funny.

Landon and Rowan

6. Cute little old ladies playing bingo take it very seriously.

Great Grandma Lordemann and Rowan

"Bingo" says Tressin

7. My idea of a small piece of pie and Grandma's idea of a small peice of pie are quite different. "It'll do."

Aunt Julie, Rowan and Bailee

8. Canasta takes forever to play. But I already knew that. I did learn that Aunt Rita can sleep between turns.

Tressin and Bailee

9. Nebraska football games are like nothing else in this world but losing your diamond earring can ruin even the best day.

Sea of Red

10. Starman has a freaking huge family- but again, I knew that already.

Starman and maybe 1/2 of his cousins

Maybe a 1/4 of the great grandkids- Tress was sleeping

10 1/2. Life is good when Sister Agnes is almost done with her chocolate martini.

Not the Usual List

2008-11-27T13:17:00.003-07:00

So every where I look there are these lists of what everyone is thankful for. Family, friends, health all seem the common denominator. Well not on the Starman blog folks... As I thought today about what I am truly thankful for I came up with some rather unusual answers.

1.) Divorce
Uh come again, I can hear most people saying. But really, I am thankful that my parents and Scott's parents were smart enough and brave enough to endure the pain of divorce. While it caused both of us some heartache, and our parents too, I'm sure- without it we wouldn't be the people we are today. More importantly we wouldn't have these incredible step-parents in our lives and in the lives of our girls. Without the "Big D" there would be no Bobcat, no Bonnie, no Vee and no Ermin. A life I really can't imagine and frankly, don't want to.

2.) Disease and Death
Are you done reading yet? I know, it's pretty glum talk for what is supposed to be such an upbeat time of year, but stick with me, if you can. I will spare the gory details... Our family has been through the wringer when it comes to horrible, incurable ailments that can and have taken the lives of people we love way earlier than we would have liked. But again, it is the challenge of these times that have brought us together, made us understand the frailty of life and be truly thankful for every moment we have. Life isn't a dress rehearsal, so go ahead and have seconds, have another glass of wine and for God sakes, dance. You can't do it when your dead.

3.) War
This one is tough. Very tough. How on earth does someone find a reason to give thanks for such a reprehensible act? Because it makes those of us that are safe and warm and full and able to vote, safe and warm and full and able to vote. Our Larry is in Afghanistan right now. The pictures and videos he is able to post on Myspace give us only a glimpse into what he is going through, but I believe the Army saved him from an even darker life. I am sure that I will never be able to fully comprehend what the Vietnam and WWII vets in our family endured. And they did it simply because they were asked to by their country. I am thankful for it. More than words can say.

Thanksgiving isn't always what you think it will be. Most of the time, it's better. Kinda like life.

Happy Thanksgiving from The Starman's!

A three hour tour, a three hour tour

2008-11-20T21:06:00.003-07:00

I wonder how Gilligan felt when he was packing up the tiny ship. Probably not too worried. I mean, all he needed was a couple fishing poles, a tray of snacks and a camera to take pictures of the two hotties, Mary Anne and the movie star. I am sure that he didn't feel like he was going to have a nervous breakdown... kinda like I feel right now. Tomorrow evening we leave on our nine day trip to Nebraska. Scott keeps asking me why I have to tell everyone it's nine days.

BECAUSE IT'S NINE DAYS!

(an aside to quote one of the best movies of all time... "Nine times? I don't remember him being sick nine times." "That's prbably because he wasn't sick. He was skipping school." Okay, got that out of my system)

Now don't get me wrong. I am totally looking forward to seeing everyone. I know Scott really is too and the girls are going to have a blast. But seriously, just thinking about, let alone trying to organize and pack, nine days worth of all the crap that two adults and two small children need as they travel from one destination to the other, has led me to this- blogging and drinking a Bud Lite, at the same time no less. I know, I know, there are washing machines and Wal Marts in Nebraska so dirty clothes and the forgotton toothbrush are not going to ruin the trip, but still... Why can't I get that song out of my mind? "A three hour tour, a three hour tour."

Now back to work...

I said Yes

2008-11-14T20:09:00.003-07:00

November 14, 2002. It was a Thursday. Scott had been laid off for about a month. He was home and bored and kept calling me and calling me, "What are you doing? When are you coming home?" I was getting annoyed. "Uh, working. And yeah, when I am done, I will be home."

We met in March 2001. Went on our first "date" in April. In May, I went to back to his little sister's graduation in Nebraska and met the family. We moved in together in June. In September, we bought a truck together. My mom asked, "What will you do when you break up?" I just told her, "I really don't think we will."

So I was driving home on that Thursday evening. Annoyed. He called again. "Are you on your way home?" Grrrrrr. "YES." I pulled into the driveway and the door was wide open. I thought to myself, "What is he thinking? Like we have money for the door to be wide open on a cold November night when he isn't working?" Double grrrrrrr.

But when I got to the door and looked inside, my heart and chin dropped. Every candle in the house was lit and they were all over the living room. And a huge bouquet of roses was perched on the kitchen table. I couldn't see him. So I walked inside and he came around the corner. The rest is kind of a blur... But I remember a ring and a kneel-down and the best question I have ever been asked.

I cried. And I said Yes.

The Mama Speaks (and smiles)

2008-11-04T22:32:00.005-07:00

You cannot deny the occasion. You cannot deny the history.

I was lucky enough to be raised to believe that we are all equal; regardless of your color, religion, ability. And that's not just what I believe, it's how live. But I really didn't know if I would ever see a day like today. America is a place where all things are possible. I've never believed it more than I do right now. And now the hard work begins...

I can't stop thinking about my little Tress. At almost 18 months, she hardly knows the significance, and that's the best part. That's progress and a small part of leaving her a better world.

Tomorrow morning I will tell my daughters that in this country, one that their great-grandpa's fought for, that their grandpa's fought and served for and one that their uncles fight for today, that they can be anything they want. And I will never stop. Because they can.
And tonight proves it.

This holiday has been brought to you by your local dentist.

2008-11-01T15:50:00.009-06:00

Halloween was two days long for us since Rowan doesn't have school on Fridays, the preschoolers celebrated on Thursday. The big parade was scheduled for 9:45am and since that really doesn't give me enough time to drive into work and back, I was lucky enough to get to stay and help in the classroom. I loved it! The teachers put me to work cutting and I am not a great cutter, I learned. I cut 68 little palm tree tops. Poor kids imaginations will get a work out on that one. Then it was costume time. Okay, I really don't think there is anything cuter than 12 little preschoolers in costumes...

And their off...

That's right Rowan, police officers are your friend!

That night we carved pumpkins. Rowan did a great job on this one...

Then disaster struck at the hands of her little sister (more due to lack of supervision on my part so I took the blame) and it ended up like this, shortly after the above picture was taken. Rowan took it in stride, thank goodness.

What a dad! He drives 800 miles and pours 2 courts in 36 hours and still has time for pumpkin carving.

And then it's finally Halloween.

Rowan is Daphne from Scooby Doo fame. Don't get me started. I was pushing for Velma and then we got into the "is it better to be smart than pretty or pretty than smart debate." I guess lucky for her, she's both. Tressin is a girl turtle- or gurtle. And quite the gurtle she is. She walked all the way to the end of the block and back with her bucket. And what's with these kids automatically getting the whole trick or treat concept? She just walks up to the door, sticks her bucket up and someone puts candy in it. I think they are born with it.Trick or treat partners- Ryan and Kiera from next door.

The Starman girls. Da da-da daaaaa....it's Super Mom. Faster than a falling sippee cup, able to leap large piles of laundry in a single bound.

Hope your Halloween was a good one. Now go brush your teeth!

If You Don't Vote, Don't Bitch

2008-10-29T22:08:00.000-06:00

Crap. Here comes winter. Maybe? It's been so nice it's hard to remind yourself that before you know it it will be cold. Yuck. All the leaves are off the trees, the sprinkler system will be blown out this weekend for SURE and I better up my search for some decent size 10 boots for Rowan. But it is going to be so busy the next couple months, maybe I won't notice. Of course, Halloween on Friday, pretty sure one post will be dedicated to that topic. We took two grumpy girls to the pumpkin patch the weekend before last. Five pumpkins and $600 later, I'm still trying to figure out when exactly they will all get carved in the next 48 hours.

Then November and a week in Nebraska! Christmas will be here before I know it. We are making our first real Christmas dinner. Megan, Ryan and Mathisen will be here and my mom and the Bobcat! We have done Thanksgiving once but this is a Christmas first. I am pretty excited! Starman's can cook up some s***, I'll tell you what.

Last Monday, the girls and I went to the Children's Museum in Denver with my mom. What a cool place! They really liked it and I will definitely go back. We got there right pretty much when it opened and that was perfect. Then me and my "ladies" met an old friend of mine from high school for lunch. Since she was working. she was dressed very nice. When we got up to leave the restaurant, Rowan looked down at her high heels, (she definitely has never seen her mom in any!) and exclaimed "I love your shoes!" On the way home she asked me if she was a princess. I told her yes, yes she is. It was so nice to see my old friend again...

Starman is gone as usual... in Ridgeway, maybe there isn't an "e", can't remember. At least he got to drive through the beautiful town of my birth, Montrose, Colorado. He said the McCain-Obama people were out in full force on opposite sides of the main intersection in town, yelling, waving their signs. In Montrose??? Kinda surreal. I think he will be done traveling for awhile after this. We hope so.

Pink cowboy hat- a long time favorite

Cheerio booger

We stopped fighting over the hat for two seconds and happened to smile.

Happy Halloween!

And most of all, VOTE!

T.S. Eliot, William Faulkner, Kirsten Starman??

2008-10-11T19:34:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I think too much. I'm telling you I can over-analyze like no other. For instance, I have started this blog post three times today, just to delete it. It's funny that when you think you have a lot to say, or blog as it is, you sit down and nothing comes out. Pardon the stream of consciousness post...it's the best I can do today.

First, let me tell you how much fun it was to have the Winn's in town. We partied like rock stars and realized we are way to old for such shenanigans. As fun as it was, it was bittersweet for me. I miss Stephanie more than I realized. I really do believe in my heart we will be friends forever. But the reality has set in. We will be long distant friends forever. They would be crazy to leave their beautiful house and all their family and the chances of us moving to Fremont, Nebraska are very slim, to say the least. I miss meeting at Target, taking the kids to the park, to the zoo, to Wendy's. I miss going over to their house for dinner on a whim. I remember my mom telling me one time, "When you die, if you can count your good friends on one hand, consider yourself lucky." Well, one down.

Work...argh. Scott has been gone a lot. Vegas, Salt Lake, the aforementioned trip to Omaha, Vegas and back to Vegas next week. It's better than the alternative; having no work. But his absence is exhausting for all of us. My job has been pretty challenging lately as well and I can sum it up in one word...budgets. Unless you live under a rock, you know that the economy is, uh ,well, volatile. Makes putting together budgets, especially the part when you tell people how much your services are going to cost them, fun. Car accident fun. Hemorrhoid fun. Besides that, look what happened to some of our constituents in Windsor yesterday. I took this picture this morning since yesterday morning there was so much water gushing out, I had to stand on the play structure behind the fence to survey what was going on. The poor homeowner said, "It sounds like a jet!" I thought, it sounds like a lot of money that no one is going to want to spend. Sweet.

Scott and I had our first ever parent-teacher conference on Friday afternoon. Talk about a milestone. The report from Mrs. Hess was about what we expected. Rowan is trending to be a class leader and a little above where she should be academically. Right on target socially. We were both so impressed with her teacher, the curriculum and the very detailed progress system they have for preschoolers. Looks like she will do pre-K next year and we are crossing our fingers for all day kindergarten the year after. Rowan still loves it. She said to me last week, "I want to go to school all day because I just love school."

And then there is Tressin who, although she still doesn't say any real words, makes us laugh and keeps us on our toes; she loves to play with everything she is not supposed to and nothing she is supposed to. Her pediatrician and Kelly keep me on an even kilter when it comes to her speech, or lack thereof. At her last well-check, I expressed my concern, "She doesn't say anything. Maybe a rare ma or da. But that's it." At first he patiently explained to me that she was fine, that it was very common in second children, especially with an older sibling that is quite verbal (enter Rowan). I continued to prod and question, so he did some very basic autism evaluations. "Tressin," he said. She looked right at him. He pointed to a poster on the wall, "What's that?" She looked right over at it. She's fine, he said. Freakazoid mother was still not satisfied and I think he was starting to lose his patience a little. "Do you think she hears okay?" he asked. "Yes." "SHE'S FINE!" Okay, okay, okay.

It's cold and rainy and I won't be surprised if there is snow on the ground tomorrow morning. We went for a walk today and I took a picture of this barn I always admire when we walk to the other side of the subdivision. It's so "American". I love it. Our good ole buddy Tango is buried on the bank of the pond you can barely see in the foreground. I guess he gets to enjoy it all the time.

My dad and Vee will be saying goodbye to St Cloud, Minnesota and heading back to Alamosa on Monday. We are happy to have them a little closer but pretty bummed we can't be at the big going away party tonight. Oh well, our livers will thank us.

Oh yeah. Remind to not talk about football on this blog anymore. Remember "All three Starman team are undefeated"? I jinxed them. The Buffs and Huskers have not won since. So I am not even going to say Go Broncos! Whoops.

That's that.

One Incredible Woman

2008-10-04T08:24:00.000-06:00

Ninety years ago today, Scott's sweet, amazing, inspirational, cute little Grandma was born. Yes--90 years! Now, I have only known Lucille for the last 7 and a half. I'm no mathemateican so I will just say that's a real small percentage of the time she has spent on this earth. But from the minute I met her, I knew she was someone very special. Now, you must know, if you don't already, that Lucille and her beloved husband, Ray, had 14 children! Yes--14 children! Again, I have been in the know for almost 8 years and it still blows my mind. I wish I knew the exact numbers but she has more than a couple dozen grankids and the great grandkid count has to be over 50! Yeah the numbers are huge but what's even more amazing than that is that Grandma has a way of making every last one of us (even those of us lucky enough to have married into this crazy family) feel important and loved and special. What a gift!

Grandma loves to quilt and sew. She'll whoop you at any card game. Her faith in God is unwavering. Family is her life. I don't doubt that she misses Grandpa Ray everyday, especially on days like today. But I am also sure that he is with her, wishing her the best of times and urging her to enjoy them all.

Luckily, Scott is able to be in Omaha today to celebrate with Grandma, the Lordemann clan and the wanna-bes. Drink a white russian for me; I will be there in spirit.

So instead of Happy Brithday (it's too passe to capture the magnitude of what today really is) I will end with a Thank You. Thank you for being born, Grandma. Thank you for having my loving mother in law, who gave me and the world, an incredible man I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with. Most of all thank you for giving us the oppurtunity to share in the lives of our daughters. Without you, this Starman family ride would not be possible.

We hope you have a great day!

Goodbye Summer, Hello Football

2008-09-22T20:39:00.000-06:00

I think around 9:44am today, summer officially ended. But rather than focusing on the end of another fun filled season of hot days and warm nights- I choose to focus on beginnings. Fall in Colorado; there is truly nothing like it. The night air begins to get that little bite of chill. Leaves stubbornly fall in full color as if to say "I'm gonna make you miss me". We busted out the Coleman for one last hoorah and headed to Jack's Gulch this past weekend. The weather was absolutely beautiful, even the little bit of rain was nice. We took a drive on Saturday. It was my idea, I admit it. And it started out well...

We saw some beautiful aspen fields as we travelled over Pennock Pass (a level 6 road! ain't nothin for the Chevy baby!)

But, as with all good mountain drives when you really don't know where you are going, it was way too long- especially with a little Tress that isn't so crazy about windy roads (way to go mom). About a half hour before we got back to camp Rowan just lost it-"But I just didn't want to go on such on long drive." Yep, mom of the year award- right here. Needless to say we made it through "the drive" and when we got back, Daddy set up the tent for the girls to play in. They thought that was pretty cool.

The weekend prior, Scott and I had a very nice time hanging out watching the Husker game Saturday night and golfing Sunday morning, while the girls had a sleepover at Grandma Sheila and the Bobcat's. I know it is important for us to have big people time but being at my house without my kids was super duper strange. Luckily, it doesn't happen very often. I will remind myself of that when Tressin needs a diaper change at 1am and Rowan has a bad dream at 4am.

The good news is... it's football season. The better news is... all three Starman teams are undefeated so far. Scott was lucky enough to be at the Denver/San Diego game courtesy of LER. Go Donkeys! Mama fears her Buffies have their work cut out for them this weekend when they travel to Jacksonville to face FSU. Oh well, The Winns will be here from Nebraska this weekend and I sure don't mind the incessant Go Big Red chants, especially when my BFF is around! Party in the garage at 2015 if you are in the neighborhood.

Suzie for President!

2008-09-09T21:13:00.000-06:00

We made it through the Olympics, the DNC, Rowan's actual birthday, Labor Day weekend, the RNC, getting a new roof and Hurricane Gustav. Okay, maybe not the hurricane part but the last couple weeks have been action-packed, otherwise known as business as usual around here.

Scott and Derrick hit "the range" ghetto-Milliken style.

Our nice friends, the Kinyons, had us over for "potluck" and that was fun and loud and A LOT of little girls under 4~ plus John! All the entertainment we needed...

Saturday, the 6th, was Rowan's Birthday Fest 2008. This year, the twist we provided was the constant fear of being booted for illegally gathering in a "private" park. Oh yeah, and a Scooby Doo pinata. The feds never showed up to evict us and I think fun was had by all. I know that Rowan had a blast and I guess, in the end, that's all that matters. And, hey man, check out that cake Kelly made--groovy! Give that girl a scooby snack! :)

Now I refuse to let this family blog get political. I have no right to assume I can speak for the thoughts and beliefs of each member of this foursome. But I will say this, I want the best for the future of this world for two main reasons, who are asleep in the next room, and counting on me and their father to give them the tools for a wonderful life. But if anyone else is willing to start a write-in campaign for Suzie Wargin (the coolest sports chick ever), email me.

Peace out.

Today Preschool, Tomorrow College

2008-08-26T21:24:00.000-06:00

Rowan sailed through her first day of school like a seasoned pro. I, on the other hand, grumbled and whined through another day at work acting like someone who had lost her puppy or spilled coffee on herself. (We still have two dogs but I do have a pair of capris in need of some good stain remover.) I was a little nervous about getting there on time, which meant we drove the little streets surrounding the school for about 15 minutes before start time. Rowan kept asking me if I was sure I knew where her school was and I kept waiting for the neighborhood watch to report me. But we made it! She looked so cute with her new all pink LL Bean pack that she picked out herself. She couldn't wait for the teachers to open the doors and let her in to learn her letters and numbers and do "all her work". With a kiss goodbye, I left her to the sign-in table, where she carefully wrote her name on her card. Tressin was quite disappointed that we had to leave; way too much cool stuff to play with. You are still all mine for a little while, my sweets (thank goodness).Kelly, the thoughtful fellow mama that she is, had Rowan call me when she went to pick up. I asked her how school was. Her response... "It was awesome!"

I'm so glad little miss, but sure not as awesome as you!

Change is Constant

2008-08-22T21:33:00.000-06:00

I had a smart ass physics professor that used to always say "change is constant", and then giggle. But he's right... everything is constantly changing. Little mundane things like the weather (I can practically smell fall its so close... haven't had the air on in a week!) More significant things like how people are doing business in this crazy economy; work has been a little nutty for both Scott and I the last few weeks. And of course the biggies- the ones that sneak up on you and smack you over the head and go "Ha! Gotcha!". Rowan Jane starts preschool next week.

She will attend Tozer Primary, a public school in Windsor, M-TH from 8:05 to 11:00. Her cousins, Cody and Wyatt go there, too. Don't get me started on the state of preschool in Colorado but luckily we have the oppurtunity to pay the tuition-- yes, tuition in a public school. Preschool ain't free around here.

I hope, and truly believe, the little diva will really love it and she hasn't expressed any outward reservations about going. Although I think it is weighing on her a little. Scott and I will attend orientation with her on Monday morning to meet her teacher and see the classroom. I'm sure that will help ease her mind. Now what about mine?? Oh yeah, and she wants to take showers now. She is too big for baths. Come on kid, take it easy on your poor mom.

I am preparing myself for a busy September for Scott at work. I think he will be traveling a lot. Doesn't help that I am coming into a very busy part of the year myself-- 2009 budget prep. Not a fun topic with everyone's cash flow issues. I can't complain too much. I was treated to 9 holes of golf at Headwaters Golf Course at Granby Ranch prior to Board meetings of the 3 associations we manage up there. I played by myself and shot a 53! I swear! I think when I go in October I will go through Rocky Mountain National Park and over Trail Ridge Road, weather permitting, of course. I've never been on that road before, that I remember anyway.

After record setting heat and scary drought conditions we actually had almost four strait days of rain a week or so ago. While it was much needed and a pleasant change, I was a typical Coloradoan... after a couple days of no sunshine, I got a little grumpy. Luckily, it broke a little earlier than they thought and took the girls up to New West Fest in Fort Collins on Sunday morning. Good festival food and even better people watching. With four stages set up through out Old Town we listened to a lot of music. Buckskin Stallion was our favorite, minus Tress, she slept through it.

Besides all that, our good neighbors Joe and Emmalie annouced they are having another baby, Taz, Joe and Ava find out the sex of their little bundle on Monday and my pretty sissy, Ryan and Mati are officially coming to CO for Christmas!! Now if I could just get through these Olympics (or Milikits as Rowan calls them) and my husband all the sudden being an expert on everything from diving "ohh, too much splash" to gymnastics "ahh, form break". He was just into it for the women's volleyball anyway.

Well I guess constant change is sure better than the alternative and how can you complain when you see a smile like this?

Until next time...

8-8-08

2008-08-09T06:52:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was 8-8-08, as if you didn't know that. The hype was pretty big with the Olympics starting and all. But it is also a bit of a momentous day for us. Five years ago Scott and I signed paper after paper incurring the largest, long term debt of our lives- we bought our house! As I thought back on the last five years, I couldn't help but remember that day; we were so excited. I felt like it was mansion- we had these TWO extra rooms; what were we going to put in them?? Well we filled em up all right. A play kitchen, books, toys, lots and lots of little pink clothes and two beautiful, busy girls! So as I complain about getting that darn basement finished so we have more room (thoughts of a mansion wore off long ago) I have to remind myself that we are so lucky to have a home of our own. Many of our neighbors have not faired as well with the foreclosure mess hitting hard in our little 'hood. I know we won't live here forever. But 8-8-03 and 2015 E Settlers Drive will always be special to me. It's where this whole Starman Family thing started, where we brought our little babies from the hospital-it's our home.

Big Fat Hairy Dog Days

2008-08-05T21:00:00.000-06:00

Wow! It's been hot! Like super-crazy-gotta-be-global-warming HOT! I, secretly, love it. Everyone is complaining, I feel like I should, too. But the truth is. I love it! It's a dry hot! (Like an oven, my husband says). Well I don't mind it. Probably, because I am lucky(and thankful) for the ability to enjoy the wonderfulness of AC at home and work. We have found ways to stay cool- trips to sprinkler park, setting up the slip and slide (man I wish I got some video of that!) and good ole ice cream.

No big upcoming plans. We are looking forward to watching the Olympics and getting Rowan ready to start pre-school at the end of the month. I can't believe the summer is nearing its end. Time sure does fly when you are having fun!

Copper Mountain

2008-07-28T09:42:00.000-06:00

This past weekend, my mom and the Bobcat treated us to a very nice time up in Copper Mountain. Pre-children, Scott and I spent a lot of time up there as it was our favorite place to ski. I had never really been there in the summer though and I have to say I like it even better. There is an unbelievable amount of things to do! The Bobcat and Scott played 36 holes of golf and I managed 9 each day. The back nine meanders through the woody area behind the Super Bee lift. It is quite amazing how they built this course right on the ski runs. Rowan also "played" the second day, consistently making good contact although I am pretty sure she does it all for the golf cart ride!

I was surprised and saddened by the very noticeable beetle kill on the pine trees everywhere. If they don't figure something out, I'm afraid the whole thing will go up in flames within the next 15 years.

Mom and I took a nice little walk slash bike ride with the girls. Tressin is really a character. She still doesn't say much, like anything (maybe the occasional mama) but finds ways to communicate nonetheless and has no problems letting her needs be known. Her personality is quite different than her sister's. Rowan has always been so cautious and Tress has no fear, or maybe its common sense.

It was a great time albeit too short! And the traffic coming down I-70 was horrendous! Now I remember why we don't go up much anymore.

Thanks again to Mom and the Bobcat!

Life is a Song Lyric- Part 1

2008-07-21T21:27:00.000-06:00

"I'm what I am. I'm what I'm not.

I'm sure happy with what I've got.

I live and love and laugh a lot.

And that's all I need."

Kenny Chesney

Visitors

2008-07-21T10:08:00.001-06:00

We did have some visitors. Chickmunks, as Rowan calls them, getting fat and happy off dog food.

Happy Campers

2008-07-21T06:46:00.000-06:00

One of our favorite family activites is camping. We have a nice pop-up camper so it's not really "roughing it" but , hey, there is no TV or computer so we are semi-unplugged. We hauled the ole Coleman up to a nice spot we found last year called Jack's Gulch, off the Pingree Park road up Poudre Canyon, for those who may know the area.

The girls seem to really enjoy the fresh air and we just pretty much hang out. It was a little toasty, even up in the mountains, this past weekend. But we still had a nice time. Rowan did some bike riding and Tressin took time out to stop and smell the flowers.

Welcome Baby Lanie!

2008-07-20T21:31:00.000-06:00

Our friends, John and Angy, had the sweetest little baby girl on July 11 (7-11, cool!). The girls and I stopped by to introduce ourselves. I loved holding her! She reminded me so much of my own, about the same size. Tressin was too busy chasing their dogs, Buzz and Chip, to have her picture taken.

I Love Mondays!

2008-07-14T20:36:00.000-06:00

I don't work on Mondays. At least, not the job I get paid for. I get to spend the first day of the week with my two little cherubs and I do my best to make everyone special for us. Gas prices have put a crimp on our travels to far away places like the Denver Zoo or the "super cool, huge park" in Fort Collins, but we still manage to make the most of it. Today we went for an early bike ride before it got too hot. After Tressy's morning nap we went down the road three miles to Johnstown to hit the library and market. I had packed a little picnic thinking a park might be a good idea... but at almost 100 degrees, even the shade wasn't fun. So a quick phone call and we headed to the Jaksha's for lunch with Taz and Ava. We scarfed down our PB&J's and watermelon, thanked them for crashing and the company and came back for one of my favorite parts of the day-- NAPTIME!

The highlight of this Monday was meeting up with Grandma Sheila, the Bobcat and Great Grandpa Moody for a little dinner at the Double Tree in Platteville. Since Grandpa has moved to Newport, Nebraska we don't see him much. Although too short, it was a nice visit. Now that I am an official blogger, I need to get better about capturing our adventures with the camera and unfortunately, I don't have any pics of GG, as he asked to be called, and the girls.

I treasure these days more than I can describe. A promotion opportunity has come before me at work that is very intriguing. The work itself would be interesting and of course the additional money wouldn't be bad either. The trade-off-- work on Mondays. I have thought about it long and hard. Our neighbors, Joe and Emmalie, have two younguns as well. I was over there with Joe's mom, Liz, a couple weeks ago, (on a Monday, nonetheless) and I was telling her of my dilemma while the kids played in the pool. Liz has been a nurse for a long time and she said something to me that I just can't shake. She told me that in all the people she has been with before they leave this earth, no one has ever said, "I wish I would have worked more." I don't think I will give this Monday bliss up-- I just can't. One day, these Monday's will be nothing but a memory, when school comes and work once again fills 5 days of the week. Until then-- I love Mondays!

It was only a matter of time...

2008-07-12T14:00:00.000-06:00

Most of you know that I love my family AND playing on the 'puter, so it was only a matter of time before "the family blog" became a reality. While I don't have anything particularly enthralling going on in my life, I thought some people may want to keep up on the trials and tribulations of a young, working class family. Scott and I are dedicated to living life to the fullest every day. We are, with great intention, raising two girls to believe that they can accomplish anything they want and that they are unconditionally loved forever. We work hard to keep a roof over our head, food on the table and have a little bit of fun. We aren't perfect but we learn from our mistakes and stay true to what we believe. Life is a wild ride and if your in the same car as the Starman Family you are bound to have a good time. So stay tuned, post a comment if you want (although voyeurism is strongly encouraged), and we're off!