SADIE IS HOME!!! We picked her up yesterday a...
December 29, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
SADIE IS HOME!!! We picked her up yesterday at 4:30. We drove back down and she spent the night at our house, before we took her to her mom's house. The weather was a drastic change for her. She immediately put on warm pants, warm shirt, warm vest, warm scarf, and warm hat on. She looked like an eskimo. So give her a call and learn more about her adventures in Botswana and Zimbabwae, South Africa. Tommorrow, Seraph, Isabell, and maybe Sadie are going to pick up Sue and Dick from the airport. Their plane comes in tonight, but they are staying overnight at the Super 8 hotel.
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I just heard from Mom, Dick and Sadie! They ...
December 27, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
I just heard from Mom, Dick and Sadie! They called this morning while I was scrapping the ice off my car windows. They are doing well, but Sadie said not to mention ice as she was still in summer mode. There's been a slight mix up in the flight schedules and Sadie is getting into Portland tomarrow night at 9pm, and Mom and Dick get in Saturday night - late. We're going to pick up Sadie on Friday, but Mom and Dick will stay at the Super 8 Saturday, and I'll pick them up on Sunday morning.
Hopefully everything goes without a hitch!
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I'm sitting in frount of the computer listeni...
December 24, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
I'm sitting in frount of the computer listening to "nursery rymes are fun to sing" play over and over, as Isa has found out how to play with one of her Christmas presents still in the box! Alex and Carolyn arrived safely, and have bought Isa more musical and talking toys then she'll know what to do with! Currently talking and singing toys, along witht their gift tags are her favorite. I figure it will be just enough to drive Robbie batty. If he shows up at anyones house with blood shot eyes, drool on his chin and a nervous twitch we'll all know why!
Today we're opening gifts with Alex and Carolyn, and then out to dinner, before heading to our church for the annual Christmas concert.
Robbie and I were discussing starting holiday traditions this morning(I can't understand why our families idea of chocolate for breakfast, an orgy of presents, and a trip to the movies before passing out on the couch, doesn't sound appealing to him!). His idea usually involved a snow covered cabin in the mountians with a big tree and lots of presents. My thoughts kept wandering to: making reservations, lugging a tree and decorations to the place, along with all the presents, and franticly cooking away and then wondering where I was going to find a vanilla bean a hundred miles from the nearest town! Oh well, I guess one of us needs to be the dreamer while the other is the realist. Some day we'll figure it all our! Happy Holidays to all and to all a good night!
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Well our house is slowly gearing up for Chris...
December 21, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Well our house is slowly gearing up for Christmas and the arival of Alex & Carolyn. Our list currently reads :clean everything! Buy presents! I figure I'll continue my tradition of Christmas Eve gift shopping again this year. Tis' the season to hussel and bussel!
We're staying afloat at work; both Reta and I are slowly catching up with all the end of year lose ends. We have had very few chaotic moments this time around.
For those who will be around on Christmas day Yayoe and I were talking about fast food/ pizza and a movie. She was going to keep an eye open for what food places will be open. Any good family ( maybe $1.50) movie ideas?
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I received some news from Mom that she asked ...
December 17, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
I received some news from Mom that she asked me to pass on.
This is from Mom
Hi, we are safe and sound. We will be able to get and send e-mail tomarrow morning \Bots time, so if you e-mail today your time, I will get it and respond so that you will have a response Tuesday morning.
This is a beautiful county - lush and green with the summer rain. We are glad to get our of South Africa - apartheid is alove and well, albeit slightly glossed over. It is very strange to have one group of people be totally servile. We drove through downtown Johannesburg late Saturday afternoon, which was deserted except for a few black people with fruit stands, and tons and tons of garbage. We also drove through a predominately black market area, which looked like we envision cities of the future, with garbage and debris everywhere. On the other hand, white people are clearly terrified most of the time. Lots of fences and security forces.
I will try to check my e-mail.
Good thoughts to all
Fortunately, we only got lost a few times and only for short periods; but, we did manage to find the places that we didn't intend to - like Soweto and the above mintioned Pretoria market
Love
Dick & OM
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Hey Seraph here- Quick updates
December 03, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 Hey Seraph here- Quick updates. Robbie's 29th Birthday was on Saterday. On top of Harry Potter figures he also got a ticket to the Civil War game! He and the boys went off and got soaked through. After a nice dinner at his mom's we went and soaked in the hot tub to see if he could get any feeling back in his toes!
Sunday we had folks over for cake and ice cream, and then went off to the Lutherin Church Christmas concert with Hanni. Isa loved the music, especially the hand bells.
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Happy Thanksgiving!!! We finally have our co...
November 23, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 Happy Thanksgiving!!! We finally have our computer hooked up at home, thanks to the diligence of Adam. I hope this means we'll be posting more often.
I had my birthday on the 10th, which started with a surprise brunch and a day of shopping! A real luxury these days. Everyone was over this afternoon for treats and turkey, including Charles and Judy, who flew in from Iowa today! We also had a mini birthday for Sam (the big three), who promptly went and spent the evening in the corner playing with his new race track.
Our family room was semi-completed for Turkey Day-allergy free for at least one day! We still have a good bit of finishing, but the pressure has eased a bit.
We're finally healthly again. Isa's crawling, standing some, waving (occasionally), eating anything, dancing all the time, and generally being cheerful.
We went and saw Harry Potter. It was really good, but Robbie informed me that there were some parts that were different from the book! I think he and Jenny are going to plan a trip to see it again.
Now we've got Robbie's birthday next weekend, so be prepared for a call from me putting on something at the last minute!
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I haven't posted forever with good and not-so...
November 07, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
I haven't posted forever with good and not-so-good excuses. We still haven't done the final hook up of the internet onto our computer-mostly lazieness on our part. Also we have hardly been home this last mont. There was our anniversary trip to the coast, a quick trip to Ashland and a Law Conference at the coast. This week Isa and I got hit pretty hard with colds. Robbie has held out so far, but I think his will is starting to crumble. Mostly we've been getting into bed around 6:30pm and not doing much of anything else.
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A little tired today
October 18, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
A little tired today. Isa and I have been sneezing and I'm hoping that we're not coming down with something. This weeks been crazy at work, but very educational. Robbie's actually started his story, so Isa and I have been helping our with dramatic reenactments each night!
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Quick note to let everyone know that Isa cut ...
October 15, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Quick note to let everyone know that Isa cut her two bottom teeth last night -- and boy are they sharp! She won't let us see much yet, but we're hoping this means happier days!
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Happy Aniversery to us! It's been four years...
October 15, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Happy Aniversery to us! It's been four years, and we figure we've made it through the first round of really crapy years. Now were into the challenging crapy years, then the midlife crisis crapy years, and maybe if we're really lucky on to the really great golden (but too tired to care) years! Right now we just dream of retireing and convirting the kids rooms in to libraries and craft centers! Actually, we still feel the newly wedded bliss on a daily baises and feel blessed to have found each other.
We spent Saturday night at the coast in a wonderful B&B.
Isa stayed with Hanni across the street in a little hotel. Amazingly we all survived, and had a great time with some much needed R&R. (THank you to Mom and Dick for watching Ducky) This afternoon we had a picnic with Dad, Yayoe, Dorothy, Jenny, Dez, Jordon, and briefly Adam, Jamie and Sam. (Our family can't grow much more!) Best wishes to Dorothy on her flight home!
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Well it's October and we're trying to think o...
October 05, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Well it's October and we're trying to think of a creative Halloween costume for Isa. Any ideas? We've got everything from a pumkin to an fairy princess! If you haven't already checked out the pictures of our newest cousins (on Robbie's side) do so on Alex and Carolyn's page -- what a cutie! Isa's crawling and bonking her head daily. I'm pretty sure she'd rather be walking. Robbie and I are excited to trick-or-treat and claim candy in her name. The fall has always been a favorite time for us.
We're muling over the idea of Thanksgiving at our house again. Robbie's brother Charles and his wife Judy will be coming for the holiday! Let me know what everyone already has planed so I can figure out what we're doing.
PS We love you Sadie!!!!
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Isa's slowly getting the hang of crawling, bu...
September 26, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Isa's slowly getting the hang of crawling, but I still think she'd rather be running! Robbie and Isa had a play date with Sam today while Jamie got her hair cut. They played Star Wars, Legos and several games of hide-and-seek! My back is feeling much better. Thank you for all the calls and e-mails.
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Milestone Moment! Today Isabell crawled
September 20, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Milestone Moment! Today Isabell crawled. She's still shakey at it, and prefers to scoot and pull herself up, but we're getting there!
Ahh.. the miricle of drugs! I've spent Monday and Tuesday pretty much on my back while my back muscles were spasming away. It reminded me far to much of labor, but with no end in sight. The doctor gave my some meds though and the relief has been tremendous. An added bonus is that it's dopeing up Isa some too! It certianly helps with teething!
A big HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Jamie!!!! We love you!!
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As Adam mentioned, Mom may be stuck in LA for...
September 15, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 As Adam mentioned, Mom may be stuck in LA for awhile. On the work frount this is very frusterating. As Adam said LA is worse than London, perticularly because I could almost reach Mom in London. I guess a few more days of holding down the fort won't be to bad. Althougth if I hear one more time that I need to go to law school I think I'll just point to these last few weeks for the reason I shouldn't!
I'm still not sure if we're going to go down to the Celebration today. The parade was fun this morning. I think all the kidos (and grown ups alike) enjoyed a little laughter (dancing pigs, cows, and chickens) after such a difficult week.
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I don't think tomarrow can come fast enough f...
September 14, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 I don't think tomarrow can come fast enough for me. Now that I'm working for Mom my days become terribly empty without her presence. Also I think Isa is starting to miss her! We are heading down to the vigil on the mall tonight at 7pm, and to the Celebration Parade tomarrow morning. If anyone wants to get together and go as a group let me know. I'm feeling the need to go out and show my support, and help out, where ever I may be needed.
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As a response to Adam's posting I called Sara...
September 14, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
As a response to Adam's posting I called Sara Spettel's family here in Eugene. They said she was doing fine. If anyone else talks to Sadie please let her know. It feels like there continues to be someone I forgot to make sure is accounted for. Right now I just can't wait until Mom gets back. I hope she said a really good good-byr to everyone in England, because it might be a long time before I let her out of my sight again!
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we were relieved to hear that Sue was still i...
September 12, 2001 by Robbie in Cortez
we were relieved to hear that Sue was still in England and we can't wait until they are back home. Seraph was contacted by Pitzer college and told her that the students on the foreign programs were worried about their parents. Seraph sent a message to Sadie saying that everything is O.K. here. Hopefully we will hear from Sadie soon. We can only pray for those in New York City, the airplane victims, and the victims of the Pentagon.
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Adam's keeping everyone abreast of the chaos ...
September 11, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Adam's keeping everyone abreast of the chaos on the family page, and I don't have much to add. Our church is having a prayer service tonight at 7:00pm for anyone interested. Robbie, Isa and I will probably go. Adam and Jenny were talking about getting everyone together tonight, I'll call people between 4 and 5 if I don't hear anything sooner.
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Robbie and Isa had a close call last Wednesday
September 09, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Robbie and Isa had a close call last Wednesday. While stopped at a light they had a semi truck pull up beside them, but the brakes on the trailer failed and the truck nearly lost its load ( a large back hoe) on to our car. Some chains and debris hit our car and dented up the drivers side doors and broke out the window on the back door. Some glass got into Isa's car seat, but luckily neither of them were hurt. Now we're having to deal with getting the car fixed, insurance agencies and all thae other fun stuff that comes with these things. I told Robbie that this probably cost him a few of his nine lives! Darren starts work at our house this week, and we're still trying to get some last stuff cleaned up for him!
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Well this is most certianly our Labor Day wee...
September 03, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Well this is most certianly our Labor Day weekend! Yesterday we organized and cleaned the inside of the house. Last night we went to play with Destin and Jordan while Jenny and Darren got to be free for awhile. Today we cleaned out the garage. Most of the time though we were day dreaming about lighting it on fire! We now have a huge pile of debris to haul to the dump (anyone want to help?). Tomarrow it's yard work. Huge hugs and kisses go out to Hunni for watching Isa today. Have we mentioned before that we LOVE having family around?! Sending good thoughts to all the family that's traveling:Mom, Yayoe, Sadie, and Grandpa Steane; and welcome home Jamie and Sam!
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ISA TOOK A BOTTLE!!!! For those of you who h...
September 01, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
ISA TOOK A BOTTLE!!!! For those of you who have followed our saga, you know what an accomplishment this is. At dinner tonight Isa was drinking out of her tippy cup, and I commented on how good she was getting at sucking out the water. I then said "lets try a bottle." Sure enough, two minutes latter she was sucking away like a little cow! This may be another one of her passing phases but it may also be a good sign. She also had a boil on her hand this morning. But the doctor said that unless they spread all over then not to worry.
Last weekend we got Hanni moved over. Now we just have to get her hooked to the web so she can be apart of the Family Site. Next week I start full time at mom's, and on top of watching Isa, Robbie's also looking into some mineral for Alex (my comprehension only goes that far!). We're looking forward to the long weekend. Lots of house work though.
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We had a wonderful time in Portland yesterday...
August 24, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
We had a wonderful time in Portland yesterday! We went to our favorite German Bakery, to Powell's (of course), and shopping! Well, mostly window shopping in stores we dream about buying in! We all met Raven and Nina at a little Senagelees resturaunt for dinner. It was right across from the Farmers Market so we had live music with dinner. Isa was wonderful which made the trip very fun. Now we're off to Sunriver this morning to help Hanni move. It's just good that our travel times coinside with Isa's nap schedual!
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FREEDOM!!! I finished my last day at EEI today
August 18, 2001 by Robbie in Cortez
FREEDOM!!! I finished my last day at EEI today. I don't think it has hit me just yet. It probably won't hit me until school starts again.
Today they threw a party for me, with all of the classes coming up to the gym to say goodbye. A few of the grade school kids made up a dance for me, with two boys singing along with the song. It was pretty cool. The preschool kids made me a card with personal pictures, and most of the grade school kids made me a card. Some of the parents gave me gift certificates to a couple of resteraunts ( I love those parents). Pat, my boss, gave a Boarder's. I thought it wouldn't effect me much, but I ended up with tears in my eyes certificate.
Know it is off to new challenges. Wish me luck.
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It feels like the calm before the storm
August 09, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 It feels like the calm before the storm. Life is waiting quietly for the next baby to arrive. Robbie gave his two week notice at EEI. His last day is next Friday. He's feeling a mix of saddness and pure joy. I on the other hand am having a blast working, even when there are clients that act like Eyore!
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Good News! After a year of waiting Hanni sol...
August 05, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 Good News! After a year of waiting Hanni sold her house! The buyers are a couple from Portland who need to reinvest some money within 180 days. So they made a cash offer for the asking price! Robbie and I are--as I type-- searching for apartments, as she has to move by the end of the month. Robbie is seriously thinking about leaving EEI and staying home with Isabell. I told him that he could get together with Jenny and Jamie and complain about their working spouses who "just don't understand." Dispite the hard work involved, he actually seems pretty psyched about the idea. I guess after 40 kidos a day, one is a breeze! Our life is busy, but mostly we are just waiting (a bit impatiantly) for baby Banks to be born!
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Well I had everyone at work logged on to the ...
July 26, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Well I had everyone at work logged on to the web site today. Just don't tell Mom as she was out of the office at the time! Work has been good, even though Mom has been suckering me into working over at McMillan a lot this week. After a week home with Isabell, Robbie was ready to quite and be a stay-at-home dad. Who knows--maybe someday!
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It's been forever since we last posted, as ou...
July 17, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 It's been forever since we last posted, as our lives have gotten pogressivly busier these days. Isa is doing great at school--though they're still working out some bugs with her feeding schedual. I've really enjoyed working again. It's nice to be starting part time though, it's giving us all time to adjust. This week Robbie and Isa are home. Not much of a vacation for Robbie I'm afraid, but they seem to be having fun. Our yard is progressing. The drive way is still filled with mulch and dirt, and our goal is to have it nice for the shower on Saturday. Right now Robbie dumps the mulch and Isa (in the frount carrier) and I spread it. It's slow, but that's how everything goes with a 6 month old!
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Today is our last stay at home day! I'm hopi...
June 29, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 Today is our last stay at home day! I'm hoping to fill it with all the mundaine things I know I'll be missing by next week--dishes, laundry, walks and baths! I am still experiancing that working mom/ child in day care nervousness. Will she cry all day? Will I cry all day? Will she be abducted by aliens on the playground? Sigh...the worries of a parent!
zzzaaaaaamnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn----added by Isa
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We had a great weekend playing with as little...
June 25, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
We had a great weekend playing with as little work as possible! Hanni came over and we went to Saturday market, went to tea, ran errands, did a little yard work and saw a movie! We love family!! This is my last week home with Isa before I head back to work. I'm both excited (especially since it will probably require a shopping trip to buy new clothes) and nervous. It will probably be good for both of us, but I may be a mess for a week or so.
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We've had a fun week of playing and painting!...
June 22, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
We've had a fun week of playing and painting!Isabell's room is still unfinished, but I'm bound and determined to have baby Banks' room done! We hid inside today--out of the sun. I'm hoping it cools off a bit tonight, so we can eat outside. Hanni is coming over this weekend, and hopefully I can get a little farther with the yard stuff!
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Happy Father's Day! Robbie ran off with Darr...
June 17, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Happy Father's Day! Robbie ran off with Darren this morning to play golf. I hope they have a chance to unwind a bit, but that's not vary likely when you're trying to get that darn ball into that little hole in the ground!
The last few days have been very exciting. Thursday night Sadie watched Isa while we went to the retirement party of one of Robbie's co-workers. Friday night was Dad's surprise retirement party. We ducked out early (as new parents tend to do), and I had to smile at the woman who sighed at us and said "I'm glad my kids are grown!" Yesterday we helped Adam, Jamie and Sam move into their new house. Isa had a blast visiting with everyone. So much so that she went to bed at 5:30pm! Today we're just kicking back while the dad's play.
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Happy Birthday to Sadie!! Great fun was had ...
June 10, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 Happy Birthday to Sadie!! Great fun was had by all at Mom and Dick's this morning. There was a yummy birthday brunch for Sadie, with plenty of tame gifts and less then perfect waffels! Sadie and I made one of her famouse sorbet bombes for tomarrows dessert aution. You can all come by and bid if you'd like--after church (11ish).
This afternoon we lazed around, and Isa went for a nap at 4:30pm that turned into bedtime! Hopefully that means we can snuggel up and actually watch and entire movie.
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I've been having creative distress lately
June 07, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 I've been having creative distress lately. The need to do anything hands one or crafty...but no time or oppertunity! Today I re-potted a plant and made a small blanket for Isa's bed(out of an old curtin). But I can only do things that take ten minutes or a babysitter! Our yard has been finished-down to the last tubber-on paper that is! O- the joys of having a four month old! (Those of you with older kiddos please don't comment. I like to pretent that it will get easier!)
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Robbie played hookie today and we took Isa to...
June 05, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Robbie played hookie today and we took Isa to the coast for the first time. We went up to Heceta Head lighthouse and to Lovejoy's for tea. A fun time was had by all. If any one from EEI is reading this, Robbie really is lying on the floor quite ill!
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It's raining outside and Robbie's making choc...
June 03, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
It's raining outside and Robbie's making chocolate chip cookies. It feels a lot like spring, not summer! This baking project is a big step for Robbie. The last time he made cookies he confused the Teaspoon and the Tablespoon...well lets say it wasn't Tollhouse! This afternoon our youth group is taking in cans we've collected for care packages for the church mission project. Next weekend we're holding a dessert action to raise money for camp scholarships. Thanks mom for your contribution, everyone was thrilled!
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Sadie's home!!! As soon as I could I stole h...
May 29, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 Sadie's home!!! As soon as I could I stole her away and brought her home. She came over to keep me company this morning. Our house feels very quiet after all the hustle and bussel of the weekend. Again thank you to Adam for the extra backbone on Sunday, and to Mom and Dick for the tools and super wonderful workers! Soon our backyard will be ready for baby showers and family BBQues!
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This morning Adam came by and helped with the...
May 28, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
This morning Adam came by and helped with the back yard. Mom sent over her two man Mexican crew to help too. Robbie and I were ready to throw our selves at their feet and decalre our love when they left. For those of you who remember our yard as this over grown mess, you will be quite surprised! Hanni has been here since yesterday watching Isa Ryn. We love her forever for all the help!!! The only downfall is that every inch of my body hurts.
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A fun time was had by all yesterday
May 24, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
A fun time was had by all yesterday. We saw Jenny, Darren, and Destin off at the airport. Poor Destin was ready to jump out of his skin with excitement! In the afternoon Isa and I went to Adam and Jamie's to hang out with Sam while Jamie cleaned and packed. I told Sam about Destin going to Disneyland, and we talked about who lived there. He rattled of several Disney characters, and when I asked who else he said "Grandma Sue!" Well Mom, maybe you can live with Goofy! The warm weather has made nights a bit unfomfortable. I think it's time to invest in some fans!
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Isabell and I have a small case of cabin feve...
May 23, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Isabell and I have a small case of cabin fever right now. The hot weather has kept us in all day, and we are running out of fun things to do. Robbie did discover today that Isa is tickelish, so I've been having loads of fun making her laugh like crazy. It's nice to know that I don't have to worry about her peeing her pants! The rest of this week we get to play with Sam while Adam and Jamie get the house paked, cleaned, and organized. I hope it will be a nice change for us.
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We had a great time at Adam and Jamie's new h...
May 20, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 We had a great time at Adam and Jamie's new house (almost) yesterday. What a beauty! Robbie and I had to bite back a bit of jelousy when we came home to only one bathroom. Thank you mom for babysitting. You and Isa must have had a good time because she pooped out really quickly last night. Next weekend we are tackeling our yard again. Hanni is coming down to watch Isabell while Robbie and I get dirty and sweaty. O-the joys of home ownership!
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Thank you to everyone who came for Mother's Day
May 14, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Thank you to everyone who came for Mother's Day. We had a lot of fun seeing you all! Remember our house can always be booked for your next family function. The more the marrier!!
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Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Exciting news in the life...
May 13, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Exciting news in the life of a friend! Raven e-mailed me from Senegal to tell me that she and her boyfriend Cheikh will be getting married here next November! Be prepared for the cross-cultural event of the year!
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May is here! The sun has felt wonderful today
May 03, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 May is here! The sun has felt wonderful today. We all slept in today (6:30!), and Robbie took Isa for an AM walk so I could sleep a little more. It was wonderful. Although I did miss my swimming because of it, so Isa and I are off for an extra long walk this afternoon. I've been in a giddy "I love my family" mood lately, do if you need me to do anything now is probably the time to ask!
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What a fun and exciting weekend! While Robbi...
April 23, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 What a fun and exciting weekend! While Robbie was at his conference on Saturday Isabell and I played with Jenny, Darren, and Destin. We went to Saturday Market and a carnival at Gateway Mall. Isabell had a lot of fun watching all the people, and hearing all the noises! Those Banks' sure have fun figured out! Isabell was wiped out and spent most of Sunday sleeping or being grumpy. Thank you to Mom and Dick for watching her last night. It was fun to get out and talk to adults (sort of)! To mark her three month birthday Isa rolled over for Grandma and Gedu! We also got a call from Raven! Very exciting to her from her all the way from Dakar. She'll be back July 12th (yippy!!).
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Robbie's off at a confrerence today, so Isa R...
April 21, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Robbie's off at a confrerence today, so Isa Ryn and I are on our own. We may go and play with her cousin Destin later. Not having Rob around sure does make me appreciate him all the more!
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I just wanted to say how nice it was to have ...
April 16, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
I just wanted to say how nice it was to have everyone over for Easter tea! Not only is it fun to see you all, but it's a great reason to get the house cleaned up!
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I will survive! Well, that was the mentality...
April 12, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 I will survive! Well, that was the mentality in our house the past few days. Isa is getting over the crud Robbie had last week, but only after two really miserable days. We too our gearing up for Easter. At church they've roped us into helping out again (though we really don't object much). I'm reading at Friday evenings Good Friday service, and Robbie's reading the part of Jesus in Jesus Christ Supperstar on Sunday. Service is at 9:30am, and all our invited! Isabell is getting cuter and bigger every day. I'm already starting a box of out grown clothes!
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Our news will start to sound like Adam and Ja...
April 06, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Our news will start to sound like Adam and Jamie's! There is sickness in our house!! Robbie has a pretty yucky case of the flu, but the doctor doesn't think it's strep. So far Isa and I have avoided it, but then again I won't let Robbie even breath on us! Isa is dealing with her first case of diaper rash by crying whenever anythng touches her butt, leaving me to feel like bad mother of the year. The "What to expect..." book says that the best way to cure diaper rash is to prevent it from ever starting. Duhhhh, even I could have writtin that advise.
Anyway, thank you Mom and Dick for babysitting last night. We feel much refreshed.
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We made it back! After returning from Tuscon...
April 02, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
We made it back! After returning from Tuscon on Thursday we went to Sunriver over the weekend. First we had to run to the doctors on Friday because Isa has a minor eye infection and blocked tear duct. Fortunatly it doesn't bother her! We're trying to settle back into life, by catching up on laundry and other household chores. Abig thank you to Mom and Dick for watching Ducky and fixing our sink (do you need anything besides you storm windows put up forever?). I'm taking Adam's lead and reading the Lord of the Rings (paragraph at a time - it's a bit slow).
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Well, we made it to Tuscon! Isabell did reall...
March 26, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 Well, we made it to Tuscon! Isabell did really well on the planes. The only time she cried was on the last one from Seatle to Tuscon. But it wasn't ears, just her normal sleepy time. We didn't get to sleep until after minight (AZ time), so today we're taking it easy. The weather is beautiful and all the deasert flowers are blooming! Robbie and Alex are off golfing, and Carolyn, Isa and I are hanging out! We'll try to get some pictures up for you all.
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Well, the Cortez family is off to Arizona on ...
March 23, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Well, the Cortez family is off to Arizona on Saturday, and we are actually ready! Packing has been a very slow process, and we'll not look nearly as glamoruos as in past years. O-well, Isabell's cuteness should make up for it. If we're really organized will try to post from Tuscon. Wish us luck!
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EEI had there spring show last night, and the...
March 16, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
EEI had there spring show last night, and the kids were great! Everyone kept asking where Isa was, but thanks to Dad and Yayoe babysitting, we were actually able to watch the preformances! I am ever thankful for family! There was no school in the 4J district, so Robbie was off to work early this morning for a full day of daycare. To top it off, he's starting a youth group at our church (from scratch, with about 8 kids of all ages)! That's my busy and talented husband for you!
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Well the sun returned yesterday, and Isa and ...
March 09, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 Well the sun returned yesterday, and Isa and I awoke snot-free! I want to send a big THANK YOU out to Yayoe for helping win the binky and bottle war. It's amazing how they have helped us get a little of a schedual going. We're gearing up for our trip to Arizona at the end of the month. Any tips for traveling with small children would be appreciated! Tomarrow were having the rest of the yard/tree work done. Then maybe we can start on the fun stuff!
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Thanks to Adam for the last posting
March 02, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Thanks to Adam for the last posting. We actually had not looked ourselves. There was such neet info that we made a copy for Isabell's baby book. Isa continues to grow by leaps and bounds, and I've started a mini journal of her daily activities. Right now it reads a lot like "ate, pooped, slept for 10 min." I'm hoping it will help me to see paterns in her day (none yet).
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Well, I was poking around our company's Inter...
March 01, 2001 by Adam in Cortez
 Well, I was poking around our company's Internet site today and I realized I'd never looked up Isabell's "baby @lbum" entry.
Every newborn gets a picture and a little writeup if they're born at the hospital I work with. I went ahead and copied the information and posted it right here.
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Well, Isabell and I are trudging through our ...
February 25, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Well, Isabell and I are trudging through our colds. The days are much better than the nights, so there is little sleep around here. Robbie took the baby to church with him this morning (which for the first time she slept through!)and let me stay home and sleep.
We are continuing to join the adult world. We bought a 98 Subaru forester yesterday. We now own a car that we didn't own in college! I'm sure we'll run around showing it off for a few weeks until it starts to look "lived in."
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When Seraph and Isabell visited last week, I ...
February 23, 2001 by Adam in Cortez
 When Seraph and Isabell visited last week, I got a minute or so of the two on video. I finally got around to putting them in the movie section. Just a warning - it's a blatant plug for this website.
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well, isabell and i woke up with little colds...
February 22, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
well, isabell and i woke up with little colds this morning. i have a sore throat and she's sneezing real snot (not just baby guk) and coughing some. Nothing serious though. i'm also learning how to nurse and type at the same time! we're continuing to enjoy the challenges of parenthood, but take note that now that isabell has figured out the bottle thing you are all signed up to babysit!
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This is for all you people who can't get enou...
February 19, 2001 by Adam in Cortez
 This is for all you people who can't get enough of Isabell news. We ended up seeing them last night, thougn Isabell slept through the whole time. Evidently this was a rare occurrence, as Seraph and Robbie were quite happy about it. Poor Robbie looked like he had been repeatedly dropped on his head. Evidently he's not used to the continuous screaming at two in the morning. Isabell herself seems to be doing well. Healthy and happy most of the time.
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Seraph and Isabell came to visit
February 15, 2001 by Adam in Cortez
 Seraph and Isabell came to visit. They're working on printing up baby announcements and visit me while I'm alone on Valentine's day. I also got the latest scoop on the new baby:
Isabell smiles after filling her diaper. She likes to play with the cat's soft fur and look out the window by her changing table. Seraph and Robbie took her in the Snugglie for a walk, which she really enjoyed. Isabell is also a big fan of baths, loves to bounce, and is extremely alert.
We even have Isabell's first recorded girgling noises.
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My words can not compair to the eloquence of ...
February 10, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
My words can not compair to the eloquence of Sadie's, in regards to Franklin, but my heart is similarly moved. The death of such a great man makes me stop and reevaluate myself, as well as to look around me and wonder how I could tolerate the passing of my partner, parent or sibling. As saddened as I am, I know that Dorothy's pain must be the greatest. But, so must the joys! To have spent 58 years of marriage creating happy memories can not be compaired. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who knew and loved Franklin.
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I talked to Robbie and Seraph today
February 03, 2001 by Adam in Cortez
 I talked to Robbie and Seraph today. Isabell is doing well - she actually slept for six hours straight last night. Seraph told me that they basically live on their bed, watching movies all day long. Sadly, Robbie is back to work on Monday, going from watching a single kid to twenty or more. Seraph is doing amazingly well, as if she does this sort of thing all the time.
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Welcome to the family Isabell! With all of th...
January 26, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
 Welcome to the family Isabell! With all of the coverage she's getting I assume she'll have her own web sight soon. We are slowly adjusting to life at home with a new baby. As wonderful as the hospital staff were, it's nice not to have people in poking at us every few hours.
We want to thank everyone near and far for all of your support. Wheather you brought us food, took photos, or made us laugh it was greatly appreciated and made the big event all the more memorable! We love you all lots and lots!!
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Well we all made it through the holidays, and...
January 12, 2001 by Seraph in Cortez
Well we all made it through the holidays, and are now setting our minds to the next century. A REALLY big thank you to Jenny for giving us a wonderful baby shower!!! Many of the people we talked said it was one of the most fun showers they had been to. Also a thank you to Mom and Dick for again taking us all to the opera on New Years. We figure this may be one of the last times we'll see midnight as a fun time for awhile! For those of you following the yet to be heard from baby news: according to the doctor there's still no new news. My due date is next Friday and I also have an appointment on that day. They schedualed an ultra sound to check out her size again. I'm not quite sure where this baby gets her stuborn streek from (be quiet!), but it can't be a good sign! Anyway, we'll keep you posted.
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