It's way past dark and kids are still running crazy through the playground. The rats are too. As I try to watch an episode of the Daily show on my laptop the internet just cust out. What kind of play ground has crappy internet? I get disturbed by pair of rats playing tag almost being run over by two kids playing tag. Weird! Only a few days left until our next adventure. What the heck bird or insect makes that clicking sound? I guess I will miss this place. I know the boys will. Jon is playing telemarketer in the house so good thing there a lot of kids out here.

Wow, I'm not much of a winner but I got lucky this week. On my way home from swimming lessons Thursday, I was listening to the River and heard one of my current favorite songs from Ingrid Michaelson. After the song, they had a contest for those who texted or emailed "Ingrid" could get a private showing before her concert this weekend. I frantically called Jon to text to the number provided. I was driving and didn't want to unlawfully use my cell phone. God forbid risk another car accident. He did it for me, but not much of a response. So they were pretty much written off. Then on Friday afternoon I came to pick him up from work and he just got off of the phone with the radio station. We won! We just got back from hanging out with a rising star. So cool. We got to go see a short free concert by her and she signed my legal burn of her cd. Legal meaning I bought it off of itunes. We got to sit next to the high roller table where a rep from Sony and one of the big radio DJ's from the River. Apparently she hasn't signed with anyone yet. She also just had an appearance on Regis and kelley. Her songs have appeared in commercials and TV shows. She is on her way up. She seemed so down to earth though. She joked with the audience and was so nice and sincere when she signed my cd. We were with about 15 or 20 other folks and she joked around with us, ate pizza, and shared a few stories. I wish her all the luck. If anyone reads this check her out.

Our car passed away yesterday deemed totaled. At least I don't have to nag Jon anymore to take off his John Kerry bumper sticker. Geesh! If anyone knows a good Used car dealer around please let me know. We will probably get another used Corolla but if the Insurance gives us enough I would love a used VW Beetle that does diesel then we can convert to bio-diesel. If I could afford, a newer VW Bus with the camper top is my dream car. Of course they don't make them anymore in this country. A girl can dream!

So I have been trying to hash out this family tree thing to get ready for a Christmas gift for family. Finally I got a hold of my great uncle the last of his generation unfortunately my grandfather being the the last one to go. I really wish I had more time to spend with him. Yuck! Advice to all who have living grandparents and parents ask lots of questions. Pray that he answers his email before the weekend.

I was looking at this census record from England in 1891. They had this category you could check off. Talk about a change of times.

(1) Deaf and Dumb
(2) Blind
(3) Lunatic, Imbecile, or Idiot.

What are you guys? I guess I would have to check off Imbecile but I do have my lunatic days like this morning trying to make gingerbread houses with the kids.

Here is a gingerbread version of our future Camelot house thanks to Aidan with a little help from Mommy.

Wow we had a busy day today. We took our first trip to the MFA today. The boys did better than I expected. We met up with our friends from our Art Coop to explore together. We had 5 boys all 5 and 6. First we stopped by the Museum of Science so I could park for free, feed the children inexpensively, and return some library books. We also stopped by the office to say hello. We had a bit of a stressful lunch though. We walked in line just as a high school group showed up. The boys and I got shoved aside and cut in line at least three times before I yelled at these kids. I'm sorry I'm going to offend some but I need to homeschool rant. Once you been in school say for a good 12 years you'd think these kids have manners not too mention know how to wait in line. Nobody can tell me that socializing in the homeschooled environment is inadequate. My kids are 5 and 6 and they are more mature than a bunch a 14 and 15 year olds from Lexington. Thats enough ranting!

Then we took the train delay free to the MFA. The kids enjoyed walking around with their friends. There was only a few times we needed to remind them to not touch or slow down. By the middle of the trip each kid had a map and they enjoyed so much just trying to see where they were and direct the group to the next room. I think next time we go we should use the maps for a scavenger hunt or something. We definitely need to go geocaching. That was brought up as a possibly activity in the spring. The boys enjoyed some of the Egyptian art and of course the mummies. Aidan at one point recounted the story we read in the Story of the World. My brain had long forgotten but was so cool to know he remembered. We also were able to make it to the instrument room. It happened to be closed when we first got there. They also loved the rotunda. When we first walked under, it was so cool to see five small heads shoot up in complete awe. Even though they may have not become art history experts the exposure was worth it.

Then we were back on the train where Nolan serenaded a car full of evening commuters to Charlie and the MTA. The first time even got him a round of applause. I think you can only be five and get away with that. After retrieving the car, picking up Jon, and taking the scenic route to Charlestown, we had a decent dinner with my father-in-law. I think this was one of the first times we talked to him about Camelot without a frightened look on his face.

I am glad to be home, kids in bed, and soon I will be too.
Good Night!