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Dinosaur Monster!

Jeff Herold — 2010-12-09T21:02:26-07:00

What happens when you have an idea to repurpose a foam dinosaur skeleton and then ask dad for lots of tape? You get Dinosaur Monster!

Robot Rock, Mailbox Rigged, and Some Keyboard Conversations

Jeff Herold — 2010-12-07T23:13:38-07:00

I had my afterschool Lego robotics class and got to jam on an electric guitar that one of my students made. After that, I drove to my parents' house and noticed their mailbox was rigged up to a palm tree because the post wore out recently. My parents and I, their neighbor, and friend, all went to downtown Scottsdale to see Jeffrey Siegel, who performs piano works along with background information and stories related to the composer. It was my third time going and I look forward to the next one.

Boatwork

Jeff Herold — 2010-12-05T22:06:31-07:00

Skyler drew and colored some pretty detailed images of very large boats this weekend. He likes to tell stories of every drawing and when you think he's finished, he just adds more!

Setting Up the Tree

Jeff Herold — 2010-12-04T20:19:15-07:00

Skyler is all ready to set up the Christmas tree! He has his work light on and his tough shorts. He is going to work now!

Pirate Bed

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-28T23:06:05-07:00

Renea and I discovered the most amazing children's bedroom, ever! It features a Pirate Bed, made out of pool cues, with custom-made paper flags. It also includes freshly cut palm leaves from front-yard landscaping. Surrounding the wooden bed are numerous pirate-themed toys, which are preparing for battle!

Working in the Front Yard

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-26T16:00:41-07:00

Skyler and I trimmed some shrubs, pulled some weeds, and cut some trees. The weather was great and it was the weekend, so we spent a while enjoying the day and working in the front yard. The most difficult part is cleaning up the mess (and figuring out where to put it).

Thanksgiving 2010

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-25T22:51:18-07:00

We went to Jon and Margo's for Thanksgiving, which is only a half hour away. My parents joined us, as did other friends and family members. Skyler liked playing outside with his cousins and eventually fell asleep next to his cousin, Nathan. I am very thankful that everyone had a nice time visiting and that no "family drama" occurred!

See all the photos (choose the album).

My mom and dad helping out with Thanksgiving dinner.

Pie in the Face, the Trunk, and Age of War

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-24T21:34:38-07:00

As one of the co-advisors for our school's NJHS, I enjoyed filming and the throwing of cream pies in students' faces (and hair). It was for a fundraiser to send money for juvenile diabetes research. It was a good end to the school day before Thanksgiving. Later on, I put Skyler in the trunk (he tried to make a sad face). Later on, we played one of our favorite online video games, Age of War. He likes to sit on my lap and help me crush the enemies.

Where is the Ice Cream Man?

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-20T21:23:04-07:00

My dad came over after Skyler's tumbling class and after he left, Skyler and I were playing in the backyard when we heard the neighborhood ice cream man's truck, or so we thought. We ran to the front and waited impatiently for a while. We missed him, but had fun talking about our favorite ice cream treats.

In-N-Out

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-19T21:41:19-07:00

After our new Friday night swim lessons, I took Skyler to In-N-Out for a cheeseburger and fries. He really loved it and wants to go again real soon. I know he doesn't remember, but the last time we were at an In-N-Out was in Las Vegas a few years ago.

Dynamite Park

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-17T21:34:11-07:00

Skyler and I took the dogs down to the park on Dynamite Boulevard, at the entrance to our neighborhood. He teased Storm and Gambit with his candy, but I defended them by getting Skyler back! The weather is so nice right now and we took advantage of it.

Josh is Out!

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-16T22:12:10-07:00

They finally released Josh. He wanted me to take some photos of his injuries, even though they were starting to heal. His ear was looking good, too, though the doctors say he might have some hearing loss. The photos below show his back and both arms.

Pumpkin Growing

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-14T22:05:45-07:00

Not to forget the month of October and all the pumpkins it entails, Skyler brought home a pumpkin seed to be planted. We placed it in a plastic container and gave it some water and sun. It has a popsicle stick with the words "pumpkin" and "Skyler". He is very proud of his mini garden.

Star Wars Kids

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-13T21:59:41-07:00

I visited Josh again and he seems to be doing better. He ate and talked a little. The doctors say he might be in the hospital a couple more days. On the way home, I picked up Skyler form Nick and Quinn's. A neighbor kid joined them for a warrior pose with Star Wars lightsabers. I just had to take a photo!

Mummy Fort

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-12T21:53:16-07:00

More fort fun! My mom was in Michigan, so just my dad and brother came over for some food, fort, and freakin' cold water. The guys went in the heated jacuzzi, but Skyler had fun scooping out the cold pool water and pouring it on our backs! I think some of us even ended up jumping in the pool for a very, very short time.

My dad and Skyler started off the evening with the mummy (my bass guitar and case).

Longboarding

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-10T23:35:36-07:00

When I entered the main office of our school this morning, my assistant principal approached me and asked if I had her from Renea. My cellphone was off and I immediately started to worry. She told me that Renea was on her way to a hospital to be with Josh, who had fallen off his longboard early this morning, hitting his head on the pavement, and sustaining a concussion.

For the rest of the school day, I was thinking and praying, along with doing my teaching job. After work, I dropped Skyler off at his friends', Nick and Quinn, and went to the hospital to see Josh. He didn't realize I was there, because he was in deep sleep. Renea was okay, but shared with me that today was one of the worst days in her life, especially after seeing lots of blood coming out of Josh's ear. The doctor told her that other, similar accident victims weren't so lucky.

Suddenly, many matters seem to be...trivial. I look forward to Josh's complete recovery and spending more time with him.

Fort Pool Table

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-11T23:30:43-07:00

Skyler and I used the pool table and some blankets to make the coolest fort ever.

Juice boxes and strong cheese sticks were required.

Veterans Day 2010

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-10T23:18:27-07:00

Once again, I made a short Veterans Day DVD for our students to watch, honoring the employees at our school that have served or currently serve our country. It is an honor that I take on and love it!

Milky, Again

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-08T22:32:59-07:00

Skyler got to hang out with Milky the Cow again. This time, he only had him for the night, not the weekend, so he took him to tumbling practice and then shared a burger at home. Below, read the entry we all wrote together about our time spent with Milky.

Milky and Skyler had a great time together. First, Skyler and Milky played outside. Then, it was time to go to gymnastics. Milky loved going on the trampoline with Skyler. After gymnastics, we went to McDonald's and got a Happy meal. Skyler can't wait to have Milky come to our house again.

Milky Rocks!

Skyler

Rainbow Trout Fish Farm

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-07T23:53:20-07:00

I am so stuffed from fish! After making his spiders, I took Skyler on a fishing trip with my dad, brother, and nephew. Nathan and Skyler caught lots of fish and we cooked them all. I think we ate most of 8 or 9 of 'em, plus other sides and snacks. The atmosphere was perfect, including the weather and scenery. I highly recommend visiting the Sedona Rainbow Trout Farm. Skyler had a blast, catching so many fish. He was good at molding the bait. It was nice to have a guys day out and relax by the water.

See all the photos (choose the album).

Playdough Spider

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-07T10:25:18-07:00

This morning, Skyler made the best spider this morning and I just had to snap a photo. You can see him in the background, probably working on another creation.

Carnival and Light the Night

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-06T23:37:57-07:00

Today was a busy day, with Skyler's school carnival and then the annual Light the Night fundraiser walk. Skyler must have been on my shoulders for half the time, but it was good exercise and for a good cause. Some of my students showed up and walked in a giant group, trying to distance themselves form the teachers! When we got home, Spiderman was so tired from waving to fans and climbing webs that he fell asleep as soon as I brought him inside.

See all the photos (choose the album).

Camera Shy

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-05T19:11:53-07:00

Ashley came to visit and I got only one photo where she wasn't hiding from my camera (her usual modus operandi). It wasn't long before she had Skyler doing the same!

Balloon Landing

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-02T18:23:56-07:00

Yesterday, as I was pulling into our driveway after work, I saw a hot air balloon that appeared to be a few seconds from crashing into our house or a nearby house. I rushed inside and had Skyler and Renea go out into the backyard, where we witnessed a balloon landing a few feet behind our brick wall. It was within inches to a tall saguaro and a mesquite tree! There were a few other balloons that landed much farther away.

We see them in the air behind our house almost every single day, but this is the first time I saw one land behind us. This reminded me of the time a balloon took off or landed (or both) right behind our house in Michigan in the early 80s.

See all the photos (choose the album).

Soccer 2010

Jeff Herold — 2010-11-01T18:15:56-07:00

We finished our fall 2010 soccer season. I am the head coach and have a no-cut co-ed middle school (7th and 8th grade) team that scrimmages and plays a couple of fun games with other schools/organizations. There aren't any other soccer teams in our district at the middle school level, so we don't get to play many teams, but the players always have fun and it's a great experience for students who don't normally join a sports team in school.

Notice how rusty our goal is! We actually play far behind us, at the high school. We practiced/played a couple times per week and it was good for me to burn some calories off and make a little extra money. My assistant coaches were very helpful this year and took orders from me very well! Ha ha!

Halloween 2010

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-31T23:07:09-07:00

Halloween was so much fun with lots of candy acquired and many friends around. I like our annual tradition of hanging out with our friends, Mark and Jenny, and their family (and more friends). It is a great experience each year and I look forward to next Halloween, where I plan on making Renea dress up!

See all the photos (choose the album).

Killers, International

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-30T23:07:53-07:00

Renea planned a really fun murder mystery party for employees and we hosted it at our house. Everyone had to dress their part and act according to their script or character profile. There were a couple dozen people who had to listen to scenes and guess the killer and choose the best-dressed. Everyone had a great time and I liked being the "Top Gun", boss of the crime organization. I spent an hour at Savers for my outfit and wish I could dress like this more often.

Kindergarten Halloween

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-29T21:44:18-07:00

Halloween party at school! Ok, it was probably called "Fall Festival" or "Autumn Celebration", but Skyler still had a good time with his classmates, all wearing fun costumes. His teacher, Mrs. Hoelzen, wore a Batgirl outfit. Skyler, as Spiderman, was glad to partner up to defeat the bad guys.

See all the photos (choose the album).

School Pumpkin

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-25T21:41:06-07:00

Skyler participated in the Kindergarten pumpkin patch and brought home this little guy. He wrote "BOO" all over it!

You Sank My Battleship!

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-24T21:36:25-07:00

Skyler beat me again! We love playing Battleship, though, looking at the photo, I am thinking that he likes to cheat...

Pumpkin Patch 2010

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-23T22:24:40-07:00

Today we went to MacDonald's Ranch in Scottsdale for their pumpkin patch and activities. Skyler took a long time to choose the perfect little pumpkin and was the greatest at lassoing the bull. He reminded us all that horses poop a lot and it smells really bad. He also got to ride his first horse. My dad got attacked by a desert tree during the hay wagon ride. My mom found out that she isn't too quick in a potato sack race. Afterwards, we went to our house to carve a few pumpkins. I ended up baking the seeds - and they were really tasty!

See all the photos (choose the album).

Pirate Night

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-22T22:36:33-07:00

Tonight, we celebrated Pirate Night at Skyler's before-school care. The staff provided puppet shows, games, a pirate-themed inflatable bounce house, arts and crafts, pizza, and lots of fun. Skyler liked taking photos with his friend, Reece. Even though he fell asleep on the way home (with his booty), he managed to wake up for a bit to play with his bathtub/pool pirate boat in the sink.

See all the photos (choose the album).

Itsy Bitsy Spider

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-19T22:11:10-07:00

Skyler brought home a project he made in school: the Itsy Bitsy Spider! It has a straw and plastic ring spider on the left. Very creative!

Later on, he got a microwavable "diet" meal - one of his favorite afterschool snacks (besides candy).

Skyler Home Alone

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-17T22:49:20-07:00

This weekend, we left Skyler home alone (just kidding, he was with Grandma Margo). Renea and I joined some friends in Prescott for a couple days. It was a food-filled weekend (notice how the women are in the kitchen). I also took a bunch of engagement photos of Steve and Ann-Marie. In the third photo, you can just guess what Steve was doing.

Hiking Near Work

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-11T21:08:49-07:00

Renea and I had the day off, so we took Skyler hiking in the desert, down the street from where we work. The weather was great and Skyler enjoyed leading the way. Afterwards, I took him to Toys R Us to exchange his allowance/chore money for some toys. In the second photo, you can see his money cup and the toys.

Creatures of the Desert World

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-09T20:57:34-07:00

My parents and brother spend the afternoon with us and brought Skyler a cool pop-up book, Creatures of the Desert World. They enjoyed reading it with him. Books are a great gift and Skyler is learning letters and words, so it was a perfect gift.

Kindercat Club

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-12T20:42:09-07:00

Recently, Skyler was chosen to be in the Kindercat Club at his school for following classroom rules, demonstrating exemplary behavior, always doing his best work, and being a role model to other kindergarteners. Today, he got to celebrate his achievement with other new members and the school principal, who read the kids a book and served them cookies and milk. Way to go, Skyler!

Backyard Camping

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-08T20:28:23-07:00

Skyler and I pitched a tent, nuked some chicken and spent the afternoon looking at toy catalogs. Doesn't get much better than this!

Hail

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-07T21:07:10-07:00

We don't too many hail storms in Arizona, but when we do, they usually end up in disaster. This time, it happened during Skyler's weekly gymnastics/tumbling class. The ceiling rattled and the windows got pelted with softball-sized balls of hard ice. I didn't notice it until a couple days later, but my convertible top got a nice, little tear, just above the rear window (along with a few dings in the body). You can't repair tops - they must be replaced. Ugh...

I Love Teaching

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-05T21:01:36-07:00

This is why I love being a middle school teacher. I have the best job in the world.

My crazy, 4th hour students.

Josh and Kallie's Breakfast

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-03T23:14:59-07:00

This morning, we went over to Renea's Mom's house for a "birthday breakfast", honoring Josh and his cousin, Kallie. It was a nice change and I was stuffed from all the potatoes and eggs. Those are things I could eat anytime, anywhere!

Halloween Decorations

Jeff Herold — 2010-10-02T22:34:46-07:00

Skyler and his mom spent some time tonight making Halloween decorations for the living room window. By the end of the night, there were dozens of drawings and stickers up. Of course you can't get creative without a little candy inspiration.

Gecko and Mask

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-30T21:41:42-07:00

There was a gecko that actually allowed me to take a bunch of close up photos. No, it wasn't dead! I enjoyed testing out the camera on my first really close shots (almost macro). Shortly after, Skyler showed off his new mask. He is so creative!

Risk

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-27T21:26:49-07:00

Risk - The Game of Global Domination. This and Stratego were two of my favorite games as a kid. Skyler has been interested in setting up the pieces and making up his own game for us to play. I still play similar games online.

Bronson and Amberlin's Birthday

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-26T21:07:01-07:00

After spying on Josh and a couple friends recording a music video, Renea and I took Skyler to celebrate Bronson and Amberlin's birthdays. Notice Bronson's teenage acne! It was about 10 years ago when I first met him and we became friends.

El Diablo de Juego

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-24T23:25:38-07:00

Skyler and I went to one of Josh's indoor soccer games. He plays on a co-ed team on Friday nights. He scored and played pretty tough. They won the game!

This was a good time to test out the indoor settings on my new camera.

See all the photos (choose the album).

Learning Letters

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-22T20:04:31-07:00

Skyler likes to sit on my lap and play video games, watch YouTube videos, and type. He is doing so great at saying his letters. I love to hear him sound out words. When he asks me what something says, I think how wonderful it is to learn new things. He's also a great artist and likes to draw creepy, crawly creatures. Skyler reminds me that no matter how busy I may be or how I am feeling, sharing and learning with him are the greatest joys I can have as a father.

Election Ahead

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-19T19:56:03-07:00

There's been lots of chatter about the upcoming fall elections. Personally, our family has a school district override that effects both Renea and I. I am a news junkie and can't get enough of talk radio and television news. I am looking forward to November and got Jon a very timely and appropriate shirt (I also have one). We also celebrated Renea's grandma's birthday and had a great meal and cake. Just look at all those smiles!

Jumping!

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-14T22:11:40-07:00

Skyler loves his gymnastics and tumbling classes. He spends an hour every Tuesday afternoon and sweats a ton during practice. I drink lots of water just watching him!

We love taking him and watching how he learns to control his body and follow directions. Skyler was born to bounce!

See all the photos (choose the album).

Happy Birthday, Dad

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-11T21:25:58-07:00

We had a nice Saturday afternoon, celebrating my dad's 61st birthday. For the past several years, September 11th always seemed like a depressing day that conflicted with spending time with my father. This time, it was full of smiles and fun.

See all the photos (choose the album).

Ouch

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-07T23:28:19-07:00

I feel bad for the accident this past weekend in Colorado and will remember it forever! However, Skyler is one tough guy and will remember how much fun we had.

Durango in September

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-06T22:35:05-07:00

We had a fun and eventful weekend in Durango, CO to visit Renea's side of the family. I consider them my side, too, because I really enjoy the drive and being with everyone in such a beautiful place. We stayed at the Durango Mountain Resort (aka Purgatory). The room was huge and relatives visited us there on Saturday.

We did a lot of outdoor activities, including the Alpine Slide. On our second trip down, Skyler and I thought it would be a good idea to go faster. We went faster...and ended up crashing about halfway down. We ended up having to go the rest of the way, and once we got back on the track, he wanted to keep going fast! There was a medic waiting for us at the bottom and she helped get us bandaged up.

Later that evening we all played Phase 10 and cause such a major uproar that security had to be called to our room! Actually, we weren't really that loud and it wasn't that late, so I think that the neighbors were just dealing with a recent lack of sleep.

See all the photos (choose the album).

First Shots T2i

Jeff Herold — 2010-09-01T07:55:33-07:00

I got a new camera (Canon Rebel T2i), that I have been salivating over the past few months after borrowing Jon's camera to take 8th grade promotion photos. The school bought it for me to take school photos, but I just had to start practicing with it! These are the first three photos I took, right out of the box.

Notice the two Star Wars lunch bags in the first photo. The second one was purchased after the first one went missing (and before finding it).

Milky the Cow

Jeff Herold — 2010-08-29T19:42:29-07:00

Milky the Cow, the Kindergarten class mascot, got to spend the entire weekend with Skyler! We had a lot of fun events planned, so Milky had a busy three days with our family. He played Mario Kart on Wii, rode in a convertible, went to swim lessons, played skeeball, jumped on big trampolines, rested in the mouth of a giant crocodile, ate pizza, and lots more!

Skyler had to add to the class journal about what he did with Milky. I made a photo collage and sent it with him to school.

See all the photos (choose the album).

First Day of Kindergarten

Jeff Herold — 2010-08-16T22:17:59-07:00

First day of Kindergarten! Skyler was a little anxious, but his mom got to spend some time with him. She took some great photos of Skyler and his soon-to-be-friends. I am very proud of our son and look forward to many more "firsts"!

See all the photos (choose the album).

Apples to Apples

Jeff Herold — 2010-08-14T21:44:16-07:00

My great aunt and uncle from Tucson, visited my parents over the weekend and we all got together for a game of Apples to Apples. We had a lot of fun and conversations during the game! I need to buy this game myself. It's a good game to play with friends and family.

Kindergarten Meet the Teacher Night

Jeff Herold — 2010-08-11T21:19:34-07:00

Tonight, we got to meet Skyler's new kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Hoelzen. He also has an afternoon teacher, Mrs. Muir. He was excited to see his new room and some of his future friends. It was so crowded and we only got to chat with Mrs. Hoelzen briefly, since there were dozens of parents there. We've heard some great things about her, so we are blessed that Skyler gets to be in her class.

What Daddy Sees

Jeff Herold — 2010-08-10T21:15:17-07:00

After his weekly tumbling class, Skyler decided to borrow my glasses to see what it looked like with them. If he leaves them on too much, he might end up needing them!

Skyler and His GFs

Jeff Herold — 2010-08-07T21:10:09-07:00

Skyler, Eliana, and Amelia got together once again this summer to play and hang out. I think he was a little upset at Amelia stealing his pirate hat and me for taking his picture.

Renea and The Kids

Jeff Herold — 2010-08-01T20:07:24-07:00

Mommy and kids got together for a rare group photo today. Afterwards, I took Skyler on a short outing up the street. Our shadows look pretty cool, I think.

Classroom Makeover

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-29T19:59:38-07:00

Renea sneaked into my classroom while I was in New Mexico and decorated my large bulletin board with a crossword puzzle about me. She put an answer key in the corner and a photo of Skyler and I. I love it!

Viva Las Vegas

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-28T21:05:30-07:00

Bill and Janie met up with us in Las Vegas for a couple of days. It was a long drive, but well worth it! I can't wait until the overpass is finished at the Hoover Dam. We all stayed at the Luxor and saw the Tournament of Kings next door, where Skyler did his best Huzzah (utensils were not allowed). Skyler loved seeing all of the lights and the energy on the strip. The last time he was in Vegas was when he was still walking like Frankenstein's monster. It was a nice, quick getaway with family. Bill managed to be very tolerable the entire time!

See all the photos (choose the album).

Skyler Swims for YouTube!

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-24T21:02:24-07:00

Skyler's Girlfriend

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-23T19:23:42-07:00

Skyler and Amelia got to hang out for a while today. They are so creative and love to have lots of fun together!

They got so tired from playing that they decided to take a nap under the pool table.

Spongebob Weekend

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-18T21:12:13-07:00

Nickelodeon had a special weekend of events at the J.W. Marriot resort this weekend, featuring Spongebob and Dora. Skyler got to spend time with his friends, Nick and Quinn and play games and eat lots of food! It was very hot out, but being in or near the pool most of the time was very refreshing. It was a good "staycation".

Swimming With Friends

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-15T19:02:57-07:00

Bronson, Trenton, and Amberlin brought their dad over for some swimming fun. It's been a while since we saw them and it was great to jump in the pool and get cooled off from the hot weather.

Josh also got a new tatoo! And not the temporary kind.

Pair of Angels

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-15T06:55:10-07:00

Skyler and I woke up this morning to clean up the back and found this lovely pair of angels at the bottom of our pool. We love finding geckos on the walls outside, but it's sad to see them in the pool. However, it's much better than seeing a scorpion!

Ski Lift Ride in Flagstaff

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-14T23:32:08-07:00

Skyler and I took my dad up to Flagstaff in the convertible for the day. We wanted to take Skyler on his first ski lift ride. We went up to the top and found it significantly more difficult to breathe! Skyler had fun, but I was nervous because the lift chairs weren't as secure as I would have liked! I had my arm around him most of the way up!

We also got to use the "highest toilet in Arizona" at the top!

Michigan 2010

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-13T21:16:02-07:00

Michigan was a week of having fun with family and friends! We arrived in the afternoon on July 4th to a homemade display of (illegal) fireworks and sparklers.

It was great to see relatives that I haven't seen in a while and friends from high school I haven't seen since...well, high school! Since Facebook has become a place to catch up with people from my past, it was really nice of Sarah and Julie to help plan and arrange a get-together with a couple dozen classmates. It was really like the class reunion we never had (because we never had).

Grandma Barb looked amazing and let us beat her at the many games we played. My favorite was Apples to Apples. She's a good sport, though!

Skyler got to go on his first dune ride at the same place where my family went all the time when I was growing up. We even went to the Detroit Zoo. Lots of fun memories!

I can't wait to go back, but we might wait until after the winter snow melts...

See all the photos (choose the album).

Ninja Diving!

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-03T22:15:59-07:00

Skyler and Amelia enjoyed some exciting jumping and diving into the pool this weekend. Summer is so much fun!

I Love Handprints

Jeff Herold — 2010-07-02T21:18:51-07:00

Skyler likes to claim his territory in the backseat of the convertible.

How could I get mad? I actually smiled when Renea pointed these out to me.

Sometimes, I just love to see handprints like this...

Classroom Renovation

Jeff Herold — 2010-06-25T21:07:25-07:00

This summer, my classroom is being renovated. It looks like a terrible mess right now, but I am starting to envision the possibilities! How often do teachers get to do this?

Family Creation Challenge

Jeff Herold — 2010-06-19T20:58:50-07:00

Today, I took Skyler to a Lego event I was looking forward to for a few days! Skyler spent a few minutes creating a Lego masterpiece (army airplanes, see photo) and Toys R Us let us keep everything (up to a certain number of pieces). It was fun and we went home to play with his creations some more.

New Mexico Training

Jeff Herold — 2010-06-18T22:17:52-07:00

I spent that last two weeks training in Las Cruses, New Mexico at New Mexico State University. My school sent me there to learn about S.T.E.M. and Gateway to Technology. The program I was learning is for middle school level education and I will be teaching science and technology classes this next school year. It was a busy couple of weeks and we had lots of homework, but it was actually really fun.

They put me in a nice hotel and the training center was a short commute. The weather was exactly like Phoenix, so it wasn't a "break from the heat"!

The hardest part was being away from home so long.

Ashley Visits!

Jeff Herold — 2010-06-04T21:12:18-07:00

Ashley made her usual surprise, but always welcomed visit today form Yuma. Skyler laughed when she and her mom tried to avoid the camera.

First Tumbling Lesson and a Party

Jeff Herold — 2010-06-01T23:00:18-07:00

Skyler had his first gymnastics/tumbling lesson today at Desert Tumbling, a newer place for kids to get that energy out! The owners, Paul and Wendy, are very nice and have a great atmosphere for teaching basic tumbling skills. Skyler loved his first lesson and I liked that it was FREE! This is a good weekly class, in addition to his swimming lessons at Hubbard.

After the long, but super lesson, we took Skyler to Robin's house for a staff party. Darci had fun putting Skyler head-first into the beanbag game. He was wiped out and fell asleep on the way home.

Train Park Fun

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-30T20:04:45-07:00

We met my parents at the McCormick-Stillman Ranch Railroad Park again. It was a nice, sunny afternoon. It is a very fun park and has lots of entertainment!

Skyler Catches a Big Lizard!

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-25T13:42:54-07:00

Skyler and daddy caught this gecko in our pool this afternoon. Yikes!

Mr. Smith Retires

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-25T12:26:11-07:00

Greg Smith, fellow teacher and friend, finally retired from Hillcrest Middle School. This is footage taken from his party at the end of the school year in May 2010.

Email to Miss Sara

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-26T20:02:03-07:00

Last night, Skyler and I were talking about school and he cried and said "I want to be four years tall and not five years tall, so I can be in Miss Sara's class again."

This morning, he asked "Can I visit Miss Sara's class next year?".

That is a testament of your impact!

Thanks again for two great years,

Jeff

Her reply:

Thank you for sharing that with me. I have tears in my eyes. You never know for sure how you impact a family or a child. So, Thank you.

Sara

These pictures were taken during "Water Day" on one of the last days of school:

Skyler 365

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-18T20:06:20-07:00

I took a photo of Skyler every day during his 4th year, starting on his birthday on May 18th, 2004 to May 17th, 2010. It was a lot of work, but well worth it. This is a work-in-progress...

Skyler has been crossing off the days until his birthday. He likes learning about time and calendars. I also took Skyler to Toys R Us on his birthday to buy Army Man Legos!

School Prank

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-17T18:04:43-07:00

I just had to take a photo near my classroom this morning...

Fishing With Grandparents

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-17T16:11:31-07:00

While Renea and I escaped down to Mexico, my parents took Skyler on his first fishing trip. They didn't catch anything that first time, but I look forward to going on the next one!

Rocky Point 2

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-16T22:33:52-07:00

Renea and I went to Rocky Point (Puerto Penasco) again with some friends from work. Saturday was a looooooooong day of...having fun. Unfortunately, I couldn't make it to dinner!

It may be our last time in Mexico for a while, since things have gotten more negative in taking trips down there. Maybe someday in the future we can visit again with Skyler.

See all the photos (choose the album).

Dinosaurs Vs. Superheroes

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-11T21:26:50-07:00

Skyler and I like to line up his millions of toys to play out battles between the good guys and the bad guys. He has a lot more toys than I remember having as a child, but I had to share (or not) with my younger brother. Now, I have to share with my young son!

He likes to get things for himself and comes up with creative ways to do that!

Mother's Day

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-09T23:38:00-07:00

We had a great time with family on Mother's Day! Everyone enjoyed watching Skyler and his cousin Nathan get rocketed into the pool by Josh. We took lots of underwater photos, too.

I didn't take photos of Skyler and his mom, my mom and me...but, we really had a nice day and I look forward to more Sunday afternoon get-togethers this summer!

See all the photos (choose the album).

Mommy Day

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-06T23:28:25-07:00

Skyler invited his mom for one of the last days of school. They sang songs, played games, and made crafts. He has really learned a lot these past two years of preschool with Miss Sara and he will miss her.

Teacher Appreciation Day

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-05T23:20:09-07:00

Actually, it is Teacher Appreciation Week, and our school's P.A.T. has been treating us like royalty.

Yesterday, I had to drive way out to ASU East to get my master's project printed, but after noticing a typo, I decided to come back home and fix the mistake at my parents', where I also printed copies. We wanted to get a free meal for teachers at Applebees, but saw a huge line out the door and quickly decided to go to Uncle Sam's next door. Back at my parents' house, dad helped me out a lot to make sure the printing looked good. Today, I went back to ASU East, paid a gazillion dollars for the binding, and then drove home with a big smile on my face. I will be graduating with my master's in a couple of weeks!

Scorpion!

Jeff Herold — 2010-05-02T20:11:44-07:00

We caught a scorpion in the bottom of the pool and decided to have some fun with it. Josh almost dropped it in his mouth and I scared Skyler when I was showing it. I ordered a huge blacklight to help us in our search for scorpions in the yard.

Chicken Nugget Contest

Jeff Herold — 2010-04-22T23:20:45-07:00

Now you can say proudly that you know someone who is the fastest chicken nugget eater around! Yes, I won the contest (and burned my mouth in the process). It was at our school's annual Chick-fil-A family night. Skyler and Renea were there to cheer me on and our assistant principal was so proud of me. After I won, she won the milkshake contest!

I won some free meals, but I need to make sure I pace myself and not be in such a rush.

First Swim of 2010

Jeff Herold — 2010-04-21T21:07:39-07:00

Tonight, Skyler and I started out in the hot tub, but got brave enough to jump in the pool for a little. It was pretty cold, but refreshing! Renea was teaching at her new weekly night class, so it we just had to be boys.

I can't wait until it warms up a little and we can swim every day (without having to be brave). Check out the video below.

Folk Songs From Around the World

Jeff Herold — 2010-04-18T23:23:26-07:00

I met up with my parents and friends to see my brother perform in the Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix. He has been practicing and performing with them for the past few months and this was my first time seeing him in concert. I think it's really good for my brother, Patrick, and I am glad I got the chance to go. The group had men from many different ethnic backgrounds of all ages. If I could sing half as good as my brother, I'd be interested in joining. Thankfully, we have one good singer in the family.

I was expecting something entirely different, but experienced an amazing concert that had me highly entertained for well over an hour. A smile was on my face the entire time. I look forward to seeing another show in the near future.

Party TIme With Friends

Jeff Herold — 2010-04-17T23:33:14-07:00

We had a ton of people over tonight. Eight were children! Skyler had a blast leading the way for everyone to instill chaos upon the adults! Lots of food and fun was had by everyone. I showed some of the children my new computer and the funny photos they could take on it. They loved it.

The adults were reminded why they are all going on a weekend excursion to Rocky Point, Mexico next month (without kids). It will be fun!

Eliana's Birthday Party

Jeff Herold — 2010-04-10T18:12:10-07:00

Skyler was invited to his friend, Eliana's, birthday party at Peter Piper Pizza. We had fun playing the games, eating pizza, and finally cake! Having a birthday party at a public location is a lot different from at a home. The clean up part is super easy and the timing of events are on a schedule to fit the reservation time. Skyler got enough prize tickets to get a cool gecko and bouncy ball.

Daddy Day

Jeff Herold — 2010-04-08T17:21:26-07:00

Ok, so earlier in the week, I went in to work early for a meeting, but prior to it, I reserved a substitute online so that I could go to Skyler's Daddy Day at his preschool. However, I didn't pay attention to the date and it defaulted to the current day (no, I am not a morning person). After the meeting, I went to my classroom to see a substitute teacher looking for lesson plans for the day! I soon figured out what happened and decided to go with it. I stayed for a few minutes and went home to babysit our pool being drained.

A couple days later, I had a couple of great co-workers cover my classes so that I could go to Daddy Day. I had so much fun seeing Skyler in his school environment, with his friends. I am so proud of him and what he can do. Every day I learn something new about him. We had fun "shaving" each other, playing t-ball, making fruit shish-ka-bobs, painting our hands, and musical chairs.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Easter 2010

Jeff Herold — 2010-04-05T17:20:43-07:00

Easter weekend was a terrific day of spending time with family and friends and taking in a Good Word about Jesus Christ. I took Skyler to the local Walgreen's for our annual Easter Bunny photo.

We went to my parents' church and the service was awesome. It is finished! Those were the last words Christ spoke on the cross and the paster asked us the congregation what is finished in our lives. I applied it to the stress of my grad school project and any problems I may have at work. It IS finished! We enjoyed the rest of the day at Margo and Jon's for pot roast and all the fixin's. The kids and young adults enjoyed the Easter egg hunts and bunny decorating.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Legoland 4

Jeff Herold — 2010-03-16T21:49:17-07:00

Wow! We had the best time with our friends in California and Legoland! Skyler proved that his fear of ice-cold ocean water was a misnomer and I proved that the state highway system assumes you need to end up on a military base instead of your rental! We had a blast all weekend and I felt so relaxed that I would consider it an annual stay.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Train Park

Jeff Herold — 2010-03-06T21:17:28-07:00

Skyler invited his friend Eliana and Ethan to the Scottsdale Train Park. They had a great time riding the merry-go-round, train, and playing the carnival games. If you haven't been there before, it is an excellent place to spend the afternoon.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Winning and Losing

Jeff Herold — 2010-03-04T23:25:04-07:00

Skyler and I played for a little while on the Wii Play disc and I ended up beating him towards the end on the "balloon shooting game". He started crying and I told him it was time to turn it off, so he ran into the other room. I joined him on the couch and talked to him about competition. "Sometimes daddy wins. Sometimes Skyler wins."

"But, I want to beat you all the time!"

He cried some more and then I took him into the bedroom and tackled him on the bed. We made a little tent with the sheets and all was back to normal. I love being a dad.

Desert Adventure

Jeff Herold — 2010-03-02T23:08:13-07:00

Skyler and I took advantage of the great weather and went for a trek in the desert behind our house. It was his first time back there. I can't believe that I haven't taken him out there before, so I hope to do it more often. He enjoyed leading the way and was determined to make it to his cousin, Lukas' house. I had to deliver the bad news that Lukas lives a little too far to walk. Check out the video I took during our adventure.

Schoolbus

Jeff Herold — 2010-03-01T17:50:09-07:00

I got to take Skyler to his bus stop and pick him up today. We played all afternoon and I also managed to get some work done on my research project. Check out the video I took of him getting off the bus.

Friday Night Birthday Party

Jeff Herold — 2010-02-26T21:38:15-07:00

It was nice to go out to Uncle Sam's (what, no website?!?) for pizza and in celebration of our friend, Jenny's, birthday. It was a busy and looong week! We will be spending time with her, the twins, and her husband, Mark, next weekend. I can't wait to go to Legoland in California (again). Just a few more days and then it's Spring Break!

Enjoying the Weather

Jeff Herold — 2010-02-17T21:16:08-07:00

For the past few days, we've been having some great weather. Some of it has been rain. Some of it has been sunshine. All of it has been an opportunity to play outside and enjoy ourselves.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Chopin and a Fever

Jeff Herold — 2010-02-24T08:59:38-07:00

Last night, I went to my parents for some good Chinese take-out and then my dad and I got some culture at the newly renovated Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and saw Jeffrey Siegel play some piano works by Chopin and Schumann. This year marks Chopin's 200th birthday. It was an amazing concert and I really enjoy Jeffrey Siegel, because he explains parts of the pieces and gives a backstory before he plays the entire piece form start to finish. It helps the audience to better appreciate the music. There is also a special video camera and screen above the piano keyboard, so everyone can see the performer's hands on the keyboard. Very neat!

This morning, I am staying with Skyler at home, because he has a high fever and a possible ear infection. This would be the first time he has been sick this school year, so we can't complain! He and I prayed that he will get better, so we can run around and play outside.

Skyler and His Girlfriends

Jeff Herold — 2010-02-15T20:56:58-07:00

Well, two of them anyway! Skyler had a couple of friends over for pizza and playing. McCartney, Skyler, and Amelia made a huge mess, but it was fun watching them run all over the house.

Sledding in Flagstaff

Jeff Herold — 2010-02-15T12:21:59-07:00

Yesterday, Skyler and I joined my dad in a short day trip up north to Flagstaff. We went sledding at a neighborhood park and then had lunch at a small dive. My dad had to deliver some paperwork and talk to some people for a few minutes, so it was a great opportunity to spend time with my dad and Skyler's grandpa. Don't tell Renea, but we put Skyler's bare feet in the snow because he kept saying he was going to do it himself.

Check out the rest of the photos.

I turned 34 on Saturday and Renea went with me to a movie, Edge of Darkness. Afterwards, we were supposed to go to Souper Salad for my free lunch, but they had closed (and the existing Greek restaurant had closed a couple months ago). We ended up at Samurai Sam's for some good teriyaki bowls.

I sent Renea a couple dozen roses at work last week, so all of her co-workers would notice! I am such a great husband! She is such a great wife!

Athlete of the Year

Jeff Herold — 2010-02-06T16:01:40-07:00

I woke up this morning and helped some more with our school's first rummage sale. Yesterday, after school got out, there were people showing up as we moved items to the parking lot. I think it was a success and hope it generated enough money to purchase new technology for our school.

Next, I came home and picked up Skyler to go to our first race. Kendra's Race is an annual fun run/walk to raise money for cancer research. Skyler sprinted a lot and impressed everyone there. However, his sprints eventually had to end and he repeatedly asked to go up on my shoulders, while I jogged. It was a good workout! We clocked in at 12:28 for the mile.

A couple hours later, I took him to a swim lesson that was rescheduled from the morning. At the end of the class, Skyler received a ribbon and graduated from Jellyfish to Octopus. The details of his achievements are in the photos.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Great Day

Jeff Herold — 2010-02-04T19:24:19-07:00

Unbelievably pleasant dentist appointment...
Field trip with kind, caring, fun, respectful, intelligent students...
Perfect substitute with a nice report about my classes...
Hanging out with a fun group of kids after school in technology club...
Playing in the backyard with my son and dogs...
Excercising while watching the news...
Hugging my lovely wife (after cleaning up)...
Witnessing my son's awesomely amazing house of dominoes...
Watching The Office on the couch...
Having a happy song in my head throughout everything...

Today was a great day.

Monster Trucks

Jeff Herold — 2010-02-01T21:30:05-07:00

Tonight, Renea got back from her Vegas trip with some female co-workers. She said they had a really fun time this weekend and are planning on another trip next year! For more details, you have to ask her about it.

Meanwhile, Skyler and I went to my parents' after his swim lessons and he cooked us hot dogs over a backyard fire. Then, we all went to our first monster truck show. It was a super time! Towards the end, Skyler was getting crazy and I told my mom and dad that he was about to crash. Ten minutes later, he was asleep, even though the noise was so loud.

Skyler loved the Batman truck the best. When we got home, he fell asleep with his unboxed Batman monster truck that his grandma and grandpa bought him.

We stayed overnight and then went to my parents' church on Sunday. After parking, my dad and I ran into the Kurt Warner family as they were getting in their truck from leaving the earlier church service. It was pretty cool to see such a high-profile guy, just being normal and attending church like a regular "Joe". I should've asked for a photo, since I had my camera in my jacket!

Check out the rest of the photos.

Daddy's Classroom

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-29T19:07:56-07:00

I had to go back to work to pick up something, so Skyler went with me. He liked walking around my classroom, which I just moved into earlier this month. On the way out, we went through the front office and he got to pick up a children's book from the upcoming rummage sale.

This morning, I took a photo of him in my office at home. Notice the gazillion toys laid all around.

We Love to Exercise!

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-28T18:45:01-07:00

Skyler and I have been exercising this week and we love it! He races me...and he wins every time. We share a cold water bottle and talk about our day.

He likes to try the treadmill, too, so we do that part together at the slowest pace. I keep reminding him that he only uses it with daddy. There are about three or four power buttons and safety features, so I'm not worried he'll ever be able to turn it on and start it up on his own anytime soon.

Joey the Bug is Sad

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-26T19:42:56-07:00

Joey the Bug is Sad
by Skyler and Daddy
January 26, 2010

What is Joey the bug doing today? I wonder if he is hungry like me. I am very hungry. My belly wants food when I play outside so long.

What does Joey like to eat? Maybe he likes to eat cereal like me. I want to eat snow monster cereal. It tastes so yummy. Do we have some in the cupboard?

Joey also likes to hug his mommy and daddy. They give him great hugs. He is sad right now because his mommy is going on an airplane. Joey wants to play with his mommy.

What will Joey do when his mommy is far, far away? Maybe he will play with his daddy! They can do lots of things.

They can play outside.
They can play inside.
They can play at the park.
They can play anywhere!

Joey the bug will miss his mommy. When she comes back, he will give her a great, bug hug. He loves her very much. He doesn’t want to be sad.

I want to be happy and not sad. I want to play with my daddy, too. He is a fun daddy. We play all the time and act silly every day. I love him very much.

Tomorrow, Joey the bug has a big day. He is going to the dentist. He really likes the dentist. He gets to pick a little toy and gets lots of stickers. It is so much fun.

Goodnight, Joey the bug. Sweet dreams. See you next time.

The End

Messy Day

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-26T18:13:25-07:00

Yesterday, I visited Skyler's preschool class and joined Skyler in Messy Day! It was a lot of fun and I enjoyed seeing Skyler interact with his teachers and classmates. He got so messy that even I had to clean up. The children made lots of projects and even "skated" in shaving cream.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Ashley turned 22 today. She is stationed in Yuma, Arizona and recently moved into a house with her boyfriend, Robert. He seems like a decent guy and I enjoyed talking with him during their last visit.

Skyler Upside Down

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-23T22:09:10-07:00

Here is a quick shot I took of Skyler practicing his gymnastics. He usually just jumps off high furniture, but tonight he decided to stand on his head. Of course, it caused his bedtime to be pushed back quite a bit!

Playing in the Rain

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-20T19:03:52-07:00

This week, we've enjoyed some fun weather! On Monday, Skyler and I enjoyed the cooler breeze and played in the backyard, throwing up his stuffed animals. By the look on Spongebob's face, I think they liked it, too. Yesterday, Skyler and I played in the rain.

Never miss the opportunity to play in the rain.

Trivial in Comparison

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-17T17:09:46-07:00

I have been glued to the television and computer a lot this week, learning all I could about the aftermath of the Haiti earthquake. This cute little boy was found alive after being buried for a couple of days. His smile upon seeing mom and after having a long sad face is very moving. I can't imagine how horrible the situation is there right now. I don't want to get into the horrible things that have happened or are currently happening, but I am just really glad to read positive stories like this.

Any problem that I may have seems extremely trivial in comparison.

God has blessed my life and I pray for those in need right now.

Closet Monsters

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-10T22:20:21-07:00

We had my parents and brother over to watch the Cardinals game (nail-biter!) and eat some pot roast. Skyler got both his grandpa and grandma into his bedroom closet to scare me. He had fun being a monster in the closet. I think my dad got a little claustrophobic.

Severe Weather Alert!

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-08T20:24:54-07:00

I read, see, and hear about how bad the weather is around the country. Minus 50 degrees windchill? That's crazy! We've been enjoying 70 degree weather (notice Skyler in his shorts). Anyone who thinks Arizona isn't the best place to live on Earth is crazy. If you aren't jealous of our climate, you should be. Of course, we are always welcoming visitors to stay with us!

These are some photos I took after work today. It's so nice to be able to work in the yard and not have to worry about frostbite!

Playing With Grandma Elsie

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-09T19:21:58-07:00

Lukas brought his mom, Susan, and his grandma, Elsie over to play and hang out for a while. Skyler and Lukas played for hours and left a trail of toy debris all over the house! I enjoyed talking with grandma that afternoon.

Jury Duty

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-06T20:02:31-07:00

I was called for jury duty yesterday and ended up being in a large pool of potential jurors for a first degree murder case! The judge said it was scheduled to last about 6 weeks. I finally spoke to the judge, in front of the lawyers and the two defendants, about my job as a teacher and my responsibilities at work, asking to be released. The judge agreed as did both sides.

It was a very interesting two days and I am glad I got the opportunity to be a part of the judicial system. There were so many things I learned and experienced. There were hundreds of people waiting in the jury main room and about 135 potential jurors for this particular case. I was amazed to see so many responsible and friendly people. It was encouraging to be around honest, hardworking Americans that just want to do their part in serving in a civic duty.

A little regret is how I feel after asking to be released, but I would drive downtown again to serve as a potential juror in a heartbeat. Maybe next time I will be selected and be a part of making a decision in the judicial system.

I took some candid photos with my cellphone, being careful not to be noticed.

Check out the rest of the photos.

New Year's Day

Jeff Herold — 2010-01-02T19:48:58-07:00

Skyler got to hang out with his friends, Nick and Quinn, and their parents, Mark and Jenny, on New Year's Day. He liked throwing snowballs (even after daddy hit him with one in the face). We drove up to their cabin in Pine, Arizona and just stayed the day. It was a short, but fun trip. On the way up, we nearly ran over half a dozen deer!

Check out the rest of the photos.

Legos!

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-30T20:58:32-07:00

Skyler is a member of the Lego Club and receives a new, small Lego set every two months. For Christmas, I got him a Darth Vader Tie Fighter ship. We both love it and like all of our Legos. It is a lot of fun to create new things, but I am always careful to make sure the instructions and pieces are organized, so we can follow directions to make each set.

Joey the Bug and the Spider

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-29T19:11:50-07:00

Joey the Bug and the Spider
by Skyler and Daddy
December 29, 2009

I see lots of clouds in the sky. They are big and look heavy. Maybe it will rain! I love the rain and the rainbows. They have lots of colors.

I’m a big boy and I like to climb things, like chairs, couches, tables, and my dad’s back.

Right now, I think I will climb the wall. It’s not a big wall. It’s just a small one, but I like it. It lets me see higher and farther away.

I can see the desert and the mountains. There is a big cactus. Those hurt if you touch them.

There is Joey the bug! He’s crawling on the wall. Should I pick him up? Yes, I will pick him up. I need to be careful, so I don’t squish him.

Now, there is a spider on the wall, too! It’s not a big spider. It’s just a small one, but I like it.

I will try to pick Joey the bug up now. He doesn’t like spiders. He likes me.

Joey is moving too fast! He is hiding in the crack on the wall. I can’t reach him. Maybe he is scared of the spider.

I will save Joey! I am blowing on the spider. Shoo spider! Stay away from Joey the bug! The spider is slowly moving away.

Tomorrow, Joey the bug has a big day. He is going to see his friends from far away. I hope he stays safe.

Goodnight, Joey the bug. Sweet dreams. See you next time.

The End

Exercising With Daddy

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-29T19:04:38-07:00

I asked Skyler if he wanted to exercise with me. He confidently agreed and I set up his Smart Cycle, then I hopped on the treadmill. After a few minutes of sweating, I offered him a little sweat towel. He smiled and wiped his face and laid it on his shoulder, just like daddy.

It was a good workout and I had fun seeing Skyler exercise with me.

Christmas 2009

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-26T00:09:36-07:00

I caught Skyler spying on his stocking on Christmas Eve! He said "you can't put presents in a sock!". I laughed and took photos and a video of him, while he was being booked for spying.

Later on, we went to my parents' church for an afternoon service. Renea's mom, her sister, and kids went. Afterwards, we headed to Margo and Jon's for our annual Mexican food dinner. Skyler enjoyed playing with his sister, Ashley and her boyfriend, Robert. His brother, Josh, and nephew, Nathan, were also there to help him terrorize the house. Renea's sister, Deanne brought her boyfriend, Rayhan. I was glad to see everyone there.

Christmas Day was full of opening even more presents. Skyler received so many toys this year! I am glad Renea went through his two toy boxes earlier this year. We spent the day at my parents' house. Skyler got to hang out with his cousin Lukas and great-grandma Elsie.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Joey the Bug Gets a New Home

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-22T22:59:39-07:00

Joey the Bug Gets a New Home
by Skyler and Daddy
December 22, 2009

It’s fun to help my dad in the yard. I like to water the plants and kick the rocks off from the sidewalk. Be careful to not go near the street!

I found Joey! He’s crawling on the driveway. Maybe he will climb up my stick. No, he is hiding in the cracks. Why does he hide there?

He’s so cute. He crawls up my fingers. Ouch! He pinched me again. I better be careful. I want to hold Joey, but sometimes he gets mad and pinches me. Is he mean or nice? Maybe he is just being like a bug.

Joey the bug needs a nice home. My daddy is getting a box to put him in.

Oh, no! Where did he go? I lost him! Maybe he is under the dirt. Maybe he went to bug school. I better find him soon so I can put him in his new home.

I found him! He was hiding again. Joey the bug is so tiny and gets lost so easily.

Let’s help daddy make a home for Joey. He can’t just live in an empty box. What does Joey need in his home?

Does he like leaves?
Does he like dirt?
Does he like flowers?
Does he like little, tiny rocks?

Tomorrow, Joey the bug has a big day. He is going to see Santa bug and ask for lots of presents. He’s also going to see his family. That sounds like a great idea.

Goodnight, Joey the bug. Sweet dreams. See you next time.

The End

Christmas Caroling

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-23T20:47:20-07:00

Skyler and I just got back from some Christmas caroling. Renea, Skyler, and I were in the hot tub for a while when we heard trumpets and other instruments playing across the street. We got out and put some clothes on, then Skyler and I found the neighborhood procession around the corner. He and I had fun seeing Christmas lights and hearing the music.

Sneaking at Presents

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-22T21:28:38-07:00

Renea and I just caught Skyler sneaking out a present his great-grandma Barb got him after Renea shopped for the perfect gift. I made him point at his great-grandma before we opened it. He might look a little cranky because it's past his bedtime. Renea's been wrapping Christmas presents all night.

Skyler loves his Batman helicopter!

Flying Angels and Circus Animals

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-21T22:21:53-07:00

Tonight was Skyler's first time at Phoenix First Assembly's annual Christmas pageant (see preview). He was amazed at the flying angels and all the circus animals, including an elephant, tiger, kangaroo, zebra, and camels. It was an amazing show and it was nice to be there with Jon, Margo, my brother, my parents, Renea, and Skyler.

There is some kind of monster hiding behind Skyler!

Polar Express 2009

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-20T20:08:19-07:00

We had a great weekend in Williams, Arizona. Renea, Skyler, and I were the first to arrive at our rented cabin. However, we had trouble making it up the icy hill. Fortunately, a neighbor, Mark, was walking along the road and offered to help us. After a few more attempts to make it up, he drove us to his home and let us park there. Then, he helped us pack our things in his truck and he took us to our cabin. Mark was very nice and is one of a handful of residents who live there year-long.

Friday night, after settling in to the cabin, we stopped into town for pizza, then boarded the Polar Express. Like the previous two trips, it was a fun time with hot chocolate, cookies, singing, and visiting with Santa.

On the return from the train ride, Steve's car got stuck. Renea and Skyler were with him and his family. I was in the other vehicle. Chet and I joined Steve in trying to rescue the car. The nicest part, though, was seeing all the stars in the dark sky.

Saturday morning, Skyler and I got up before everyone else and went sledding. I had to keep reminding him to not eat the snow. A little while later, we were joined on the hill.

After eating breakfast, I called AAA and had a driver come up towards the cabin to pull Steve's car out of the ditch. A plastic cover from under the car was severely damaged and dragged on the road, so Steve and I headed into town to get tools to remove it.

In the afternoon, the kids opened up presents from under the cabin's Christmas tree. Skyler got a book and a Transformer. The adults had an idea to get the kids to take a nap after playing outside, so we all went sledding, made a snowgirl, and had a big snowball fight. Some of us sustained minor injuries.

Back inside, many people took a nap, including me. After dinner, the kids played inside some more and then slowly fell asleep. The adults played games for hours, proving once again that the guys' team usually wins.

Sunday morning, everyone packed up, cleaned up, and headed out. On the way home, the snow slowly faded away until it was no where to be seen. A little while later, the saguaro started to appear.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Busy at the Post Office

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-14T21:21:15-07:00

I ran some errands today, including a trip to the post office. It was so busy! I decided to get in line for the automated kiosk and was there for 15 or 20 minutes. The regular line was all the way to the main doors, so that was out of the question. Tonight, I saw on the news that today is considered the busiest day for shipping at the post office (nicknamed Black Monday), so I am thinking I should've gone out tomorrow. Over 800,000,000 pieces of mail were sent today!

Earlier tonight, Skyler made up a very long, but exciting story about worms, spiders, owls, the jungle, and the woods.

My parents are celebrating their 35th anniversary today. I talked to them today and over the weekend. I am very happy and proud of them.

Joey the Bug Pinches

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-11T23:14:13-07:00

Joey the Bug Pinches
by Skyler and Daddy
December 11, 2009

I see Joey the bug in the hallway! It’s been a long time since I’ve seen him. How are you Joey? Did you miss me?

Joey the bug is nice. I hope this isn’t the mean bug. I will pick it up.

It likes to crawl on my finger and even up my arm. It tickles!

Ouch! Joey the bug pinched me! He has little fingers that hurt me. He pinched me on my finger and on my arm. I don’t like that.
I am going to hurt Joey the bug, too. He hurt me. So, I am going to hurt him. I will push him done to the ground.

Joey isn’t moving. He hurt me and I pushed him.

Why did he want to hurt me? I just wanted to play with him. He wasn’t very nice.

Okay, now I want Joey to get up. He is so small and so slow. He won’t get up.

Joey, please get up! I want to play with you again. You like to crawl on my arm and I like to make houses for you. You are my friend.

Maybe I will go play outside now. Joey needs to rest. I’m sorry for pushing you down, Joey. Will you still be my friend?

Tomorrow, Joey the bug has a big day. He is going to school and then he will play with me again. I won’t push him down anymore. He is my friend.

Goodnight, Joey the bug. Sweet dreams. See you next time.

The End

Skyler and Santa 2009

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-10T23:30:49-07:00

We took Skyler to a scheduled photo shoot with Santa for the second year in a row. They had fun taking lots of photos and Skyler loved asking him questions and telling him what he wants for Christmas.

Instead of the traditional waiting in line to sit on Santa's lap for a minute, we like making an appointment at a family photo store at the mall. The Picture Place is a fun and unique way of getting portraits taken.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Auntie Darci Visits

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-08T23:07:03-07:00

Auntie Darci visted Skyler, Renea, and I to watch the Biggest Loser finale. It's pretty amazing how much the contestants have lost and how different they look.

Skyler liked egging Auntie Darci to fight him. Renea made us her famous turkey chili and I enjoyed having it for dinner the next night, too.

He Stole My iPod!

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-06T23:02:08-07:00

Skyler took my iPod and asked me to play some songs for him. Then, he grabbed his guitar and started to jam. Look for his winter tour, coming to a stadium near you.

Skyler and His Friend, Josh

Jeff Herold — 2009-12-05T23:52:36-07:00

Skyler had a friend from daycare stop by for a couple hours to play today. They played with dinosaurs, trains, and cars. Sometimes they played alone, but most of the time they played together.

My dad got out of the hospital earlier this week. He's doing very well. My Uncle William is still in the hospital and I hope is doing ok, too.

Hospitals and Rainbows

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-30T20:18:46-07:00

Yesterday, we had my parents, grandma Elsie, uncle Mike, brother and girlfriend Megan and her son, over for food and company. My uncle and I took my dad to an urgent care office and then later he checked into the hospital to deal with his leg. I visited him this afternoon with my mom and he is doing good. I helped him with some "Cyber Monday" shopping.

After everyone left Sunday afternoon, Skyler and I played out in the rain and saw a double rainbow!

Thanksgiving 2009

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-29T21:27:14-07:00

This weekend, I drove over 1000 miles. Wow! It was a nice drive to Durango, CO and back. We visited Renea's dad and stepmom. It was a very relaxing weekend with lots of fresh air.

Our first night was spent about halfway, in Gallup, NM. We stayed at a very large hotel, currently called the Gallup Inn. I swear it was haunted, with the hundreds of unoccupied rooms with dark, un-heated halls. I even suggested that they advertise it as haunted to attract more visitors (we were one of two occupied rooms). Our room was okay and heated. Skyler and I left mommy to work on her laptop. He wore pajamas and shoes during our two exploration treks throughout the various corridors and passageways. When we came back from our adventure, Skyler read aloud The Monster at the End of This Book. I videotaped it. Renea and I were all smiles.

On Friday, we drove to Pagosa Springs. There, Skyler was impatient during a quick photo shoot, so he dropped his pants and underwear and started his business in the little creek area, outside a very nice resort! It was just Skyler and I hanging out, when I heard shouting from 20 yards away. They were trying to get me to notice what Skyler was doing, since I was preoccupied with my camera. My first reaction to pull up his pants was met with more shouting to stop and let everything finish. It was a very funny moment, to say the least.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Thankful For Our Former President

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-25T23:04:06-07:00

I am thankful for our former President and his wife, Laura. Last week, I read about them visiting Fort Hood soon after the terrorist shooting. My first and only remaining thought is about how much respect I have for President Bush. No press, no huge deal. He just wanted to spend some time with our brave soldiers in a time of need. I am really grateful that his heart is in the right place. Someday, I hope to meet him.

Read more here.

Sausage Party and a Swim Ribbon

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-22T20:32:13-07:00

Ok, I know it sounds weird, but our friends hosted their annual sausage-making party on Saturday. It's been a few years since we've attended. Skyler wasn't even born yet. Renea and I have yet to actually participate in the sausage-making part, but it was fun to see friends and coworkers. I enjoyed watching Skyler play with kids his age.

Earlier that morning, I took Skyler to his weekly swim lessons and he did so well that he received a swim ribbon. He was so proud of it and so was I.

Amelia, McCartney, and Skyler wonder where the scary spiders are...

Joey the Bug at the Hospital

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-20T20:50:40-07:00

Joey the Bug at the Hospital
by Skyler and Daddy
November 20, 2009

Where is my friend, Joey the bug? I like to play with him and tell him about my day. I like to hear about his day, too.

I found Joey! He was hiding in the backyard. He was shy because of grandma. She’s not at home right now. My grandma likes to read and play with me.

Oh, no! My dog ate Joey the bug! Now we have to get a new Joey the bug. Where can I found one? Where is the new Joey the Bug? We need to find one now!

Is he at the grocery store? No.
Is he at school? No.
Is he at the circus? No.
Is he at the park? No.
Is he at the hospital? Yes he is!

The new Joey the bug is with my grandma at the hospital. He likes grandma. He reads books with her. They talk about the stories. She is very nice to him.

My grandma is sick right now. I want her to get better. I want to play with her. My grandma is fun and likes to make me laugh.

Grandma is going to get better. Joey is going to help her. They are friends.

Tomorrow, Joey the bug has a big day. He is going to come back to my house and play with me. Maybe he will share a book with me. I am happy that Joey saw my grandma at the hospital.

Goodnight, Joey the bug. Sweet dreams. See you next time.

The End

Nathan's Baptism, Early Thanksgiving, and a Walkathon

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-15T23:23:12-07:00

My nephew, Nathan, was baptized today! It took place after the service at my parents' church in Scottsdale. I am very proud of him and his commitment to God. I have not been baptized, so I am inspired by Nathan. Maybe, I will do it in the near future.

Yesterday, we visited Jon and Margo's house for an early Thanksgiving, since Renea and I are taking Skyler to Colorado. Lots of delicious food, including KFC grilled chicken and a pot roast was had by all. Skyler enjoyed reading a Noah's Ark book with his Grandma Margo.

Skyler and I had to leave a little early to get to a walkathon that our school's National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) was sponsoring. I am one of the NJHS advisors, so I brought Skyler along to join in the fun.

Grandma Barb Visits

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-15T19:33:01-07:00

This past week Grandma Barb came all the way from Michigan to visit with family out here. We had a great time playing dominoes and Wii Bowling. She's really good!

It was so nice to spend some quality time with my mom's mom. I enjoyed talking to her about politics, religion, and life in general. I wish she would visit more often. Skyler liked playing his great-grandma from far away. She is an amazing woman, with an amazing life story. I really respect her a lot.

Maybe we can visit her next year.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Twins' Birthday Party

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-11T21:51:37-07:00

Skyler was invited to his friends' 5th birthday party today. Everyone had fun playing (or watching) the games and the bouncy room.

It was also Veterans Day. I am very thankful for every veteran, including my dad, my grandpas, great uncle, father-in-law, stepdaughter, and friends.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Circus Park

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-01T21:42:46-07:00

Today, we went to a Circus Park in Mesa. My parents' church was hosting an event at a city park with food, fun, and music - all with a circus theme. Skyler enjoyed running around and teasing Grandma Elsie with her hat.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Joey the Bug is Mean

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-06T17:49:12-07:00

Joey the Bug is Mean
by Skyler and Daddy
November 6, 2009

I see Joey the bug! I am so happy to find him again. He wants to play again. Maybe he wants to play in my sandbox again.

Let’s play in the sandbox with some toys. Joey the bug likes to crawl up my arm. Today he is crawling up my arm a lot.

Ouch! Joey just bit me. He is not a nice bug. He is a mean bug. Why does he want to hurt me? Stop that, Joey the bug!

Maybe this is not the same Joey the bug. It looks a little different. It has little pinchers that might hurt me. I think it’s a mean bug. I don’t like it very much.

Go away, mean bug! You hurt me. I want to pour water on you, but I won’t.

We need to be careful with bugs. Some of them are nice, but some of them are mean. I don’t like the mean ones.

I wonder where the real Joey the bug is. Is he at home or is he at school? Could he be out playing with his friends. He is my friend, too.

Joey must be hiding. I need to look for him. Is he under the chair? Is he under the table? Is he under the toy?

Tomorrow, Joey has a big day. He is going to the park. Maybe he will tell us about going down the slide and running in the grass.

Goodnight, Joey the bug. Sweet dreams. See you next time.

The End

Joey the Bug Likes to Play

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-05T21:05:07-07:00

Joey the Bug Likes to Play
by Skyler and Daddy
November 5, 2009

School is out. Work is out. It’s time to play! What should we do? It’s such a nice afternoon. The sky is blue and the birds are singing. Let’s turn on some music, too.

Joey the bug wants to join us. He is done with school, too. First, we need to do some yard work. It’s important to take care of our yard. Fixing things and cleaning things are fun to do.

Oh no! The dogs are getting too close to Joey the bug. They might even step on him! We need to pick him up and protect our friend. Let’s take him over to the table. Be careful not to squeeze him too much. Joey is very tiny and very soft.

Does Joey the bug like the sandbox? I wonder if he will like to play there. In the sandbox, we have lots of toys and lots of sand. Joey likes the blue bucket and the sea shells. He can play on the truck, too!

Joey the bug is really tired now and wants to go home to his family. His mommy and daddy are waiting for him. Where does his family live? They live in the sandbox! Maybe they live under the toys in the sandbox.

Tomorrow, Joey has a big day. He is going to spend time with his family and do some really fun things. Maybe he will tell us about his fun day.

Goodnight, Joey the bug. Sweet dreams. See you next time.

The End

Another Soccer Season Over

Jeff Herold — 2009-11-04T19:00:04-07:00

Our school's co-ed, intramural soccer season is over. We had a lot of fun playing and learning skills. I always enjoy hanging out with students during soccer and cutting loose. Though we didn't get to play other schools, it was still a great few weeks of playing scrimmages.

I'm on the far right.

Trick or Treat 2009

Jeff Herold — 2009-10-31T22:35:01-07:00

We took Skyler to his friends' house for trick or treating again. It's always fun to watch the kids dress up and everyone walk around the neighborhood. Skyler worked hard to get tons of candy an I hope he shares with me. If not, I know some high places to put his bag.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Skyler's Class Celebrates Halloween

Jeff Herold — 2009-10-29T19:48:24-07:00

Skyler was Spiderman for his school Halloween party. His Grandma Margo got him the costume and he likes to wear it quite often. He loves the Spiderman movies and likes to act out scenes. Renea got to visit him during the party at school and take some photos. The last photo is Skyler and his teacher, Ms. Sarah.

This last photo is, by far, my favorite. I am glad that Renea spent a little time at his school and shared in the event. They both look so happy!

Cornfield Maze

Jeff Herold — 2009-10-25T22:28:56-07:00

This afternoon, Skyler took his mommy and daddy and his grandparents, Papa Steve and Grandma Carrie, to a cornfield maze. The first thing we did was put him in his Halloween costume, The Scarecrow, and start a quick photo shoot at the pumpkin patch.

Then we walked over to the maze area and watched Skyler play a bunch of fun games. He won so many prizes.

Next up was the big maze. Skyler took us on a tour of the cornfield and promptly helped us get lost. We ended up taking some unauthorized shortcuts to reach the end.

We decided to play a couple more games before going home. Skyler even made a cool tie-dyed shirt.

At home, we carved a couple pumpkins. Mine was a little difficult, with a lot of zigzags and special cuts. They looked pretty neat with the lights out and a candle inside them.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Skyler, the Inventor

Jeff Herold — 2009-10-24T21:00:02-07:00

Skyler used his mini skateboard, from today's winter clothes shopping trip, to help him get the heavy watering can over to some recently planted flowers that needed it. Last weekend, he and his mom planted trees, bushes, and flowers after we had a few removed. He is so smart and very helpful.

Zoo Trip With Papa Stu and Grandma Gwen

Jeff Herold — 2009-10-17T20:44:36-07:00

Yesterday, Skyler took his grandparents from Colorado and also his mom to the Wildlife World Zoo. He got some scraps on his legs from overexcitement from him and a goose. It was nice to see Stu and Gwen. We plan on visiting them for Thanksgiving. It will be nice to get into much cooler weather and possibly see snow!

Check out the rest of the photos.

Email From Teacher

Jeff Herold — 2009-10-15T20:11:38-07:00

This was a quick email this morning from Skyler's preschool teacher, Ms. Sara:

He is very happy today. He told me,"Look, I can fart," and makes a farting noise with his mouth!!! Too funny!
Sara

Josh and Kaleigh: Soon To Be Teens No More

Jeff Herold — 2009-10-11T00:03:35-07:00

That's right. My stepson Josh and his cousin, Kaleigh, will no longer be teenagers, starting next September. We had a little celebration for them this weekend and some of us ate a little bit too much ice cream cake! Even playing Wii games did not help much. My dad even tried to steal some of Skyler's desert!

Skyler Knows What Time It Is

Jeff Herold — 2009-10-04T23:53:54-07:00

Skyler had some friends over to hang out and play with. He also invited the parents of those kids. Eliana and Amelia enjoyed his company.

Legoland 3

Jeff Herold — 2009-09-28T22:31:32-07:00

This weekend was a fun-filled adventure to Legoland once again. Skyler proved to us all that the most important thing is having fun with family and friends. Uncle Bill and Aunt Janie joined my parents and Renea and I for a weekend with Skyler. Both Aunt Janie and my dad celebrated their 60th birthdays. Everyone had a lot of fun.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Skyler looks totally terrified in this photo. It was his first ride of the
weekend and he didn't want to ride again it after that.

Joey the Bug

Jeff Herold — 2009-09-22T20:43:20-07:00

Joey the Bug
by Skyler and Daddy
September 22, 2009

Once upon a time - no, actually it was tonight - there was a bug floating on top of the water in the hot tub. His name is Joey. He is a tiny bug that likes to crawl. Joey can crawl up and down our fingers and the palms of our hands. Sometimes it tickles.

Will Joey bite you? No, he is a nice little bug that wants to be your friend. He won’t bite you. He just wants to crawl on you.

Joey the bug also likes to swim. He’s not a very good swimmer and slows down after a while. But, once he climbs upon your hand, Joey can begin to crawl and tickle some more.

The swimming and crawling around on fingers and hands makes him very sleepy. So sleepy, in fact, that he decides to take a rest outside of the hot tub. He sleeps for a very, very long time. When he sleeps, he doesn’t move at all.

Then, Joey suddenly wakes up! He starts to crawl away from the hot tub and into the dark. Where is he going? Should we build him a house? He doesn’t want to have a house made for him because he already has a home. Joey is going home to his mommy and daddy.

Tomorrow, Joey has a big day. He has to ride on the little bug bus and go to the little bug school. Maybe he will learn more about people.

Goodnight, Joey the bug. Sweet dreams. See you next time.

The End

Puerto Penasco

Jeff Herold — 2009-09-16T19:59:56-07:00

Last weekend, Skyler wanted to spend some quality time with his grandparents, so Renea and I had to leave him for a couple of days. We went to Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point), in Mexico, with some friends. The first night we stayed at one of the friend's parent's vacation home. All the streets were made of sand. The humidity was very high, but liquid beverages helped out with that.

The following day, we drove to a resort managed by a family friend of mine. It was very nice and the humidity seemed to disappear with the beautiful scenery, including the perfect beach, which was secluded and held as many shells as there were grains of sand. Overall, I consider the short weekend jaunt a great success. The worst part was everyone fell asleep too early. I guess we're getting old!

Check out the rest of the photos.

Apple Pickin'

Jeff Herold — 2009-09-10T20:16:52-07:00

Earlier this week, on Labor Day, we went to Date Creek Ranch for an afternoon of picking apples in the orchard. Yes, it was literally in the middle of the desert and it was a few miles off the beaten path. Actually, we took the beaten path for quite a while, before it disappeared. Our van needs new shocks and struts, but we all had fun looking for the apples and grabbing a few small ones.

Watch our YouTube video here.

Check out the rest of the photos.

A Date, A Dare, and a Monster

Jeff Herold — 2009-08-30T18:45:04-07:00

Last night, Renea and I went out on a date while my parents watched Skyler. We got some Hawaiian BBQ, went to Barnes and Noble, and saw G.I. Joe. At the bookstore, we bought two copies of The Love Dare and, for Skyler, The Monster at the End of This Book (one of my favorite childhood books). I enjoyed expressively reading the monster book aloud to Renea in the store! The previous night, Renea and I watched Fireproof, which prompted us to buy the book used in the movie. I started the dare right away. Renea's turn will come soon.

This morning, Skyler decided to wake me up with his new monster book. Since she's a morning person (unlike me), the photographer grabbed the camera at the right moment. I'll get her back!

First Day of School Again

Jeff Herold — 2009-08-20T22:21:43-07:00

Skyler finished his first week of his second year of preschool. I guess last year was pre-preschool. His teacher is the same, though it's at a different school. His morning bus ride is pretty long (about 45 minutes), but he is the first drop off after school.

Monday, we all got up early, put his new clothes on and got his new Spiderman backpack ready. He went through so many emotions that morning and the photos show them all.

Check out the rest of the photos.

Plants Need a Shower

Jeff Herold — 2009-08-13T23:18:31-07:00

This afternoon, Skyler and I got just as soaked as the plants we watered in the front yard. He enjoyed spraying the hose at me, but I got away most of the time. Some of the plants look like they are about to blow away like tumbleweeds.

Later on, I took him to meet up with family for dinner in Cave Creek. He and I were both not in the best of moods. We survived!

Water Balloon Fight!

Jeff Herold — 2009-08-11T20:06:09-07:00

Skyler gave me some water balloons that his great uncle Mike brought over this weekend and asked me to help him fill them. We went outside and got a little wet, but had fun throwing them at Storm and Gambit. Is that considered animal cruelty?

Check out the rest of the photos.

A Crash, Credit Card Fraud, and a Missing Wallet

Jeff Herold — 2009-08-10T17:27:15-07:00

In the past two weeks, I backed into a friend's car, had my bank account credit/debit card numbers used to purchase a shoe store gift certificate, and the other day, lost my wallet. Thankfully, I didn't have much cash or any bank cards in it. Our bank account got all the money fixed from the dozen attempted transactions. I got a new driver's license and it only took a few minutes.

I am looking forward to the upswing.

Fun With Friends and Family

Jeff Herold — 2009-07-28T16:28:41-07:00

We have had so much fun spending time with friends and family this summer. It's nice to have the time to hang out with people you like. Skyler has more girlfriends than the law allows, though. I will have to have a chat with him soon.

Being Silly

Jeff Herold — 2009-07-15T22:37:23-07:00

After Skyler spent a long time making a "playground park" on his bed, he decided to make a pig face in the dirty window. Once I thought the silliness left him, we went swimming, but the water always makes Skyler go crazy. We had fun together!

Our First Launch

Jeff Herold — 2009-07-14T16:38:48-07:00

Last Saturday, Skyler and I took my father out to test the first launch of our Titan Blast Rocket. All it took was some water and a lot of sweat in the 113 degree Phoenix desert. This week, my summer school class has worked hard and had some eventual success. I've been reminding them about the shuttle launch on Thursday morning.

Watch Our First Launch!

Up and Ice Cream

Jeff Herold — 2009-07-09T22:43:22-07:00

Today we saw the new movie, Up. It was a very good story and another great Disney Pixar film. Last night, I saw a teaser trailer for Toy Story 3, which comes out next summer.

After the movie, Skyler remembered the ice cream sign he saw on our way in, so we just had to get some! He had fun making his tongue (and face) blue. Renea even joined in!

Cow Appreciation Day

Jeff Herold — 2009-07-10T22:08:22-07:00

Skyler had fun playing and swimming with Macy and Brody this afternoon. But, when it came time for dinner tonight, I read about Chick-fil-A and their 5th Annual Cow Appreciation Day. Skyler and I dressed like cows to get free meals. It was a fun ending to a great day!

Safety Latches and Knobs

Jeff Herold — 2009-07-08T14:51:41-07:00

Yesterday, my uncle, Chris, installed knobs and handles in our kitchen, while Renea worked with my aunt, Susan, on a computer college course (very difficult and lots of work). The new knobs and handles really change the look and feel of our kitchen and pantry area. Skyler and Lukas played all around the house and then later everyone went for a nice swim.

Earlier in the day, I thought about when I installed some cabinet latches because of Skyler and how I had to remove them now. He is growing so big and is learning so much each and every day.

Fireworks 2009

Jeff Herold — 2009-07-07T08:44:58-07:00

Why not spend the entire weekend celebrating the greatest country in the world? Great idea! Friday night, we went to Anthem and saw fireworks after Skyler's swim lesson. Saturday, we spent the day at two parties and went swimming. Sunday, my parents and brother stopped over and we played Wii bowling.

I tried avoiding any conversation or thoughts about Michael Jackson and focused on the men and women who've fought and currently fight for our independence and freedoms. God bless America!

Check out the photos.

Elsie's Birthday Surprise

Jeff Herold — 2009-07-01T14:49:24-07:00

Last weekend, we celebrated my grandma Elsie's birthday. She wasn't expecting all of us from town and out-of-town to surprise her, so it was very exciting for everyone. After getting group photos at her home, we went to Arby's for her favorite lunch. Then, we traveled to our house for Wii videogames, swimming, and a cake. Later on, we went back by her home for Uncle Sam's Pizza and celebrated once again. It was a great day and everyone had a good time.

Check out the photos.

How To Be A Good Friend

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-26T14:50:31-07:00

Earlier this week, one of my favorite students and soccer players this year was struck and killed by a red-light runner as she was crossing a busy street on her bike. As soon as I read an email from work about the incident, I looked at the photos I took last fall during soccer. She also wrote a really great article for our school's newspaper, of which I am the advisor. Megan was getting ready to start high school and I hoped she would continue playing soccer and maybe even join the school newspaper.

How To Be A Good Friend (direct link to her article or you can read it below)

This photo from October during a practice is probably my favorite photo of her. Megan was always smiling and it was infectious. It makes me smile still.

Grandma Likes Trains

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-23T22:33:57-07:00

Tonight, Grandma Elsie stopped over with Susan and we had fun playing trains and swimming. Grandma got to watch Lukas and Skyler swim back and forth across the pool, while Renea and Susan worked on school assignments.

Launch Party

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-19T21:22:50-07:00

This afternoon, we had some friends and their children over for a swim party. When my aunt and uncle brought Lukas over, I came out of my nap/movie/study mode. While Renea and my aunt Susan worked on some online college class stuff, Chris and I took the boys swimming. Skyler had a blast being launched into the air.

Check out the photos.

Flagstaff BBQ

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-17T21:21:53-07:00

It was time for the Chili Cook-off again in Flagstaff! My dad met Skyler and I at our house and we drove up in the convertible to the event. Skyler loved watching the trains go by and playing in the dirt. All three of us got a little sunburned from being outside and riding with the top down. Next time we need to put on sunblock!

Skyler really enjoyed his M&M cookie while wearing his matching M&M shirt and hat. He carefully ate the M&Ms first, before eating the rest of the cookie.

Proverbs 3:27

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-19T20:59:51-07:00

Last Sunday, there was a pastoral candidate at our chuch who gave a very thought-provoking sermon. Derik Hines spoke on Proverbs 3:27 and I've been thinking about it all week.

"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act."

That verse has prompted me to open up my bible for the first time in many, many months. I am now going to keep it on my office desk. The verse is about encouraging us to help others, but only if they deserve it and if we think about our own situation, too. I shouldn't offer assistance to someone who clearly doesn't need it. That is something I often find in my teaching. Students will ask for help and I first see if they actually need it or if I can just point them in the right direction. Also, I need to remember that I can't do everything. For example, if I see a homeless man on the street, I can't realistically go up to him and offer to take him in and let him live with my family for a few months. That's not in my power to do.

A few weeks ago, Renea and I took on a second sponsored child in Africa after a very powerful church service from Tom Eggum. founder of Hope 4 Kids International.

Here is Kevin (Ndirangu) from Kenya, age 11, and our newest. Mukisa from Uganda, age 5.

Skyler Swims Across The Pool!

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-16T21:56:34-07:00

Skyler amazingly showed us how he can swim across the pool and back. He just turned 4! His Saturday morning swim lessons have really paid off and I am very proud of his abilities.

Watch the video here!

Birthday Celebrations

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-14T21:46:38-07:00

More birthday fun! We went to our friends', The Greskos, and celebrated three birthday parties! I took these photos, documenting Skyler's decent into grumpiness after a long day of having fun. He enjoyed holding the hamster and playing with the twins.

Swimming and Ice Cream With Amelia

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-13T20:06:28-07:00

Skyler and his young friend, Amelia, went swimming and shared ice cream. Their parents also enjoyed playing Wii. Earlier in the afternoon, I heated the pool for a couple of hours and it eventually reached over 90 degrees. It's been so unseasonably cool lately, so the water was initially too cold for the wimpy adults.

Celebrate With The Good Stuff

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-10T20:02:40-07:00

Today, we had a little celebration for Renea's birthday. Skyler, Josh, and I shared with her a tiny cheesecake. The drink on the left was not for Skyler!

Finally Released!

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-08T23:30:02-07:00

My dad didn't get released from prison (his new job), but today he did get released from Scottsdale Healthcare Shea. He has been in there for almost a week, due to an infection in his right leg and foot. I have a similar dry skin problem, but I'm not worried. My dad complained about the food and the boredom. This morning I picked up his post office box mail and a textbook for him. While I was in the hospital, the neighbor stopped by and updated us on their son's appendix surgery. People need to remain healthy and out of the hospital.

New Floors and Old England

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-07T22:45:07-07:00

Today, Renea dragged Skyler and I to IKEA, which is about the same number in miles that are country is getting as stimulus dollars. We bought the largest bookshelf they had and a ton of wicker baskets to put in it.

Last week, with the help of our friend, Michael, we put in laminate flooring in three rooms, including my office. It is my safe haven that I go to whenever Renea asks me to do something. Well, she asked me to put in flooring. Drats! Foiled again!

We also got to see some friends from England that were staying with my parents. Maybe they will invite us to visit someday soon, since Renea and Skyler just submitted their passport paperwork!

Check out the photos.

Winos

Jeff Herold — 2009-05-30T22:44:12-07:00

We celebrated our friend, Chet's, birthday at Postino. I managed to get a couple of import beers and loved the bruschetta and panini. Don't ask us how much Renea and I spent.

Terrorizing Cousins

Jeff Herold — 2009-05-28T22:43:48-07:00

Today, Renea's stepsister and her two daughter came to visit us during their big road trip. It was really good to see them and we spent the night swimming and listening to loud music. Even one of our neighbors had to lean over the wall and ask us to turn it down! I hope we get to see them again soon.

Check out the photos.

Train Park

Jeff Herold — 2009-06-01T13:07:19-07:00

Last evening, we spent a few hours at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale. Skyler loved riding the trains with his cousin Lukas. There was a fun band that played popular pop/rock/dance hits, The Groove Merchants. Grandma Elsie got to join us, too. Everyone had a good time hanging out and dancing in the nice summer breeze.

Check out the photos.

Skyler is holding his snake that Grandma Carrie got for him...
after an emotional day of not having it.

Renea Celebrates Early!

Jeff Herold — 2009-05-21T18:13:48-07:00

Today, the office staff at work celebrated Renea's birthday a couple of weeks early, since school is out. She told me not to celebrate it again, but I need some help. Renea deserves a party!

Skyler 365

Jeff Herold — 2009-05-20T23:11:06-07:00

This week, I started taking headshot photos of Skyler each day to show a slow and steady progression of his growth. Here is the first shot, taken on his 4th birthday.

Renea and I also finished our last week of school and had a pleasant 8th grade promotion that included zero problems! Skyler was helping me get the students ready and then guard the gates. He first had to tumble with Miss Bland.

Skyler's Birthday Weekend

Jeff Herold — 2009-05-17T21:41:53-07:00

This weekend we celebrated Skyler's birthday with a party at our house and then a party at his cousin Lukas' house, who is also turning four years old. I got my new camera and tested it out underwater and used it for all the photos. It takes good video, too.

Skyler wanted a Star Wars party, so I had a boombox on the front porch playing Darth Vader's theme music, his cake had a Darth Vader mask, the pinata was a Darth Vader head, and the party favors included little inflatable light sabers that even lit up.

Check out the photos.

Ice Cream Man

Jeff Herold — 2009-05-14T22:08:34-07:00

After work and school, Skyler and I were by ourselves at home and I heard the ice cream man's truck off in the distance. We decided to find it, but had to jump in the car to track it down. Just as it was leaving the neighborhood, we found it and waved it down. Skyler was in his underwear, but didn't mind as he picked out a treat.

In this photo, you can see a framed painting from the artist, Skylardo.

Mothers' Day Weekend

Jeff Herold — 2009-05-11T21:57:59-07:00

Renea and I got to spend time with our moms this weekend. Saturday, we had a nice lunch at Rúla Búla with my side of the family. Renea's side of the family came over on Sunday for swimming and celebrating Margo's 60th birthday. Skyler and Nathan had fun in the pool. At school, Skyler made some artwork for his mommy. We put it in our hallway near the garage, where we put up lots of creative things made by Skyler.

It was a tiring weekend for Skyler.

Check out the photos.

Our First Day of Summer

Jeff Herold — 2009-05-09T20:03:12-07:00

Today marks the first day we jumped in the pool, so I officially proclaim that summer is here! We went in around 5PM and Renea and I scraped some of the built-up calcium deposits on along the walls. The water temperature was about 82 degrees and we also heated up the hot tub. Skyler enjoyed jumping in and splashing us.

Daddy Day at School

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-30T15:39:09-07:00

Today was Daddy Day at Skyler's preschool. I met him there, along with other fathers. We started out by playing t-ball. It was his first time playing and we ran the bases together. Next, we went inside for some activities, including a school-wide lockdown, which meant we had to go into a side room and quietly read books. Skyler and I got the perfect good book for the occasion, Just Me and my Dad, by Mercer Mayer. He read to me by telling me what was happening on each page. After the lockdown was over, his class sang a song for the dads and then it was shaving time! Skyler and I used shaving cream and popsicle sticks to shave each other's faces. I almost left to go back to work with a ton of shaving cream still on my face! Skyler gave me a nice poem and footprint painting before I had to leave. He then began his final craft for me, a shaved crayon and photo project. I had a lot of fun and I know Skyler was glad that we got to share some time together at his school.

Check out the photos.

Skyler and Lukas Play

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-27T15:34:50-07:00

Yesterday, we visited Lukas' house and helped out with some computer issues. Aunt Susan is taking her first online college course and plans on finishing her degree from a few years ago. While Renea and I were taking turns at the computer, Skyler and Lukas played around the house.

Renea also found out today that she passed her exam for school administration (AEPA). She was worried, but I knew all along that she would pass it. Can you imagine calling her Principal Herold?

Chipmunk Vs. Lizard!

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-26T09:23:11-07:00

I just took this photo from inside the house, looking towards the backyard wall.
Was the lizard about to attack the chipmunk? Who would win in a fight?

Pumping Gasoline

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-25T12:58:34-07:00

Skyler and I enjoyed a nice ride to and from his swimming lessons at Hubbard Swim School. He loves the convertible and hanging out with daddy in it. He helped me pump gas into the car and used his super strength! You can see the lollipop he usually gets after a successful swim lesson. This afternoon, mommy found his old pair of glasses, along with the new ones. Both are the same. I am going to put one pair in my car and one pair in the van.

Serious Sandbox

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-23T21:47:32-07:00

When it comes to playing in the sandbox, Skyler takes it very seriously. He always manages to get sand throughout his entire body (which ends up around and inside the house). Today, we spent a couple hours outside, working and having fun. I finally decided to remove the two hanging tomato plants.

Ashley's Surprise Visit

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-19T23:34:45-07:00

Ashley and a friend, James (from the Royal Air Force), stopped by for a visit today. They played some mini-golf and other outdoor attractions at Cracker Jax before enjoying a nice chili dinner and then departing back to base in Yuma.

Making Brownies

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-19T20:28:20-07:00

After returning from Josh and Lindsay's prom photo shoot, Skyler and mommy made brownies. Daddy just happened to wake up in the middle of the night and eat most of them.

Josh and Lindsay's Prom

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-19T13:21:20-07:00

Last night Josh and Lindsay went to prom. Earlier in the afternoon, Renea and I took Skyler to Lindsay's house to take prom photos. I took a lot more than I thought I would, but there are some really great ones and a few fun ones. It was interesting to be among the "parent paparazzi" since there were so many couples eating dinner at the house before going off to the dance.

Check out the photos.

Bill and Janie Visit

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-16T22:08:08-07:00

Today, Bill and Janie from California left to return home after spending a week at our house and my parent's house (we couldn't stand Bill for more than a couple of days). Yesterday, we visited the Out of Africa Wildlife Park and battled the cold wind. Everyone had a fun week. If I'm a little nicer, Bill and Janie said they'd let us visit them again in the fall.

Check out the photos.

Easter 2009

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-13T21:14:24-07:00

Today, we celebrated Easter Sunday by going to my parent's church and then hanging out at Renea's mom's house. We had fun on the Easter Egg Hunt and eating a yummy pot roast meal. Skyler also got to see the Easter Bunny again. Last year, he didn't have a clue who it was.

A few days ago, Skyler had fun coloring Easter eggs with his friends.

Check out the photos.

Monsters Vs. Aliens!

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-08T15:12:28-07:00

Right after I picked Skyler up from school, I took him to see Monsters Vs. Aliens in 3D. Lately, I was worried he would throw a tantrum and be in a really bad mood. Not today! We saw it without any problems, except for the theatre was out of "caterpillar candy", so afterwards, we stopped and got some gummy worms. The movie was very entertaining and we both had a permanent smile. One of us needed a nap.

Renea is a Hero

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-08T10:40:51-07:00

For the past few days, my lovely and caring wife, Renea, took charge of all the school counselors in our district and spent many hours emailing and creating proposals for the school board regarding the potential of severe counseling position cuts for next year. She even spoke during a school board meeting and organized a great effort to save jobs. Last night, during another school board meeting, it was announced that school counselors would not be cut. Renea has gained a lot of respect and admiration recently from her fellow workers and has received numerous emails of gratitude from school counselors, board members, and other district office employees. I am very proud of her!

Yesterday and today, I stayed home to take Skyler to and from school. His sitter for after school is off the rest of this week. When I picked him up yesterday, I took these photos as he was getting out. I am about to go pick him up again now...

Caught!

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-06T10:37:46-07:00

Yesterday, Skyler went to a classmate's birthday party with his mommy. There was a balloon artist and he made him a fishing pole with a fish and a ladybug. Later on, I walked into our bedroom and caught Skyler with a mouth full of candy and wrappers everywhere!

Coloring Easter Eggs With Friends

Jeff Herold — 2009-04-03T22:58:06-07:00

Tonight, Skyler had Nick and Quinn come over to color Easter eggs. They had fun using the different colors and hardly made a mess! While the adults played Catch Phrase, the boys ran throughout the house (and our playing area), playing Star Wars and attacking one another with light sabers.

Our View

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-31T22:24:53-07:00

This afternoon, Skyler and I spend a few hours in the backyard and Renea went to a school district board meeting to speak about the potential cuts to her position as a counselor. He was in the sandbox, while I was working on setting up a couple hanging tomato plants (I'm not a gardener). It was so nice out and it felt great working in the soil. I feel so blessed with our home and neighborhood.

After I was finished, I let the dogs out and took some photos of them.

Hanging Out With Family

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-29T22:10:20-07:00

Yesterday, I took Skyler to spend time with his cousin, Lukas, while I helped Chris with some computer issues. They had fun playing in the dirt and feeding the koi fish. Today, my parents and brother came over and everyone enjoyed watching me complain about the Nintendo Wii and my iPod not working (I tried!).

Building Together

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-27T20:18:46-07:00

Tonight, Skyler and I built some Lego spaceships and robots from a couple of sets that arrived today. He had fun creating his own masterpieces, but when I needed a particular piece, Skyler put up a good fight, not letting go. Mommy had to intervene and distract him for a little bit, so I could steal the piece back and finish another section. The time brought back a lot of fun memories, like following the instructions and building spaceships.

Skyler's spaceship from a small set that has a picture of a garbage truck on it
(Daddy will make that one tomorrow).

Statistics Finally Over!

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-11T19:18:05-07:00

The degrees of freedom for determining t-critical is...
Using alpha at .05 (two tail), t-critical equals...
The value of Chi Square obtained is...

Those are actual questions from my last test. I can't believe I got an "A" in the class! The sad thing is my $100 textbook is now worth only a couple of bucks.

Legoland: The Return

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-17T23:02:46-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, we arrived back from our weekend jaunt to Legoland in Carlsbad, California. We survived the long drive (6 hours each way) in my very cramped Mustang. Tickets were cheap (zero)! Last fall, when we were there, we talked with someone who was there for Teacher Appreciation Day. So, we signed up and went during another one.

The beach was Skyler's giant sandbox and it took some encouragement to get him to even go towards the water. He ended up getting soaked and went through a couple changes of clothes (including daddy's button-down shirt).

Skyler had fun with the twins and everyone enjoyed the time away from the desert. It was a little cold, so we didn't put the top down at all (but, one of us really wanted to)!

Check out the photos.

This is a frame from a video I took during one our roller coaster rides.

My Album Cover

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-09T21:30:37-07:00

I followed these instructions from the internet and came up with something pretty cool.

1 - Go to "wikipedia." Hit “random”
or click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random
The first random wikipedia article you get is the name of your band.

2 - Go to "random quotations"
or click http://www.quotationspage.com/random.php3
The last four or five words of the very last quote of the page is the title of your first album.

3 - Go to flickr and click on “explore the last seven days”
or click http://www.flickr.com/explore/interesting/7days
Third picture, no matter what it is, will be your album cover.

4 - Use photoshop or similar to put it all together.

Here is the album cover that I made from the instructions...

Catching Lizards and Curling Tongues

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-08T19:14:05-07:00

This weekend, Skyler and I caught a gecko (lizard) from the bottom of the pool. Swim time was over for this little fella. Last week we caught one at the top of the water and realized he was still breathing. I also got a new t-shirt that has impressed everyone so far (my wife is the ultimate judge). Skyler just wanted to get in the picture, too, and show off his tongue-curling skill (which I can't do).

The t-shirt reads: bipartisan - Retaining the ability to blame the Republicans when the world realizes your stimulus plan was an epic FAIL.

Chuck E. Cheese

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-03T20:57:52-07:00

Memories came back to me yesterday when I visited Chuck E. Cheese for a school fundraiser with Bronson's family, after our weekly music class trip. I worked at one in the mid-nineties, hosting birthday parties and occasionally dressing up as Chuck himself. He and I got our photo taken and "drawn" by a computerized Chuck and played lots of games. He's pretty good at the car driving ones.

Facebook

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-02T00:27:07-07:00

I finally set up my Facebook account after much prodding. It actually seems pretty cool. I found a lot of high school friends and some have already added me to their links. The whole thing is super easy. Here is my page:

Take Off Your Coat

Jeff Herold — 2009-03-01T13:26:17-07:00

This morning, Renea and I heard at really inspiring message at church. The speaker, Pastor Mike, gave a sermon based on Jesus healing Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52). This is the only time a name was revealed to a person asking for a miracle in the Bible. The significance is that we need to get uncomfortable once in a while and take off our personal shield to listen to God and do what He says.

On the way to Sunday School, Skyler sang a song about coloring a blue Jesus (his papers he gets during a lesson). Today, he used purple, which was much noticed.

A Good Conversation

Jeff Herold — 2009-02-22T07:50:56-07:00

Yesterday, I had a great time talking with my dad. No special occasion, no immediate emergency - just a nice conversation. He brought up a bunch of really positive things going on...and one negative. Do the math. My introduction to statistics course is almost finished and I am about mathed-out, but this was a simple task.

Skyler went to a classmate's birthday party at Peter Piper Pizza. Thankfully, I drove separately, so I used my excuse of claustrophobia to get out of there fairly quickly.

A few days ago we got Grandpa Whitehair's chess game from Grandma Donna. Skyler loves the pieces and one day I will show him how to play (badly).

This first photo was taken during our trip to Florida a few years ago.
Grandpa is watching Josh and Patrick play a serious game.

I just took this photo of Skyler and the new home for Grandpa's chess game.

33

Jeff Herold — 2009-02-14T21:30:06-07:00

Yesterday, I turned 33. Not a landmark age, but it's a little farther from my twenties. Renea brought pizza and dessert for me and my lunch gang, which was a nice surprise. I ended the day watching Family Guy Spaceship (aka Blue Harvest) with Skyler. It's our favorite movie. Notice the spaceship he made all by himself!

Valentine's Day was great because after Skyler's swim lessons, he and I ran some errands, including getting his mom flowers, a special mini-cake, and three balloons. I only got to pick out a card for Renea. Ashley showed up unannounced and stayed for the day. She said she'll be returning next weekend.

Celebrating Birthdays

Jeff Herold — 2009-02-08T22:30:39-07:00

Yesterday, we celebrated my mom and my birthdays at the Wildlife World Zoo. It's been a couple of years since our last visit.

Skyler loved the new aquarium and water ride. He enjoyed spending time in the petting zoo, but didn't like it when a turkey bit him.

Tonight, we spent some time at Mark and Jenny's. Skyler played with the twins and I jammed on bass in a newly-formed band, The Midlife Crisis-eese. It's been a few years since I played and it was pretty fun.

Check out the photos .

Ashley's Birthday and Superbowl

Jeff Herold — 2009-02-05T22:00:48-07:00

Last weekend, Ashley visited (and got some of her mail). Her birthday was on the 26th, so we celebrated with family while she was here. 21! I can't believe how old she is now. Here is a photo from when I remember her during middle school.

Here is the closest I could get with a couple of military buddies during her recent stay.

On Sunday, Renea and I took Skyler to a Superbowl party and had a fun time with friends. Of course, Skyler and I had to wear our "Big Guy, Little Guy" matching shirts.

Sleeping and Fighting

Jeff Herold — 2009-01-29T21:28:13-07:00

This week, I recorded Skyler sleeping and the proof of his violence during our scuffles. Below is a video of him sleeping on a lazy afternoon, where it's so quiet you can hear the motor of the camera zoom. It is followed by a photo that I may just have to submit to Judge Judy for a future trial against him.

Swimming, Haircut, and Making Cookies

Jeff Herold — 2009-01-24T15:41:36-07:00

Today, we went to swim lessons, got a haircut, played in the yard with the dogs, and made cookies. I can smell them right now (the cookies, that is). Skyler is swimming so well. I haven't been to a lesson in a while, so it was good to see him in action. On the way back, we put the top down on daddy's car and had a great time listening to rock music and feeling the "windy wind". He was very comfortable for his haircut and got a sucker at the end. We played with Storm and Gambit in the backyard for a long time and finally came inside so Skyler could make cookies with mommy. The cookies are about finished, so I will taste test them.

Check out the photos.

Still Gonna Carpool!

Jeff Herold — 2009-01-17T16:05:05-07:00

Yesterday, we decided, spur-of-the-moment, to check out some vehicles, including the one shown below. Renea was great at haggling and we believe we saved quite a bit on this 2006 Ford Mustang convertible. With both of us taking some classes, we needed another car . . . and I missed my Lebaron convertible from long ago.

Renea and I will still carpool as much as possible and I need to get back to riding my bike home a couple days a week.

Late this afternoon, I took Skyler for a spin with the top down. We went slowly around the neighborhood and then revved it up on the main road. He loved the wind and the view! He started to cry when I said we would be returning to see mommy, so we drove for a few miles more. It was a lot of fun.

Coincidentally, I recently discovered our house (and neighborhood) was photographed by the Google Van. You can actually see a street-level view of our house if you search for our address in Google Maps. In the driveway is a white Ford Mustang convertible that I rented for a day last summer for a short father and sons trip.

Fire Truck Lunch

Jeff Herold — 2009-01-15T15:58:33-07:00

Renea's mom and Jon invited some family members to an event at a fire station not far from her house last Saturday. Free food, sitting in a fire truck, and participating in some fire safety activities were offered. Skyler loved the big trucks!

Check out the photos.

Happy New Year 2009

Jeff Herold — 2009-01-04T23:06:34-07:00

It’s been a few days since I added anything new. I put up a new section for 2009 photos and have a new album. The photos were taken during the final week of 2008 and New Year’s Day. Coincidentally, I proposed to Renea on January 1st on top of a local hill and hope to make the same trek with her and Skyler soon.

The two weeks we had off from work/school was a roller coaster ride. Last year was a tremendous learning experience for me and I am looking forward to 2009. I haven’t made any resolutions, but I plan on making a lot of changes this year.

This song, Learning to Fly, by one of my favorite bands, Pink Floyd, is a good welcome to the new year. It mentions being an “earth-bound misfit”, which is what I am right now! I think it’s about making changes and starting over. Sounds good to me.

Listen to Learning to Fly

Polar Express Photo Contest

Jeff Herold — 2008-12-27T00:42:01-07:00

This photo I took on our Polar Express Trip was chosen as a finalist for a contest. Even if we don’t win, it’s pretty neat to see our photo on the website.

Christmas Day 2008

Jeff Herold — 2008-12-25T21:34:26-07:00

This afternoon, Renea and I took Skyler to my parents’ house. My uncle Mike, uncle Tim and aunt Judy, and uncle Chris and aunt Suzie were there. Skyler had fun playing with his cousin Lukas. Hopefully, they will be able to get together again soon and play trains.

See the photos here.

Online Christmas Eve

Jeff Herold — 2008-12-24T20:06:51-07:00

Tonight, I watched a live online service from our church. The music and message was right on target. I need to make it a priority to keep attending church on the weekends. Sometimes we forget the reason we are on this Earth and going to church is a constant reminder. It’s not about me. It’s about Him.

Surprise of the Year

Jeff Herold — 2008-12-22T22:21:39-07:00

This morning, I was working at the computer in the office when the doorbell rang. Looking through the peephole, I saw Ashley (or as Skyler says it, Ash-ey)! I gave her a warm hug and told her to put her hood over her face as she came into the living room, totally surprising her mom, who was speechless. Skyler had fun getting tickled by her. It was a great start to the week. Mondays aren’t all that bad.

Christmas Concert

Jeff Herold — 2008-12-20T18:41:17-07:00

Last night, my parents took me to see Michael W. Smith for a Christmas concert at CCV, which is down the street from our house. We arrived at the sold-out event very early, so my mom got her Farkle Game out and we, along with a family friend, Sharon, played for the hour leading up to the show. The music was great and very uplifting. Michael had two former American Idol contestants on stage with him, Melinda Doolittle and George Huff.

I had a wonderful time and am very thankful to my parents for the ticket!

Like Father, Like Son

Jeff Herold — 2008-12-17T23:01:59-07:00

Seriously, what are these guys thinking? I know Skyler and I will never have the same great opportunity to appear on sensational news websites. Sometimes stupid people become famous, but I’d rather refrain.

Managing Without Mommy

Jeff Herold — 2008-12-11T16:51:13-07:00

Earlier this week, Renea left Skyler and I all alone, without pre-cooked meals or instructions on how to use the dishwasher. Shame! However, we managed to survive while she was at a school conference in Las Vegas.

I took Skyler to my weekly routine with Bronson. We also played with the blue light saber that he got at the Phoenix Electrical Light Parade last Saturday and took some really artsy-fartsy photos. By-the-way, it’s nice to go to events with people who know exactly where to park (thanks, mom and dad!).

Our school also had a fun Christmas party for the children and grandchildren of employees. Skyler had fun making ornaments and playing with the other children. I, of course, made him wear a silly beanie hat, given to him recently by his cousin Kaleigh, and a quazi-political t-shirt (see photos). He almost got dress-coded. At the party he opened a gift I bought him earlier in the day, a battery-operated crab.

The next day, Renea came home and we all decorated the Christmas tree.

Yes, we managed, but it sure is easier with mommy.

Check out the other photos.

Skyler Hangs Out With Santa

Jeff Herold — 2008-12-02T21:41:24-07:00

When we were at the mall on Sunday, we made an appointment to have Skyler’s picture taken with Santa at The Picture People. He loved hanging out with Santa before the photo shoot and was the best-behaved, cooperative child he had that day. We bought some great shots. Then, we came home, fixed the lights on the Christmas tree, and recorded Skyler singing “We Wish You A Merry Christmas”. The tree may not get ornaments on it, due to the karate fighting that Skyler imposed on it (see video below).

Church, Mall, and Arribas

Jeff Herold — 2008-11-30T21:33:49-07:00

Today we took Skyler to church, but left the service early to check out the Sunday School program. We all seemed like he will enjoy it when we go next week. Then, we went to the mall and got him a couple pairs of shoes. He grew a size-and-a-half since we bought him shoes at the end of summer. We couldn’t wait to get home to have some food, so we stopped by Arribas and had some New Mexican. Yummy!

Black-As-Death Friday

Jeff Herold — 2008-11-28T21:40:08-07:00

Yesterday, we visited my parents for Thanksgiving and had a nice meal over discussions of Black Friday and the crowds of people that always go crazy.

This morning, I read some stories and saw video of the aftermath of a swarm of insane people out shopping. These crazies literally risked their lives wanting to save a few bucks on worthless crap that will break or be forgotten in a few months. I feel very sad for the employee (about my age) who died in this mob-storm. Even a pregnant woman got pushed down and had to be taken to a hospital. I sat comfortably in my office chair and made some online purchases.

Later today, we went to Renea’s mom’s house and had another turkey meal. Skyler I played pirates in the backyard. It was a relaxing two days - something many people didn’t get to do because of the need to shop. I’m very thankful for the blessings that God has given me, including the ability to spend time with family and avoid angry crowds.

WALL-E

Jeff Herold — 2008-11-18T20:54:57-07:00

Tonight, Renea sent me out to buy WALL-E, which was released today on DVD. We planned on seeing it in the theaters this summer, but changed our minds after our attempt to see Kung-Fu Panda (which we actually just rented this past weekend - it was good). WALL-E, was much better than I had anticipated and I am glad we purchased it. It’s one of those movies that we’ll watch again and again. Though there were few words spoken, the story and emotions felt throughout the movie really made it a keeper. Here is an excellent review that sums up my views also: Amazon.com customer review of WALL-E.

It’s fun asking Skyler to say the name of the movie. WALLLLL-EEEEEEE!

Like Father, Like Son

Jeff Herold — 2008-11-15T22:34:48-07:00

I took this photo tonight when I saw Skyler pick up a magazine in the bathroom. Notice that it’s a Scientific American. He is so smart!

Playing Doctor

Jeff Herold — 2008-11-15T22:28:19-07:00

Last night, we watched Eliana and her baby brother, Ethan. I took Ethan into the office and we enjoyed listening to some classical music while watching the random visualizer on the computer. Skyler and Eliana played doctor.

The Polar Express 2008

Jeff Herold — 2008-11-12T21:37:43-07:00

A couple of days ago, Renea and I took Skyler on The Polar Express. We went a couple years ago, but he was asleep for a lot of it. This year, he got to see some of his friends there, including Eliana, and the twins, Nick and Quinn. On the train, we got to read along to the story and have cookies and a warm chocolate drink. Everyone sang Christmas carols and enjoyed the train ride up to the North Pole and back. Skyler had a blast and was the first child to receive a bell from Santa. Right before we headed back home, Skyler had fun chasing his mom with a chunk of ice.

Here’s all the photos!

Much Respect

Jeff Herold — 2008-11-11T13:55:35-07:00

Today is Veterans Day and I have a great respect for those that have served in our military, including many family members and friends.

Our school is celebrating and honoring our veterans with a morning ceremony and a video I made this weekend:

Here is the one I made last year:

Basking in Beethoven

Jeff Herold — 2008-11-06T22:49:06-07:00

Tonight, I attended a classical music concert with my parents. For the past year, I have been enjoying some audiobooks by Jeffrey Siegel. He performs famous pieces and gives background information to make the music more of a learning experience and forces the audience to experience the composers’ intent more meaningfully. The concert series are normally at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, but it is currently undergoing remodeling. Tonight, it was held at Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, in Scottsdale, which was very beautiful and tremendously added to the experience.

I am very compassionate while I listen to the music and life of Beethoven and I shed a few tears during tonight’s performance. I’m glad I have chronic allergies to use as an excuse!

Hey, You Gimme My Candy!

Jeff Herold — 2008-11-01T07:57:03-07:00

Last night, we took Skyler to his friends, Nick and Quinn, to go Trick-or-Treating. There was a big caravan of us, walking up and down the neighborhood, stopping at all of the houses with the porch lights on. Some had spooky decorations and caused lots of excitement. Skyler repeated his infamous slogan a few times: “Hey, you gimme my candy!”. Since he’s only three, everyone forgave his unapparent rudeness.

Check out the photos.

From Goldfish to Jellyfish

Jeff Herold — 2008-10-25T10:41:43-07:00

I took Skyler to his swim lesson today and he graduated from Goldfish to Jellyfish at the end of class. He was so excited when handed his Goldfish completion ribbon. Also, Josh started his job orientation today at Home Depot.

Carving Pumpkins

Jeff Herold — 2008-10-19T11:22:31-07:00

My parents came over last night and we decided to get some pumpkins and carve faces into them. Skyler was a little grossed out by the “pumpkin innards”, but had lots of fun helping. I made the scary face, my parents made the traditional face, and Renea made the happy face.

San Francisco

Jeff Herold — 2008-10-19T11:07:45-07:00

Last weekend, Renea and I took Skyler to the Bay Area and spent time with Uncle Bill and Aunt Janie. Skyler loved meeting his 4th cousins (once removed), Maceo and Jacob. The weather was a nice change from the 100+ degrees in Phoenix. Lots of photos were taken.

Check them out!

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!

Jeff Herold — 2008-10-05T21:40:28-07:00

Right now, Skyler and I are watching some YouTube videos. We just finished It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! It brought back memories of watching it on TV.

We started because Skyler was upset and kept saying he wanted pumpkins. I didn’t know exactly what he was asking for, but I immediately thought of the Peanuts show. It was enjoyable, watching his expressions as the silly characters played out on the computer screen.

I Voted Today!

Jeff Herold — 2008-10-02T23:04:40-07:00

I just filled out my early mail-in ballot for this November’s Elections! Earlier, I watched Sarah Palin and Joe Biden debate on the economy, energy, and foreign affairs. I thought Governor Palin did awesome and really showed everyone that she can handle the job as vice president.

The only bad thing about voting early is you don’t get the little sticker they give you that says “I Voted Today”, so here is my online version:

Josh's First Gig

Jeff Herold — 2008-09-28T11:37:35-07:00

Last night, Josh and his friend, Victor, played their first gig at The Mighty Cup, in Glendale, AZ as The Carnations. I got there a few minutes late (blaming traffic, fire trucks, and distance). It was a very comfortable, little place and the weather was perfect. They played outdoors, in the front area, for about half an hour. I videotaped and took some photos. It was cool to be there and remember my first gig in Arizona back on May 2nd, 1997. I have the taped audio recording of my gig and will be transferring it to a digital file soon. I’m glad I was there to witness Josh’s performance.

Josh also turned 18 on Friday. We will be celebrating this evening at his grandma’s house.

Papa Steve's Brithday

Jeff Herold — 2008-09-14T22:32:18-07:00

We went over to my parent’s house for a little birthday celebration for my dad. He turns the big 6-Oh next year! Skyler got to see hi great-grandma Elsie and play with his cousin, Lukas. Check out the photos.

Notice how intently Skyler is looking towards the cake!

Legoland and the Ocean

Jeff Herold — 2008-09-22T18:51:09-07:00

Yesterday, we got back from our quick trip to San Diego, visiting Legoland, their new Sealife Aquarium, and the ocean. After picking up Skyler at his school, we spent a day at the beach and the two parks. The next day we met up with Mark and Jenny and their two twin boys, who are a few months older than Skyler. Everyone had a great time and lots of pictures were taken. I even videotaped Skyler on the little gokarts, documenting his numerous crashes into the wall. It was very funny!

Skyler also started using a new phrase when he drops something. It is something that shouldn’t be said and I won’t type it here. We are redirecting him to say “Holy Moly” instead.

Check out the photos.

Skyler and Eliana Swim

Jeff Herold — 2008-09-07T21:56:57-07:00

Skyler invited his friend, Eliana, to go swimming. She brought her baby brother, Ethan, too. Everyone had lots of fun and there were some tears as the day ended. Check out the photos.

Naval Academy Graduation

Jeff Herold — 2008-09-01T07:39:05-07:00

Renea got back from seeing Ashley graduate from the language school in Monterrey, California. She is not sure of what her next orders will be, so there is a lot of necessary patience. Her friend, Melissa, and Patrick’s mother also visited for the weekend.

Wow! McCain and Palin!

Jeff Herold — 2008-08-29T23:49:47-07:00

I don’t talk about political stuff on my blog, but I just had to mention how excited I am that John McCain chose Sarah Palin to be his running mate. Like most people, when I first heard her name, I immediately thought: “who?!?!?”

Obviously, everyone is finding out about her now and I am so interested in learning more. This fresh “younger” voice seems to be a great example of a Republican conservative and isn’t jaded by many years of Washington, like the others (including McCain). With her background and family status, I think most Americans will be able to relate to her.

For good measure, I thought I’d include a picture of the shirt I bought Skyler a few weeks ago.

Online Video Chat

Jeff Herold — 2008-08-28T21:44:09-07:00

Tonight, Skyler got to have a couple video chats with his mommy and his big sister. Renea is in Monterey, California to spend a couple of days with Ashley and see her graduate from language school for the Marines. We had some technical difficulties with my webcam, so maybe I can be persuading enough to get a new computer soon. Wishful thinking?

Playing in the Rain Again

Jeff Herold — 2008-08-25T21:46:02-07:00

Tonight, Skyler and I spent a while on the front porch. He played in the rain while I took photos and video. Then, Renea came by and asked why I had sent our son out in the lightning with a long, metal object.

I’m still thinking of a comeback for that one.

Grandpa Jon and Skyler

Jeff Herold — 2008-08-24T21:42:32-07:00

This afternoon was a momentous occasion as Grandpa Jon and Skyler had some close bonding time. It was a unique experience and there was no doubt as Renea and I made eye contact, that I had to document it!

My parents and Renea’s mom also were there to eat some yummy chili (the best).

Timberlake Jay Hinrichs

Jeff Herold — 2008-08-17T20:11:04-07:00

Timberlake Jay Hinrichs was born today around 1:00PM, weighing in at 8 lbs., 13.5 oz., and 20 1/2 in. long. His real name will be disclosed soon. Here are the photos.

Skyler Starts Preschool

Jeff Herold — 2008-08-14T18:56:08-07:00

It’s been a while since my last update, but I have an excuse! We’ve been pretty busy and we started the new school year this week. Last week was full of teacher meetings and getting ready.

On Monday, I took Skyler to his sitter’s house and waited for the bus to arrive to pick him up for his very first day of preschool! Of course I took pictures and you can see them all here.

Skyler’s Diego Rescue Pack got switched on the way home and we’ve struggled through some coloring/cutting/pasting homework, but it’s been great so far.

Remembering Henry

Jeff Herold — 2008-07-31T20:29:39-07:00

I would never have called him that in person, for fear of getting severely (and deservedly) punished. He was one of my grandpas and I rarely talked to him these past few years. It was mostly during a holiday at my parents’ house. I did call him a few times on my cell phone.

Tonight, I finally looked at some photos that my dad gave me that was passed out the weekend of grandpa’s funeral, from a few weeks ago.

The photos can be seen here, unedited and full of stories that I wish I had taken the chance to find out more about. He served as a medic in the 82nd Airborne in the U.S. Army and jumped out of airplanes! My grandpa was a member of the “greatest generation”.

The Herald Tribune and Farley Funeral Home both have his obiturary online.

Ouch!

Jeff Herold — 2008-07-30T12:36:41-07:00

This morning, Skyler and I were having a pillow fight. As he was running towards the bed, I threw a pillow at him and he fell, cutting his forehead, above his left eye. Blood was everywhere! I felt bad, but he is doing surprisingly well.

Do not call C.P.S.! This is how it looked a couple hours later.

Obama in a Bottle

Jeff Herold — 2008-07-28T13:32:31-07:00

Late last night, I got back from Denver, where I spent a couple of days with aunts and uncles, cousins, and 2nd cousins. Saturday was our long video shoot. We got footage of Barrack Obama in his bottle for obamainabottle.com (site will be up soon). It will be on YouTube.com and other places around the ‘net. I enjoyed my short trip and the weather was great.

Here is a photo of my aunt Lee that could be use as blackmail someday. Right-click to download!

Oliver!

Jeff Herold — 2008-07-21T22:36:33-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, Renea and I went to see Oliver! at the Broadway Palm Theatre. When we arrived, we saw Renea’s mom, Jon, Kalie, and Nathan (Renea’s sister’s two kids). Last year, we saw The Full Monty. Before the show there is a pretty good food buffet. Even though it’s a long drive, it’s worth it.

Is That A Toy Snake?

Jeff Herold — 2008-07-14T22:13:32-07:00

This afternoon, Josh asked his mom about the big, toy snake in the backyard, near the wall. She didn’t know what he was talking about. That’s when I came into the room and got a glimps of it before it moved and we are were confirmed that it was a real snake. Josh and I went out with a rake and couldn’t find it. It must’ve found a quick hiding place or went over the wall. It looked like this, a Coachwhip, because it appeard to have a reddish tint to it.

We didn’t go swimming today!

Monsoon Is Here!

Jeff Herold — 2008-07-09T21:08:30-07:00

Today was the first really big rainfall for The Valley this monsoon season. Before I got home, Renea and Skyler played on the front porch. I was running around town, doing some errands, and when it poured down so hard, all the cars stopped. I couldn’t see more than 10 feet in front of the van. It was crazy! Overall, it was the heaviest rain in a decade out here.

Big Bug!

Jeff Herold — 2008-07-02T19:36:02-07:00

Tonight, while swimming, Skyler and I discovered a big bug on the bottom of the pool right before we jumped in. It was a rather large scorpion, taking a long sleep.

Portraits #3

Jeff Herold — 2008-06-30T19:12:30-07:00

We got our photos back from Kiddie Kandids today and they turned out great. Skyler and his cousin got their annual pictures taken, plus individuals. They agreed to take turns fussing, so it wasn’t very easy to get done. After the photo shoot, they decided to go swimming and had a blast!

Check out all the photos here.

Isn’t he a big boy?

No Cavities!

Jeff Herold — 2008-06-26T12:45:54-07:00

This morning, I took Skyler to his first dental visit while Renea was downtown for jury duty. The office was quite a drive (and during rush hour), but it was well worth it. The staff was super friendly and really made Skyler feel comfortable for his orientation session. They even took x-rays and scrapped his teeth a little. He enjoyed seeing and handling all of the equipment, including the water spray that got us all a little wet. I am very proud of him and how well he behaved today.

Here is a scan of a Polaroid that was taken during our visit. Notice he is using a giant toothbrush to clean the giant set of teeth. He loved it.

Grandpa Whitehair

Jeff Herold — 2008-06-24T21:48:58-07:00

Yesterday, my last remaining grandfather died.

He had a stroke and passed away later in the hospital. This happened during all the frantic efforts of his sons and daughters making quick arrangements to fly out to Florida. My parents are going out there later this week for the funeral.

Next summer, we were thinking about taking another family trip to the Orlando area and spend some time with him and Grandma Donna. I also just had a conversation with my dad about grandpa the other day.

Fishing. Pontoon boating. Sitting at the bar and watching him cook the fish. Throwing me in the swimming pool. Eating the fish. Cursing! His place in Michigan was an adventure every time. And that white hair. That hair was always white for as long as I can remember. Grandpa Whitehair (of sometimes Whitehead). I have many fond memories of my grandpa.

It’s kinda surreal that I’ve been spending extra time with my dad lately and that Father’s Day wasn’t that long ago. I was thinking about including a photo in this entry and I decided to use this one. It’s a photo of my dad and his dad, looking out on Saguaro Lake, right before our excursion on the Desert Belle in March 2006. The rest of the photos are here.

Though you can’t see their faces, I know they both had calm smiles and sincere eyes. That is a memory I want to remember.

I wish I could walk through this photo and give them both a hug. I’ll have to settle for hugging my dad. That sounds nice.

Death and The Road

Jeff Herold — 2008-06-19T20:21:55-07:00

I finished reading The Road by Cormac McCarthy (author of No Country For Old Men). It only took two days because it was relatively short, but it was powerful. The style was very fluid and the description was beautiful, but sometimes I got lost and had to re-read a line here and there because of lack of quotations. Although I did not prefectly understand every word used to describe the scene, it still felt real.

I was prompted to get this book because of the themes: father-son relationships, survival, and the end-of-the-world (having read many short stories on this topic). The main characters were a father and his young son. They were traveling along the roads towards the south and come across many obstacles, including hungry cannibals (food was seldom to be found). Trust and love was very evident in their relationship.

There is a movie version due later this year and it looks promising in that it follows the book pretty well, according to what I’ve read.

Also, I downloaded the new Coldplay album this week and thought that the last “official” track was very powerful and goes along with the story I read. It’s called Death and All His Friends. Despite the title, the lyrics of the song are really uplifting and reminds us to take each day, one at a time. The ending matches the book I read perfectly. I highly reccommend getting this album.

Chili Cookoff

Jeff Herold — 2008-06-18T20:13:07-07:00

Skyler and I tagged along with my dad up to Flagstaff for a chili cookoff, sponsored by an electrical supply company there. He helped out at a booth for a new contractor’s association and met people interested in his training program.

I tasted some of the chili and they were all very different. The rest of the time I took photos and short video clips of the event. Skyler loved seeing the trains go by on the nearby track. One time we walked up pretty close and watched. He also enjoyed playing in the dirt.

I Love Being A Father And A Son

Jeff Herold — 2008-06-15T19:29:17-07:00

Yesterday, after swim lessons, we came home and rested for a bit before going to the J.W. Marriott Resort to spend the rest of the day with my family. The lazy river was fun and it was an adventure just maneuvering around the drinking Army members. After our water excitement, we ate some food and watched Monsters, Inc. in the hotel room.

I love my son and my father. I also love my stepson. Josh gave me a fun card and chocolate cake for Father’s Day. I think I’ll have another piece tonight...

Flagstaff For Father's Day

Jeff Herold — 2008-06-13T20:45:02-07:00

Ok, so technically Fathers’ Day sin’t until Sunday, but the three of us went on a short trip overnight to Flagstaff to check on dad’s training class and hang out. We had a good meal at Outback Steakhouse afterwards. I rented a Mustang Convertible and we enjoyed the drive with the top down. When we got closer to Phoenix, however, we decided to put it back up and crank the AC because it was over one hundred degrees in the Valley.

Hero

Jeff Herold — 2008-06-11T22:07:28-07:00

Skyler and I were playing outside this afternoon while Renea was out. I let our dogs in the backyard with us, but Gambit decided to go back inside soon after I got the hose out and started spraying the plants, Skyler, and Storm. Storm kept jumping up at the water. Then she fell.

She fell into the pool! I took the time to take my shoes off, but kept my socks, jeans, and shirt on. Skyler just smiled and watched me save the dog. She owes me big time.

Earlier today, we had a meeting to get Skyler into a preschool program for the next school year. Renea and I are both excited that he will be starting school again, but I guess I’m in charge of his homework.

Yesterday, we saw Kung Fu Panda at the new Harkins Norterra for Renea’s birthday. Skyler had more fun playing on the metal bars in front of our seats then the movie. His tantrums finally made us seriously reconsider taking him to a movie anytime soon.

Reading a Movie

Jeff Herold — 2008-06-05T23:31:01-07:00

Tonight, Renea and I watched The Orphanage and it was really good. I was proud that she decided to watch the movie after we realized it was a foreign film! I jumped once or twice from scary moments, sitting next to Skyler, who was watching a new Go Diego Go! DVD on the laptop (with headphones).

I’ve also been taking a training class all week for English as a Second Language requirement for Arizona teachers. My small group visited a Filipino restaurant that also included a grocery and check cashing section. As soon as we walked in, we heard a young lady singing karaoke to a Britney Spears song. The food was cafeteria-style, but was pretty good. We have to give group presentations tomorrow and I helped get Persian music for another group. While looking up traditional and modern music from Iran, I came across a music video on YouTube that I’ve been playing a lot the past couple of days. It’s a song by Chris de Burgh (Lady in Red) and the first pop group from Iran, Arian Band. I really like it. Here’s a link to the song (or just click on it below).

Potty Training Update: Skyler has been using the toilet on his own and both Renea and I are amazed on how well he’s doing these past few days. It helps to stay home and let him run around the house in only a shirt!

Big Kid Pool

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-31T23:30:25-07:00

Today, I can proudly say that Skyler has graduated from the little kids pool with mommy and daddy. He tried the regular pool and joined another kid and two instructors in their lane. Skyler cried for a few minutes, but he got over it and ended up having a great time.

He also received his very first swim ribbon.

Indiana Jones, Expelled, and a Major Announcement

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-30T21:33:36-07:00

Last night my brother came over and we watched some YouTube videos and then went to see the documentary Expelled. It was very thought-provoking and re-affirmed my faith in God and Intelligent Design. I really enjoyed it.

Today, Renea and I dropped off Skyler at his daycare and had the van and car washed and then the van detailed. While waiting for the detail, Renea and I saw the new Indiana Jones movie. It was a fun movie. When I’m that old, I plan on using special effects to make me appear invincible, just like Indy.

Major Announcement: Skyler recently has started using the toilet (with the help of not wearing diapers) and today did both restroom options (no, not the dryer/towel)!

Watch Out Recycle Bins!

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-28T17:52:27-07:00

Ashley and Patrick drove back to California today to see his mother. They had rented some sort of luxury car (like for old farts). I guess it’s very difficult to manuever.

Numb Mouths

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-29T17:47:09-07:00

Josh had all four wisdom teeth removed yesterday. Renea had a filling and a temporary crown put in this morning and then this afternoon I had a filling replaced. So, there have been some funny sounds coming from our mouths lately. We need to find a pediatrics dentist for Skyler this summer.

I do, however, really like our new dentist’s office. It’s very modern and the staff is very friendly.

We Saw Jesus!

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-25T22:45:06-07:00

Actually, we saw the actor who played Jesus in The Passion of the Christ. Renea and I took Skyler to my parents' church today, but dropped him off at the child center. It was packed - we sat in the back corner. Jim Caviezel was interviewed by senior paster, Terry Crist. It was a very inspiring moment and Jim's main message was that we need to be "courageous Christians".

Ashley and Patrick Arrive

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-24T22:12:58-07:00

Last night we celebrated Josh and his cousin, Kaleigh's graduation at Renea's mom's house. Ashley and her boyfriend, Patrick, arrived later in the evening from Monterrey, California. They are staying with us for a few days. There were a lot of people and good food. I spent a lot of time outside, playing with Skyler.

Graduation Day

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-23T22:12:07-07:00

Tonight was Josh's high school graduation at the Maricopa County Events Center. It took us a lot longer to get there than the duration of the ceremony. Josh was the last student to check in, so he was the last to walk across the stage and get his diploma. The camera captured his smile and panned to follow him all the way back to his seat. I ordered the DVD of the ceremony because my camera lost power at that moment.

However, I did take some nice shots earlier in the afternoon.

Last Day of School

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-22T12:44:08-07:00

Today was the last day of the 2007-2008 school year and Renea and I had a half day with students, then the rest of the afternoon without. The year seemed to go by so fast and now it's summertime! I have two graduate classes in June and then both Renea and I are working summer school in July. I have some website and video projects to work on this summer and I hope to take Renea to some movies and use our restaurant gift cards that we've accumulated in the last few months.

Bro's Birthday

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-21T12:37:19-07:00

Last night we went to my parents' house and celebrated my brother's birthday, along with watching the last performance of American Idol. Wikiki Meatballs and Pineapple Cake were on the menu. Yummy!

I (Don't) Like It!

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-05T12:19:27-07:00

Skyler left me a couple of voicemails on my way home from running some errands.
I (Don't) Like It

Skyler's 3rd Birthday Party

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-18T10:16:51-07:00

Today is Skyler's official birthday, but we had his party yesterday. Friends and family came to spend time with the big boy. We heated the pool to about 90 degrees! It was a good party and everyone had a great time. I took lots of photos, so check them out!

It's 5 AM and I've Been Up For A While Now

Jeff Herold — 2008-05-01T05:05:59-07:00

Last night, Renea and I took Skyler for a trip to NextCare. He just happened to put Regan, from The Exorcist, to shame with some projected vile, immediately after I was inquiring how he was feeling earlier. Renea spend a few hours with him and then Josh watched him a for a bit. Renea and I have been taking time off work to spend time with him at home. He hasn't had a fever, but still has a bad stomach virus that is going around. So, today I am staying home with him again. I am glad, though, because I get to miss a staff meeting at work!

This past night, though, has been a struggle dealing with Skyler's sickness and current state of "terrible two-ness". Sometimes he says he wants something, but when given the item, he refuses it. And then cries because he wants it. Then, he says he doesn't want it. And then cries because he wants it. Then, says he doesn't want it. And then cries because...

Desert Trek

Jeff Herold — 2008-04-24T19:12:29-07:00

Today, I had planned to stay home from work to work on finishing up my graduate school classes, but Skyler started getting sick last night. He got the stomach flu and I spent the day with him. We played and had lots of fun. I even got some work done. Later in the afternoon, we took the trash to the curb and then decided to hike for a bit in the desert. Since he was only in his diapers, I put him on my shoulders. We saw the "owey-cactus" and some birds. He liked seeing our house from back there.

Papa Stu and Grama Gwen

Jeff Herold — 2008-04-21T19:12:07-07:00

This weekend I drove us to Durango, Colorado to visit Papa Stu and Grama Gwen. Our theme song was Shambala by Three Dog Night. Skyler would sometimes sing the chorus and got mad if Renea or I sang it! Overall, though, he did really well and it was a very pleasant trip. I decided to book us at a Hampton Inn in Gallup, New Mexico on the way up there. The weather was perfect the entire weekend and it was good to not have plans - just hang out and relax. Skyler loved going for rides on Papa Stu's tractor, scaring the dogs in his monster voice, and playing with his grandpa's toy train. Here are photos of our visit.

Death and That Other Thing

Jeff Herold — 2008-04-15T22:32:51-07:00

Renea and I used a "tax guy" this year to help with getting our taxes due down a lot. I learned my lesson and will never drive to the post office after the work day on April 15th. Tonight I went to our local post office to read a bunch of signs stating that it was too late to get it postmarked today, so I had to drive a few miles to another city. When I got close to my destination, I saw lots of cars backed up, thinking there was some rock concert or sporting event. No, it was about 1000 vehicles/people waiting to get into this giant parking lot to drop off tax returns. It took about an hour in line, but I had talk radio to listen to, so I wasn't too upset.

NASCAR? No way!

Jeff Herold — 2008-04-11T23:07:21-07:00

Well, I did what I thought I'd never do: go to a real NASCAR event. My brother invited my dad, Joe, and myself to the Bashas' 200 race, which was part of an entire weekend of different races. The feeling I got when I walked up the steps to see dozens of cars on their practice runs was amazing. Even more amazing was walking along the fence and feeling my whole body tremble when the pace car jetted into the pits and every massive engine exploded instantly to gain speed.

Talk Radio LIVE!

Jeff Herold — 2008-04-08T23:16:47-07:00

I dragged Renea to an event at the Maricopa County Events Center to see Dennis Prager, Michael Medved, and Hugh Hewitt, moderated by State Treasurer Dean Martin. It was a forum based on written questions from the audience. We had good seats and enjoyed it, discussing issues the entire trip home. "Talking" was one of the pieces of advice for a successful marriage.

QT!

Jeff Herold — 2008-04-07T23:16:09-07:00

Bronson and I made our weekly trip to QT after his music therapy session. When we went back to the van, I just had to get out the camera and take this photo.

Missing "Happy Birthday To You" Twice

Jeff Herold — 2008-04-05T19:36:43-07:00

Skyler was invited to two birthday parties around the same time and he left one early to go to the other...and missed singing Happy Birthday To You. Renea said they had been practicing all week for it. He still had a lot of fun flying a Buzz Lightyear kite and playing on the swings. He is now taking a much-needed nap.

Hockey and The Office

Jeff Herold — 2008-04-03T23:56:22-07:00

Tonight I met up with Bronson and his family for a Coyote's hockey game. I left before the third period, while they were losing 3-0, but had a great time.

When I got home, I started watching the recorded DVD of The Office episodes that were running as repeats tonight. At the end of the first show, there was a teenager playing the theme song on the piano at someone's home. Towards the end of his performance, text came across the screen which read "In Memoriam, Nathan Robinson". I immediately Googled the name and found out that he was a young teenager who passed away a couple of weeks ago. It was very sad to learn about his death, but it also was really good to see something like this being aired on national television, and as a result, all over the internet.

Juno - Not The Alaskan City!

Jeff Herold — 2008-03-28T20:16:13-07:00

This afternoon, Renea and I had a half-day and we went out to lunch at Arriba's and then saw Juno at the mall theatre. It's been out for a couple of months, but I've been wanting to see it ever since. The movie really brought me to tears, not because it was sad, but because it was honest and dramatically dealt with a very serious issue that many families have to face (teen pregnancy). I knew the story before I saw it, but thought it covered the pro-life idea pretty well. Ellen Page, the young lead actress, was nominated for many awards, including an Oscar. I highly recommend it to anyone and will probably buy the DVD when it comes out.

Easter Sunday

Jeff Herold — 2008-03-23T20:27:02-07:00

It was the last day of our Spring Break and we spent time at both mine and Renea's parents' house (but, not after making a pit stop to meet The Easter Bunny). Skyler got lots of candy and toys at both places and really enjoyed seeing all of his relatives.

Saguaro Lake on the Desert Belle

Jeff Herold — 2008-03-21T21:41:44-07:00

Renea, Skyler, and I joined my parents and grandma on a late afternoon riverboat ride on the Desert Belle. It was a very nice time and the weather was perfect. Skyler enjoyed jumping up and down and steering the boat.

Weird Rash or Bite?

Jeff Herold — 2008-03-20T22:33:03-07:00

After a few minutes of playing in the other room this morning, Renea noticed a mark on Skyler's nose. He didn't scratch it or complain about it at all. My response to it when I soon woke up was that maybe I bit him while sleepwalking. Obviously, I was not taken seriously and so a second opinion was needed. Renea took him to the pediatrician's a little while later and the doctor could not diagnose it. It appears to be getting better, though. Very strange.

Early Easter Eggs

Jeff Herold — 2008-03-19T22:28:20-07:00

This morning, Skyler and his mommy made Easter eggs and made daddy promise to eat a lot of them this week. He had fun with all the colors.

Arizona Science Center

Jeff Herold — 2008-03-18T20:57:03-07:00

Today, we went to the Arizona Science Center and had a lot of fun. Grandma Barb got to go with us. Skyler saw lots of dinosaurs and bugs! Here's a photo taken right before he started getting his hand caught behind the glass, trying to touch the dead bugs.

After the museum, we went to my parents' house for some leftover corned beef and cabbage. Then we played some dice games. I won at Farkle!

St. Patrick's Day Swimming

Jeff Herold — 2008-03-17T23:10:37-07:00

Today, I picked up Bronson, Trenton, and Amberlin to come over to play and swim with Skyler. We all had fun. Skyler had some sweet dance moves outside. I wore my green rugby shirt for the rest of the day so I wouldn't get pinched.

Grandma Barb Arrives!

Jeff Herold — 2008-03-16T22:54:49-07:00

Yesterday, Grandma Barb and my parents came over for the day to hang out, eat, and play a very fun and close game of Phase 10. Our van was in the shop, getting worked on and won't be ready until tomorrow morning!

While we were playing the game, the topic of The Polar Express and my blog about it from December. My grandma and mom watched the movie this morning and went to the links in my blog about Grand Rapids and Herpolsheimer’s. They were browsing photos from the Grand Rapids Public Library website and saw a small thumbnail of some students at Central High School. My grandma thought that maybe, by chance, she would recognize someone in the photo. When she clicked on it, she realized that she was actually IN the photo!

Click on it!

Just now, I found a photo on the same website that features Harry Houdini, of whom I've been reading and listening to an audiobook lately. In the photo, he is performing an escape trick in front of the Grand Rapids Herald building (circa 1920).

All Region Team, MVP, etc.

Jeff Herold — 2008-03-03T20:26:55-07:00

Josh has his final end of the season soccer awards night. There was some great bbq food! Josh was awarded an honor for one of the best players in the region (coach-chosen) and Most Valuable Player for his team (team-chosen). He was a co-captain and was a really great leader for the Mountain Ridge Mountain Lions this season. He and his co-captain were the main stars of the DVD I made, which had a slideshow and short movie montage.

Green Crayons Taste The Best

Jeff Herold — 2008-02-24T21:08:51-07:00

This afternoon, I caught Skyler in our room, under a clothes basket, eating a green crayon. Notice his face and the floor. They are both marked with a green color. I didn't try the crayon, but I assume that it's not that tasty.

I'm currently watching the 80th Academy Awards and I have been wiping tears during certain parts, especially the In Memorium montage.

Vantage Point

Jeff Herold — 2008-02-23T21:28:27-07:00

I'm finally back to normal. Being sick isn't very fun - just a little. We've all been busy lately, but after a second awesome swim lesson for Skyler, we dropped him off at my parents house to see a movie. They took him to the park, went shopping at Dollar Tree (for toys, of course), and then shared a Blizzard at Dairy Queen.

Vantage Point was simply an exciting movie and I got a kick out of Renea and half of the audience complaining in between each scene (or vantage point).

Happy Puke-Day!

Jeff Herold — 2008-02-13T19:25:16-07:00

I turned 32 today.

After work, Skyler and Renea took me out to the movies to see The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything: A VeggieTales Movie. I was still sick and tired, but managed to have a good time. Then, we went next door to Souper Salad. After my first plate, Skyler decided to get his head stuck in between two metal bars, while Renea was getting some more food. I rescued him and picked him up to calm him down in the corner, near the salad bar and window. After a few seconds, he puked all over my shirt. Luckily, I was wearing an undershirt. We immediately packed up and left. At least I got to eat my free meal!

I Voted Today!

Jeff Herold — 2008-02-05T19:51:39-07:00

I voted for Mike Huckabee and I don't feel that I "threw my vote away". Enough said.

Skyler was really cranky after I came home and placed my "I Voted Today" sticker on his shirt.

They Win, But Everyone's Sick!

Jeff Herold — 2008-01-28T20:04:19-07:00

Thursday night, Renea and I went to Josh's last soccer game, which was Senior Night. His mom and dad walked with him down the field with the other seniors and parents. I took photos and videos during the game. Shortly after it started, it began to rain. It didn't stop and gradually got worse. Then the wind came. I continued to use my camera under a couple of roof overhangs. Renea eventually joined me and we waded through the cold and the water together.

Of course, the game ended the second 40 minute half in a tie. So, they took a quick break and played another 10 minute overtime period. No score. Another break. Another 10 minutes...and his team finally scored! It was well worth it.

Now, soon after that eventful game, Renea, Skyler, and I started to get sick. She took Skyler to NextCare Saturday morning to each get diagnosed with an ear infection. I was having chest pains and finally went in on Sunday morning to get x-rays and blood tests done to confirm bronchitis. When we went to work this morning, it seemed like half the campus was absent, including many teachers and office workers.

Thankfully, our home is becoming more well now and will continue our medicine this week.

Heath

Jeff Herold — 2008-01-23T21:30:32-07:00

Yesterday, Heath Ledger died from an apparent overdose of sleeping pills. I don't care if he did it deliberately or not. It struck me significantly when I came home yesterday and visited The Drudge Report to read about him on the headline. He was about my age and had a kid about Skyler's age. I liked seeing him in movies, like A Knight's Tale and The Patriot. I briefly discussed him with my classes today and some initially didn't know who he was and some started talking with their peers about him. It's interesting that just recently, I was reading online about how his performance in the upcoming Batman movie, The Dark Knight, The Joker, was being criticized and lauded at the same time. Renea and I saw I Am Legend last weekend in an IMAX theatre and it had an exclusive trailer for the Summer movie. I am excited to see it, yet know I will feel bittersweet because of his death.

It's a Sunshine Day

Jeff Herold — 2008-01-21T21:46:47-07:00

Right now I'm listening to the Brady Bunch song, It's a Sunshine Day and reflecting on our weekend. It was busy, yet peaceful. I had a few minutes outside with Skyler today and we looked out onto our great backyard view. I really think that the desert beyond our house is so awesome. It makes me think how awesome God is and the amazing creations that are all around us. He is present everywhere and reminds us that we need to keep moving forward, just like Walt Disney said and is the main theme from Meet the Robinsons.

"There's really no secret to our approach. We keep moving forward – opening new doors and doing new things – because we're curious, and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths."
– Walt Disney

6 Miles

Jeff Herold — 2008-01-15T22:55:22-07:00

Renea and I decided to start exercising, so she is using the treadmill and I rode my mountain bike for the first time in many moons. I rode offroad for the first half and really enjoyed the fresh air and quiet atmosphere.

My grad classes start this week and I already started working on them. I should be able to graduate in about a year and then everyone can call me Professor Jeff.

Oh, no! Falling!

Jeff Herold — 2008-01-14T22:58:19-07:00

Last night, my dad came over to pick up some gadgets and gizmos, but spent some time playing with Skyler, too. It was a nice visit.

Thomas

Jeff Herold — 2008-01-12T23:05:50-07:00

I heard the song and watched the music video for Soul Asylum's song, Runaway Train (1992), earlier this week and had a memory of watching it growing up. It features missing children of all ages and ends with a young toddler who immediately reminded me of Skyler (same age, too). Thomas Gibson is his name and he would be an adult right now. I did some reading on his case and found his dad's email address from one of his websites. Below is what I sent to him and what he replied back.

Ugh

Jeff Herold — 2008-01-09T19:07:01-07:00

I've been sick for a couple of days (still am) and took off work yesterday. Actually, I had to go into work to make sure my lesson plans were ready and then waited for Renea to finish a meeting with a parent that took almost two hours! Ugh! As soon as I got home, I went to bed, watching recorded episodes of The Twilight Zone. Later, when Renea and Skyler came home, Skyler wanted to play with me...and we did for a long time. It was fun.

Kingdom of The Almighty

Jeff Herold — 2008-01-03T21:59:23-07:00

Ok, so yesterday, we watched The Kingdom. Not only was it a very well-made movie and had my heart beating rapidly throughout most of it, because of the level of pure excitement. With our current war on terror and my own feelings towards radical extremism, this movie really made me feel powerful emotions. The last scene of the movie almost ruined it for me, until I went online and read what others thought. Most made it sound like violence doesn't solve anything, but a couple I read believe that there is a true difference between people who want "everyone" dead versus those who want only the "bad guys" dead. Tremendous difference.

Today we watched Even Almighty. I enjoyed the first movie, Bruce Almighty, but this one stars Steve Carell and since Renea and I are suffering from lack of new episodes of The Office, due to the ongoing writers strike, this was an excellent alternative. Skyler loved all the animals and the flood scene at the end. There were a couple times we danced in front of the TV during a song. The movie had a very positive message and was very funny. Watching some of the DVD extras, I really gained a greater appreciation for the film crew and how Christian values were incorporated into the story. I remember hearing an interview last summer with the director and Michael Medved. While listening to the radio, I was very impressed with the man and his desire to produce Hollywood movies for families.

Last week, for New Year's Eve, Renea and I took Skyler into the hot tub and listened to part of Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve. Our bedroom TV was positioned so we could see it from outside, too. Only one of us made it to midnight.

The Polar Express

Jeff Herold — 2007-12-26T09:51:34-07:00

Last night, after returning from my parents', the three of us watched one of Skyler's Christmas presents, The Polar Express, together on our bed. Renea and I noticed that it had a couple of references to Grand Rapids, Michigan. After the movie, I looked up some excellent information on it and learned that the author grew up in Grand Rapids. The department store that the train passes was Herpolsheimer’s and as I looked at some photos from the Grand Rapids Public Library website, I instantly had the memory of visiting the shopping center well after it's heyday and the popular monorail that was attached to the basement ceiling. It wasn't the fondest of memories, since I was too old to ride the monorail, but my younger brother gladly took a seat and traveled around, while I sat and watched.

I then looked up and saw photos of Creston High School, from long ago. It's pretty neat to see old photos of places that have a prominent place in the memories of my mind. It also saddens me to think that two of my other schools are no longer existing: Huff Elementary and Northeast Middle. I couldn't find any articles on Northeast Middle, which is very disheartening since I teach at a middle school and I tell my students all the time that middle school was probably the best schooling experience of my life. My opinion is that the Grand Rapids Public Schools district has failed on so many levels and the city economy is far from what it used to be. I have personally contacted the principal and a secretary of my high school and got a very lame and unprofessional response regarding current teachers. I would have loved to tell them what I do now! It digs the wound even deeper because I remind myself that my graduating class never had a high school reunion and probably never will.

So, with that...I am so happy and blessed that I moved away from that decaying town, ventured West, and met my wife, Renea. We have a beautiful child of our own and share two young adults that have bright futures ahead. Yes, I am very blessed.

Christmas 2007

Jeff Herold — 2007-12-25T18:39:49-07:00

Yesterday we went to the 4:30PM service at my parents' church. It was nice to finally get to church - it's been quite a while and I plan on us going again on Sunday. Then we went to Jon and Margo's for some presents and Mexican food (and shrimp!). Ashley shared some of her military experiences with us and even taught some words and phrases (some of which sounded naughty!).

Then, today, we opened more presents at home and then Josh and Ashley were off to see their dad, while Renea and I took Skyler over to my parents' house. We got to open presents again! Jon and Margo came over and we played Phase 10, but Renea and I had to tag team. There was no official winner, but I am the only one writing about the game, so I declare me as winner.

Hot Tub

Jeff Herold — 2007-12-23T09:40:20-07:00

Last week, we started using our new hot tub. It's been very nice not having to worry daily about pool finishes and legal matters. We have a super remote that controls everything and is well worth it. Currently, we are taking hot tub reservations for 2008.

Christmas Tree Choo-Choo Train

Jeff Herold — 2007-12-17T11:38:50-07:00

Tonight, Skyler took an ornament off the Christmas tree we put up last weekend. It was a gold-colored locomotive. He brought it over to his train table and started playing with it. He had fun with his newly-found train at the amusement of mommy and daddy.

Going Out Of My Way

Jeff Herold — 2007-12-15T23:44:13-07:00

Tonight I dropped off a movie rental, but before that, I drove out of the way to see my brother start his first shift at Bashas'. He moved into his new apartment earlier today and has had many other recent changes in his life. He was really happy to see me and I was really happy to wish him well.

Birthday Party Fun and Friends

Jeff Herold — 2007-12-03T22:59:36-07:00

This weekend, we went to one of Skyler's friend's birthday party. Aleks turned two and the theme was "Cars" - from the movie. Skyler knows that movie rather well since we've seen it every day for the past couple of weeks.

Varsity Soccer Captain

Jeff Herold — 2007-11-30T16:20:34-07:00

Josh and his good friend, Rod (Brazil), are this year's captains of the Mountain Ridge High School varsity soccer team. I will be taking photos and video throughout the season for the team's end-of-the-season DVD.

Thanksgiving 2007

Jeff Herold — 2007-11-26T22:13:46-07:00

Last Thursday and Friday, we celebrated Thanksgiving with family around town. Skyler got to play with lots of kids and have fun. I am very thankful for my friends and family. Also, I am thankful for our military, especially Ashley, for serving and protecting our way of life.

Busy, Busy

Jeff Herold — 2007-11-19T23:33:56-07:00

Last weekend I did a video shoot at the home all morning and worked on websites. Renea, Skyler, and I were also got sick and then Josh got sick yesterday. An extra class period has been taken on by Renea and I at work and it seems like the business is not going away anytime soon. This is a short work week because of Thanksgiving, so we will enjoy the time off to spend with family and catch up on projects. Our backyard is still on pause while we sort out the dispute with the pool finish manufacturer that caused thousands of dollars in damage.

We can make it!

Skyler Calls Daddy

Jeff Herold — 2007-11-13T21:29:48-07:00

Yesterday, after I got off the phone with Renea and Skyler, he decided to call me back, but I had just turned my phone off because I was on my way home. He tried leaving me some messages and I just listened to them this afternoon.

Play Skyler's Voicemail Messages

Veterans Day

Jeff Herold — 2007-11-12T22:31:31-07:00

I have been thinking a lot about our veterans lately and I want to sincerely apologize, on behalf of our country, for all the disrespect and lack of gratitude our fellow Americans have shown through the years. This is especially important now, as more and more negative stories are repeated, including Hollywood movies. Let us all remember our past and current Veterans and be thankful for their service to the greatest country in the world.

Sleeping on the Job

Jeff Herold — 2007-11-10T16:12:41-07:00

After we returned from grocery shopping, Skyler got right to work, vacuuming the house.
He was so tired that he fell asleep before turning it off.

I am wrapping up another semester of my graduate classes through ASU. We have a longer weekend because of Veterans Day on Monday. I made a video to honor the veterans we have at our school and played it for over 1200 students and staff yesterday. We also had a flag raising ceremony with everyone at the start of classes.

How to Build a Pool in Only Three Months

Jeff Herold — 2007-11-07T20:20:16-07:00

Even though it should take about a month, it's been well over two months and our backyard is still not done. This week the pool had the wrong surface sprayed in. I guess a big mismatch of the formula occurred and it's a problem across the country. Last week we put in our garden lights and just finished putting rock around the perimeter. Today, the artificial grass installers didn't know that there were two sections to put in, so they will be returning tomorrow. Last month, the wrong pool tile was installed and had to be replaced. We've had multiple problems with the new brick wall, flagstone, and side gate.

On a positive note, I have been enjoying spending time in the backyard as I check on the building process. There have been some amazing sunsets and tonight I laid on the artificial grass and watched the stars.

Made My Day

Jeff Herold — 2007-11-01T21:34:47-07:00

Not only did our soccer team play their best game ever, I came home to read an email forwarded to me by our school's principal that really put a smile on my face:

Dear Mrs. Truett,

My children, ******** and ********, are in 7th grade at Hillcrest Middle School. I just wanted to let you know how happy my husband and I are with the education our kids are receiving. We are especially happy with one of ********'s teachers.

******** had a small problem with one of his projects in Jeff Herold's Drama class. Of course, being a 12 year old, he didn't bring it to my attention. I happened to look at his grades on line and was shocked!. My husband and I immediately sat down with him and discussed it and then e-mailed Jeff about our concerns. Our son was completely at fault! Jeff kept in constant contact with my husband and I by e-mail andf worked with, and encouraged ********, in a very fair and positive manner. Needless to say, we are very impressed with him as a teacher and as a role model for our young son. ******** learned valuable lessons about respect, responsibility, and honesty. Kudos to Jeff Herold for having such a positive impact on our son over such a small matter!

Thank you for your time. Happy Halloween!

********

Trick or Treat

Jeff Herold — 2007-10-31T22:24:22-07:00

Skyler took his mom and dad out to trick or treat around the neighborhood tonight. He loved walking around and collecting candy. Neighbors loved his Thomas the Train costume. Skyler was really scared of one of the neighbors' scary porch, but he ended up wanting to overcome his fears and see all the lights, music, and scary monsters.

Scholarship Presentation

Jeff Herold — 2007-10-23T20:47:18-07:00

Renea and I left work for a few minutes to witness Josh get his $5000 "big check" that he recently learned about. Here he is with the principal from his school. He also had a short interview and his photo taken for the school newspaper.

Another Double-Ear Infection

Jeff Herold — 2007-10-18T21:50:25-07:00

Skyler started out this morning with a fever and was diagnosed with a double-ear infection. He just had one right before our San Francisco trip. Renea stayed with him most of the day. I just watched an ER episode (#294) where one of the main character's young toddler fell off a jungle gym at the playground and went through some problems at the hospital. His crying sounded just like Skyler's.

No More B-I-N-K-Y

Jeff Herold — 2007-10-17T20:59:19-07:00

Ever since we lost Skyler's binky (pacifier) right before boarding the plane back to Phoenix a few days ago, he hasn't had one. Of course he cried for it a couple of times, but he is noticeably more mature and seems to be coping.

#2

Jeff Herold — 2007-10-13T19:32:02-07:00

Warning: The following update may offend some people, however, we don't care.

This morning, after swim lessons, Skyler went #2, all by himself, in his big-boy potty. He was sitting on it earlier in the morning and did a tiny bit of #1, but this second time really counted. We are very proud of him.

Papa Stu

Jeff Herold — 2007-10-11T19:15:50-07:00

Renea's dad visited us right when we came back from our California trip and left this morning. He enjoyed his stay and we all had a great time hanging out. Renea took yesterday off, so her and Skyler could spend more time. They went to Cabela's and looked at all the animals (taxidermal and live). He drove back to Durango, CO this morning. We plan on visiting him for Thanksgiving.

Back From San Fran

Jeff Herold — 2007-10-09T22:06:43-07:00

Last night we got back from our trip. We had a wonderful time and every moment was pleasant. Ashley and her boyfriend, Nick, spent some time with us on the weekend and Bill and Janie were excellent tour guides. My favorite site was Alcatraz and going on the tour. I took lots of photos and short movie clips, so I will be putting those online soon.

Sick

Jeff Herold — 2007-10-03T18:37:39-07:00

Skyler has been sick since Saturday afternoon with fevers and a double-ear infection. The week before, he took turns with his mom and I - we were all sick. I haven't officially worked since monday and I won't until next Tuesday, so this is my Fall break. Tomorrow morning we all get on a plane to see Uncle Bill, Aunt Janie, Ashley, her boyfriend (Nick), and Thomas the Train.

What Are They Doing?

Jeff Herold — 2007-09-27T22:10:03-07:00

This morning, Skyler was mesmerized at the workers digging around and making a general mess in his backyard. Later in the afternoon, he and his mom got to play in the dirt. Well, it was more playing and sitting comfortably in a chair.

Yesterday was Josh's 17th birthday. He celebrated by refereeing the Hillcrest soccer team (that he helps me coach) for their first game. He then had to zip to his own soccer practice. Recently, Josh was awarded a $5000 college scholarship for an essay his wrote last year in school. Not bad.

2-2-1

Jeff Herold — 2007-09-19T22:30:56-07:00

Renea and I took turns spending this past weekend with Josh at his soccer tournament in Tucson. We used the TomTom navigation unit I bought a few days ago. His team won two, lost two, and tied once. Josh received his first ever yellow card, which was immediately changed into a red card. He had to come out of the game and sit out for the next one. He claims it was a sacrifice to prevent a goal. It was fun watching him purposely push the other guy in the back.

Celebrating Early

Jeff Herold — 2007-09-10T22:43:30-07:00

We visited Skyler's grandpa yesterday and celebrated my dad's birthday a couple days early. In two years, we will have to have a big party for the big six-o. Everyone helped put our old grill back together, take apart a sandbox, and play a game of Phase 10 (I won). Later on we went for a nice swim.

Back in the Swing of Things

Jeff Herold — 2007-09-05T20:43:53-07:00

We arrived home yesterday afternoon, but I am still exhausted and I have dirty clothes all over the place. Skyler enjoyed seeing all of his relatives and was absolutely wonderful on the plane - both ways. Today, I reviewed with my students the comments from the substitute and we were all happy (some of them even clapped). My brother and I took well over 1000 photos of our cousin's wedding and family get-togethers. There is also a couple hours worth of video for the ceremony and reception (which will be fun, but time-consuming to edit). Selected photos will be posted online soon.

It Had to Be a Monday

Jeff Herold — 2007-08-27T16:04:51-07:00

Today was very busy! Renea left work and took Skyler to his pediatrician because he was sick all weekend. We wanted some medicine just in case he gets worse during our trip in a couple days. After Renea dropped him back off at the sitter's, she went to get the prescription filled. Then the van wouldn't start. It needed a new battery. God was watching us and didn't want Skyler to be with Renea during the inconvenience, especially in this heat. She took the carseat out of the van, just in case it needed to be put in the Mustang. I put it back in the van later - no problem. Right now, Renea is taking Josh and Skyler to Urgent Care for Josh's shoulder for a potential soccer injury.

Blessed

Jeff Herold — 2007-08-21T23:01:08-07:00

Earlier tonight I was thinking: I am truly blessed.

No rush hour to work. Fun job. Lunch with wife. Son in great care.

Yup, I'm blessed.

Lifesaver: Baby Einstein

Jeff Herold — 2007-08-19T16:30:20-07:00

Skyler has been drooling a lot lately and seems more cranky than ever before. He may be getting a new tooth or two. He wouldn't go down for a nap today, so finally we decided to put on a Baby Einstein DVD of Mozart, Renea left to do some shopping, and he fell asleep after a few minutes. He's still asleep as I type this.

Big Hole

Jeff Herold — 2007-08-15T20:52:11-07:00

They started digging the other day and Skyler wanted to play in the hole, so we went in and spent time getting really dirty. He loved it, but hated getting out.

Preparing for the Big Dig

Jeff Herold — 2007-08-11T10:42:10-07:00

Sometime next week, our backyard will begin to look like it was bombarded with land mines. Hopefully everything will run smoothly and our dogs will be able to cope. We also start back to work/school with students on Monday, so we will be very busy and excited.

Ashley's New BF

Jeff Herold — 2007-08-06T21:38:48-07:00

Well, here's the photo that many people have been waiting for. Nick is also a Marine in language school. Ashley's boyfriend is planning on joining her when she meets up with us in California in October.

First Haircut!

Jeff Herold — 2007-08-05T20:26:13-07:00

Skyler decided his crazy hair was getting a little annoying, so he urged mommy and daddy to take him to get his first haircut. We stopped to buy some dum dums. He had one in each hand and actually seemed to enjoy the process until it was time for the electric shaver. He almost jumped into my arms and started to fuss, so we thought it was a good stopping point. We cleaned up his sticky hands and face and watched his mommy finish getting her haircut. Then we went out to eat at Garcia's and brought home a to-go order for Josh.

Home Alone, But Not

Jeff Herold — 2007-08-06T07:48:11-07:00

I am staying home alone today while workers from different companies are fixing minor things around the house for our one-year warranty. Right now there is a guy fixing a non-functioning ceiling light and another just called and said he was on his way to come fix our side gate and some cabinets. Tomorrow is the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year for Renea and I because it's back-to-school orientation day. Here we go!

Busy, Busy

Jeff Herold — 2007-08-01T15:01:10-07:00

Renea and I have been super busy with many different projects, including preparing for the upcoming school year. Josh got his schedule this afternoon and Skyler started with a new babysitter a couple days ago. I am looking forward to the weekend, despite how busy it will be!

Creativitiness

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-28T23:47:12-07:00

I know that's not a real word, but it describes the ideas that Renea and I have been working on this past week. She is amazing in the drive she has for the many side projects we are working on now. It's a lot of work, but I have been enjoying it.

Water Fun

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-20T22:16:45-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, Renea and Skyler visited some friends for some backyard fun.

Inside, they played with a wooden train table set and later on, convinced me to agree to purchasing one for us.

Stuck in the Middle With You

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-19T21:44:18-07:00

Not only a sweet song that gets you moving, it's also what happened to Skyler recently. We noticed this week that his fremula is stuck in between his two front teeth. He doesn't seem to mind, but Renea took him to the doctor yesterday, who said it's not a big deal, but that we could take him to a dentist. We will check on it.

This is not a photo of Skyler, but is a picture of a patient who has a torn fremula. Notice it is right above the middle two teeth. Skyler's is stuck between those two teeth.

Lights and All Wet

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-16T22:20:06-07:00

Skyler and I went out on the back porch a couple of times tonight and enjoyed watching the lightning and feeling the rain. We made wet hand and footprints on the concrete. He got to stay up late and have some fun with Daddy, whose been recently wishing for the rain every day.

Men Being Men

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-14T20:26:13-07:00

This afternoon, Uncle Mike, my brother, Dad, and I went to the Men's Luxury Toy Expo and Auction at the new Cardinal Stadium (University of Phoenix Stadium). I had a great time and enjoyed seeing all the expensive and cool cars, boats, bikes, and other guy stuff. It was the first time I had been to the stadium. Afterwards, we went to Cabela's across the street to look at guns, knives, stuffed animals, and other manly stuff.

Helping Mommy Work

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-12T21:45:33-07:00

Today, we worked on the grout for the newly-installed tile for our laundry/dog room. I just exchanged the wet sponges, while they cleaned up the grout. Now, Gambit won't be able to make holes in the walls anymore. Renea had to patch up two already.

I Am Monk

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-10T22:36:22-07:00

While I was out running errands, Skyler pointed at the TV and said "Daddy" as this guy was on a commercial. Twice. I guess my OCD is pretty noticeable to him.

Wings, Robots, and Dance Music

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-08T22:35:34-07:00

Last night, I met my friend, Geoff, for chicken wings, Transformers on Arizona's largest movie screen in Scottsdale, and a house party, where he was one of the DJs. It was a good time.

Re-Arranging

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-06T23:21:44-07:00

Renea and I moved some furniture to different parts of the house tonight. She's still working as I type this. Hey, I am jumping up to help once in a while! Earlier, we watched The Muppet Movie DVD that I bought and showed Skyler. It has a frog (he loves them). It brought back a lot fo memories. Yesterday, I saw Live Free or Die Hard with Uncle Mike. We both loved it and agreed that it was over-the-top! The underwater swimming videos from earlier this week have been uploaded to the movies section.

Swimming Underwater

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-02T13:18:32-07:00

Sunday and today, we went swimming at Grandma's. I used my brand new underwater camera to take some photos. It was a lot of fun. Skyler is a fish. He looks so natural underwater.

Check out the photos.

Family Trips

Jeff Herold — 2007-07-01T07:56:42-07:00

This week, we worked on plans for going to Michigan (Renea, Skyler, and I) right before Labor Day and California (Josh, Renea, Skyler, and I) in the beginning of October. We will be going to my cousin's wedding in Michigan and seeing Ashley in California. Both trips will have site-seeing opportunities. Since Renea and I are teaching all summer, we have to wait until school starts to take vacations!

Distracted

Jeff Herold — 2007-06-24T19:21:29-07:00

I am nearly finished with a research paper and Powerpoint presentation for one of my grad. school classes. It would have been better to start earlier, but I am getting it done. Listening to music, playing with Skyler, eating, sleeping, helping Renea, watching TV, watching movies, and adding to my blog all contribute to my delay in finishing. It's worth it.

5 Years?

Jeff Herold — 2007-06-23T00:24:00-07:00

Thursday night, Renea and I took Skyler with us for dinner to celebrate our fifth anniversary. Yeah, I know, we could've gotten a sitter, but it was enjoyable because Skyler behaved rather well. It's been a roller coaster half a decade and I would not trade it for the world. Renea is the best woman I could ever live my life with and I appreciate all the little things she does that usually go unnoticed. She is an amazing wife and mother!

Kabobs and Choke-Holds

Jeff Herold — 2007-06-23T00:19:07-07:00

Wednesday, we went to my parents to eat dinner and hang out with my grandma Elsie and Uncle Mike. The food was good and Skyler got to play with Lukas, but towards the end of the night, they decided to strangle each other, just moments after playfully chasing one another around the house.

Choo-Choo Train

Jeff Herold — 2007-06-23T00:03:08-07:00

Last Sunday night, we went to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale, not far from my parents. The temperature was nice, due in part to the massive number of trees and a slight breeze. Our school's band instructor was performing the local party band, C.C. Ryder, on the stage. They played some really fun songs. We all went on the train and had a blast. I would definitely go again. Skyler had so much fun on the train and merry-go-round and then, later, dancing to the music (even with complete strangers). His grandpa and grandma bought him a pretty neat multi-colored light stick. It was Fathers Day and it was good to spend time with my dad and Skyler with his.

Still Busy

Jeff Herold — 2007-06-17T00:32:09-07:00

I feel like since school's been out for the summer that I've been more busy! My grad. classes are making me learn a lot and teaching reading skills to 2nd graders is very engaging. On the side, a couple of video and website projects have been adding to the burden (I'm working on one now). However, Renea has been very patient with me, despite my numerous moments of complaining. My biggest worry is missing out on spending time with Skyler.

I had Renea take this photo of Skyler and I with our new shirts from Threadless right before we went to a birthday party.

Swimmin' Fun!

Jeff Herold — 2007-06-12T22:20:59-07:00

This afternoon, Skyler and I took a dip in his new pool. He didn't like it that I took up so much room, so I got out and watched him play. Gambit was a little shy of the water, but inched in close enough for a smooch.

Busy Week

Jeff Herold — 2007-06-08T23:56:27-07:00

Sometimes being a teacher doesn't mean summers off. This week I started teaching reading to a small class to 2nd graders going into 3rd. Lisa, my team-teacher, just completed her first year of teaching and seems like a pro. It's been a fun ride so far.

A couple minutes ago I submitted a quiz, marking the end of my second week of graduate school. I've learned a lot already.

Storm, our female French Bulldog, started her heat cycle today, so we will be separating her and Gambit.

Tonight, we rented Night at the Museum. It was really good. Tomorrow, we have swim lessons, shoe shopping (because Renea sprayed the hose on Skyler in his underwear and shoes).

We Saw a Movie!

Jeff Herold — 2007-06-03T21:56:07-07:00

Renea and I took Skyler to his second movie (the last time was when he was only a few weeks old). I was shocked to see that prices were $7.50 for a matinee and that we needed a ticket for our two year old! We saw Shrek the Third. It was a really good movie and Skyler was pretty well-behaved. After the movie, we took a promo shot for the upcoming, The Simpsons Movie.

Family Grilling

Jeff Herold — 2007-06-03T21:49:10-07:00

On Friday we took Skyler to my parents house for swimming and dinner. Tony's family and his parents were there, too, so it was a larger get-together. Skyler had a fun time chasing Pablo around. Patrick and Pablo did pretty good with the chicken.

The Full Monty

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-30T21:54:56-07:00

Renea and I decided on short notice to attend today's lunch matinee of The Full Monty at the Broadway Palm Theatre. I knew the premise of the story, so it wasn't too much of a shocker. However, we were two of only a small number of "younger" audience members. Most of the crowd were senior citizens, including a charter bus group. The food was excellent and the atmosphere was nice. The show was awesome and I would really like to rent the movie soon. I was seriously impressed with the local theatre group and if it weren't for it being one of the last shows of the run, I would've wanted to go to another performance!

Can't Sleep

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-29T02:31:51-07:00

It's 2:30AM and I have been working on a couple projects for Hark! Angel Productions. For some reason I feel wide awake. My sleep cycle must be really off! Speaking of cycles, I biked yesterday morning for over and hour off and on roads. It's been a few days since I biked and it felt great.

Chats With Ashley

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-28T15:41:04-07:00

I just finished my second internet chat with Ashley and I must say that neither were exceptionally important, but at least I communicated with her. She is still in school, learning Arabic. Hopefully, she will visit home soon.
Chat with Ashley 5.16.07
Chat with Ashley 5.28.07

Potty Training

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-27T09:46:42-07:00

Today marks the first day of intensive potty training for Skyler. He has been playing with his "big boy seat" for a couple of days and he already did a "number one" on it this morning. However, he also did it again in his "big boy underwear" and didn't flinch.

School's Out and Birthday Toys

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-26T07:09:32-07:00

This week we all finished school for the year (but, I am starting grad school next week). It was pretty hectic for all of us. I managed to finish Skyler's daycare DVD and make copies for all the parents and staff. Renea had to deal with students (and parents) who failed classes and couldn't participate in the promotion ceremony or who needed to take summer classes in order to move to the next grade level. Josh had to take his finals and is still figuring out which club soccer team to join. Skyler had it real bad learning how all his new toys work and visiting mommy and daddy at work. We still haven't fully recovered from his 2nd birthday party last week - things are still everywhere. Besides his party, he went to his cousin's and his uncle's.

Mother's Day

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-15T22:32:38-07:00

We visited Renea's mom on Sunday for Mother's Day. Skyler was a little fussy and needed constant attention. I took this photo of him leaning on his mother shortly before we left.

Private First Class

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-15T22:27:41-07:00

A few days ago, Ashley told her mom that she had been promoted to Private First Class just for "doing what I'm told." She hopes to visit us in a couple of weeks.

Points and Old Ladies

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-12T16:00:01-07:00

Today, Renea and I started Weight Watcher's. I figured it would be easier if we did it together. Skyler was witness to the meeting. There were plenty of old, overweight ladies at the meeting. I was one of three males in the entire room (two being kids). I can see why people would want to attend the meetings - it was very motivational. It's been about six hours so far, but I feel good. Renea bought us chicken soft tacos at Taco Bell because she already knew the point values from her prior WW experience. Right now, she's out with Skyler buying some food from recipes printed from Dotti's Weight Loss Zone.

Little Miss Sunshine

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-06T02:21:14-07:00

Last night Renea, Skyler, and I watched Little Miss Sunshine. It was probably the best movie I've seen in years and reminded me why I love low-budget independent movies. Having spent some years in that field, I often think about those times and all the ideas and dreams I had. It's good to see great movies that aren't full of special effects and high-paid superstars.

Trivia: In one scene, the family is driving under a bunch of highway overpasses. This is at the I-17 and 101 intersection, just a few miles from us. However, they are driving east, when they should be driving west.

Career Day

Jeff Herold — 2007-05-03T22:25:06-07:00

Yesterday, my dad visited Hillcrest Middle School and presented to six classes of eighth graders about the construction industry. I decided to drop in for a few minutes during second period. It was well worth it. I think for the first time, I learned about my dad's journey after high school and his adventures in the workforce. Why didn't we have this conversation before? It doesn't matter. I am very glad he shared his story to the students and that I was one of them.

Bomb Scare

Jeff Herold — 2007-04-27T15:59:25-07:00

Today was interesting. Skyler's daycare called Renea to come pick him up because his entire building was evacuated and the rest of the high school was put on lock down for hours. Josh called Renea to come pick him up because he was bored, but the line of parents was much too long.

It ended up being a shoebox with some wires.

Storm Owie!

Jeff Herold — 2007-04-20T22:33:26-07:00

This afternoon, Renea noticed Storm was bleeding. We thought she might be in heat, but soon found out it was from her left front paw. The dewclaw was badly cut. I took her to the vet and they had to give her a sedative to fix her up. Storm is always an excited dog, so that made perfect sense! They also found out her other front paw needed fixing. A couple hundred dollars and a very pleasantly relaxed dog later, Storm came home and posed for this photo. She also turned one a couple days ago.

Home Sick

Jeff Herold — 2007-04-19T12:40:07-07:00

Skyler woke up this morning with a fever, so I stayed home with him. He's currently sleeping while I typed this. Yesterday, I visited his school and took a bunch of photos for their end-of-the-year DVD. Most of the time he followed me around, even preferring to sit down right next to me as I tried to take photos from the corner of the play yard. This is one of him watching the outside world (or the guy trimming the parking lot trees).

Biking Home

Jeff Herold — 2007-04-12T19:12:15-07:00

I've been biking home from work a few times per week and today was the most difficult, but most rewarding experience so far. It started to rain and the wind was around 30 MPH, while I cycled uphill towards the house. I was surprised it only took a little more than a half hour - it seemed twice that. I stopped a couple time under a tree to take a breather and drink water. It was tough.

Easter

Jeff Herold — 2007-04-09T21:57:39-07:00

Yesterday, Renea and I took Skyler to church in downtown Scottsdale and then we spent the rest of the afternoon at her mom's. Skyler was the only child there and got a lot of attention. He tired everyone out.

Curling Tongue

Jeff Herold — 2007-04-07T00:53:38-07:00

For some reason, I am the only person that I know that cannot curl their tongue. I took this photo of Skyler as we sat and watched mommy vacuum and mop the living room. It was tiring work.

New Router

Jeff Herold — 2007-04-07T00:51:32-07:00

I just hooked up the new Apple Airport Extreme Base Station and tested out the internet download and upload speeds. Not bad.

Reading My Blog

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-28T22:44:27-07:00

My dad told me today that my cousin, Jessie, read some of my recent blog entries about Great Grandma. That really put a smile on my face. He also told me he heard that the flowers we sent were exactly like the picture I posted and that they were placed at the grave site.

Spring Break is Over!

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-26T16:40:15-07:00

We all went back to school today. When Renea dropped Skyler off, he went right to a table to sit down with a friend. But, when she picked him up, she caught him taking a toy away from a classmate. I had some new students today and enjoyed my prep period. It's been a few months since I've had time during school hours to work on lesson plans or make copies. I am looking forward to the next couple of months. Also, I just got off the phone from ordering flowers for Great Grandma's funeral. They are supposed to look like these:

Sleep-Watching

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-23T22:40:01-07:00

I just checked on Skyler in his newly-lowered bed (from crib to daybed). He woke and sat up when I touched him, so I stayed for a minute as watched him as he fell back asleep. I am so proud of him sleeping in his "big boy bed".

Funeral

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-23T19:46:31-07:00

Great Grandma's funeral is next Wednesday in Grand Rapids, MI. I decided not to fly out there. We will be in Michigan in September, so we can make a special trip to GR to visit her grave. Mom is flying out tomorrow morning to help out for three weeks. I will send flowers next week for the ceremony.

She was very precious to me. After all, who else can say their first college roommate was their great grandma? That year was important for me. My parents and brother had just moved to Arizona and I was feeling more independent, going to a university and having the freedom to stay out late. Great Grandma was always up waiting for me when I walked in at 2AM. She would complain, but I listened to her and respected her. She taught me how to properly wash clothes. We had meals together and sometimes I would take her out. I'm very glad that I had that opportunity because I will never forget her.

Great Grandma Died Tonight

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-22T23:07:29-07:00

Skyler woke me up a few minutes ago with his crying, so I went to the computer to check email and read for a bit. My mom called and told me that Great Grandma had died. She was due to start in a residential hospice care center tomorrow. While I know I am really sad, I just don't feel it yet. I was looking at airfare earlier tonight to visit in the next few days. It would have been really hard to see her in person, but I'm glad she's in heaven now. So, I guess I am sad and happy at the same time. The rain outside, steadily coming down, is very fitting.

My Grandma Barb and Great Grandma Dorothy sit for a photo with Skyler and I. All smiles.

IKEA Shopping

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-22T18:25:17-07:00

Yesterday, we went to IKEA to buy Skyler a table and chairs set for eating, drawing, playing, etc. Of course we ended up with a little more than we had in mind. He likes to sit at his new table and doesn't mind that we gave his highchair away today. Well, he cried when he saw me put it in our friend's trunk, but I think he's over it now.

Time With Grandma

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-19T14:34:53-07:00

Yesterday, we got to see Grandma Barb some more. I took some photos and will put those up this week. She leaves tomorrow morning. I was thinking about flying to Michigan to spend some time with her and Great Grandma. Maybe next month.

Workin'

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-17T13:54:36-07:00

I took a break from working on Skyler's much-anticipated and long-overdue DVD year-in-review to replace the batteries in a couple of his toys. However, we found out we were out of AA batteries!

Spring Break!

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-17T08:38:06-07:00

We are on a much-needed break. Last weekend Grandma Barb from Michigan arrived. We had her and my parents over last weekend. She's been on mini-vacations with my parents. Today, they hope to see Skyler at his swim lesson, however, he's been home sick for a couple days. Tomorrow, we will spend some time at my parents' house with her.

Ashley Came and Went

Jeff Herold — 2007-03-06T16:24:02-07:00

She left yesterday for combat training in North Carolina. We had a little party for her Saturday afternoon with friends and relatives. Skyler didn't cry this time because she left after he went to school. He got a really good report from his teachers yesterday and they were very impressed with his puzzle skills and talking. Photos from Ashley's boot camp ceremonies are now up.

Safe and Sound...Asleep

Jeff Herold — 2007-02-24T18:16:23-07:00

Ashley arrived in town before Renea did, but went straight to a late dinner with her friends. She slept on the couch and shared it with a visitor early this morning while Renea went back to the airport to deal her her missing luggage. More photos will be posted soon.

Almost Time

Jeff Herold — 2007-02-23T21:13:27-07:00

I am taking Skyler to pick up his mom in a couple minutes. It's been a learning experience without her. We read books to go to sleep and listened to music to take a nap. Yesterday and today I had to pick him up early due to "being sick", so we got to spend some extra time together. My parents helped out this afternoon by driving straight to our house from Casa Grande (where they were when I called them). Skyler has been through a lot of changes this week, but he also has shown me that sometimes I need to stop and appreciate things more often. I feel confident in saying that I am a good daddy.

Off to the Airport

Jeff Herold — 2007-02-20T20:55:22-07:00

I am about to take Renea to the airport. Earlier tonight Skyler and Josh helped us tear up the remainder of the family room carpet. The tile order will arrive tomorrow afternoon.

I Can Do It

Jeff Herold — 2007-02-19T22:19:48-07:00

Tomorrow night, I drop Renea off at the airport so she can attend Ashley's graduation from boot camp. So, for the next few days, I will have to take care of Skyler by myself. Rest assured, Skyler will be taking care of me as well.

We Went to Church

Jeff Herold — 2007-02-11T22:18:57-07:00

It's been a while since Renea and I took Skyler to church. We went this morning and it was a great experience. One of my students wrote my name (Mr. Herold) on a name tag sticker and gave it to me to wear. Skyler enjoyed dancing, singing, and clapping until it was time for the sermon. So, Renea took him out to the lobby.

I really was glad that we went and the sermon was very memorable. The guest speaker talked about the upcoming historical movie, Amazing Grace, and how it's main character, William Wilberforce, helped bring about the abolition of slavery in England. The one thing that I felt was most important for me was the idea of persistence. Wilberforce spent 17 years trying to get Parliament to pass the law to abolish slavery. Persistence pays off.

Back to School

Jeff Herold — 2007-02-10T22:18:12-07:00

I think I finally found the master's program that I want to pursue. Renea also thinks it would be good for me. It's called "Graphic Information Technology" and has an option to take everything online! I will be applying for it in the next few weeks and could start as early as this summer. Check it out.

Need a Ticket to Phoenix?

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-31T22:17:52-07:00

Rant: We got a letter today from Ashley, claiming her drill sergeant forced her to purchase a ticket back to Phoenix, even though she informed him she already had one. Renea bought her a non-refundable ticket weeks ago. I just made a quick call to a local recruiter who told me that this story is unheard of - so, obviously, I am not very happy. Hopefully, this will get resolved, not only because of the hundreds of dollars lost, but for Ashley's sake.

She wanted to fly back home with her loved ones.

Soakin' in the Sun

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-29T22:16:54-07:00

100th Post! I snapped these three consecutive photos yesterday afternoon. It seemed EVERYONE needed to spend some time just being un-busy. Notice how Gambit is sound asleep, while Storm is bugged by my photography. Today, a friend from work came over for lunch with her husband and daughter. Then, my aunt and uncle from Colorado, my parents, my grandma, and brother had dinner and good company. We created a new game called "Google Me".

Dracula Would Be Proud

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-26T22:16:31-07:00

When we picked Skyler up from school yesterday, his teachers reported that he bit another student and was put in time out. We were very concerned and talked to him about biting people. Today, he tried to bite his mom and was scolded. Hopefully, he will understand that biting is wrong. Sometimes when I am playing with him, I pretend to "nibble" on his hands or toes. Maybe I should stop.

Flower for Mommy

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-24T22:16:13-07:00

As soon as we got home, Skyler and I jogged down to the park and ran around, chasing each other, exploring the desert, and picking a yellow flower for Mommy.

Backyard Fun

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-23T21:56:05-07:00

After school, we played for a bit outside. Skyler had fun running after the dogs and watching Daddy pick up the dog poop! It's getting a little warmer. It's crazy that this past weekend nearby towns had snow falling for hours! I could see some on the mountain views in our backyard. I also updated the photo section with new albums for 2007.

Rainbow Connection

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-20T21:56:05-07:00

Yesterday, as the sun was setting, a massive rainbow tore through the clouds and appeared perfectly. Eventually, a second one was seen on top. This was, by far, the most beautiful rainbow I have ever seen - and I got to share it with someone special. It was awesome. Skyler and I watched it for a long time. He learned how to say "naymo".

Swimming Class

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-13T21:56:05-07:00

Today I took Skyler to his first high level swimming class since he started over a year ago. He picked up a swimming ring I dropped to the floor. The water is over four feet deep and he dove down (with my help) and retrieved it. He loves jumping into the water and seems to have a lot of confidence.

Wacky Webcams

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-07T21:56:04-07:00

Yesterday we went to the park by Grandma's and had lots of fun. Today, Skyler and I messed around with a webcam. I have been working all weekend on setting up webcams to monitor the two dogs. Soon, it will be available online, along with a couple of outdoor CCD cameras for the front and back of the house. Big Brother is very pleased.

Tired Babies!

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-05T21:56:04-07:00

Gambit Arrives!

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-01T21:56:04-07:00

We picked up Gambit at the airport this afternoon. There were a couple minor problems getting her because of a delayed flight, but we took her home and had her play with Skyler for a few minutes before introducing her to Storm. It will be interesting to see how a baby boy, a baby girl dog, and a young adult boy dog get along!

Happy New Year!

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-01T21:56:03-07:00

Renea and I took Skyler up to Jenny and Mark's cabin for the day and had relaxing time. Skyler didn't want to go sledding, but it was fun to witness his crying turn to laughter after the quick trip down the small hill.

Weight Goal

Jeff Herold — 2007-01-01T21:56:03-07:00

As of an hour ago, I have decided to seriously cut back on my weight. After looking online at various "ideal weight" charts, I have concluded that I need to lose about 40 pounds to be at the "high average" for my height. Woah!

Christmas

Jeff Herold — 2006-12-26T21:52:43-07:00

Christmas Eve, we went to my parent's church and then to Margo's for our annual Mexican Dinner. We took a group photo of everyone, holding up letters that read "Ashley! USMC". I was feeling tired and sick pretty much the whole day and I'm still recovering.

Dadda, Momma, Josha, Ashie, Puppa, Up, Baba...

Jeff Herold — 2006-12-01T21:43:19-07:00

I took the day off to take Skyler to a speech evaluation. He hardly said anything (of course!), but from the information I gave the therapist, she said he seems to be developing within the normal range. He is doing fine and we are not concerned, so the pediatrician shouldn't be either.

Building the Tool Set

Jeff Herold — 2006-12-31T21:43:19-07:00

Yesterday, my parents came over for lunch. Dad and I tried to put together the last of Skyler's Christmas presents while he took a nap, but he decided to wake up towards the end so he could help us.

Pet Store Trip

Jeff Herold — 2006-12-30T21:43:18-07:00

Last night, we took Skyler and Storm to PetCo to purchase some supplies for Skyler and Storm's new baby brother...Gambit. He arrives at the airport on Tuesday afternoon. Pictures coming soon!

No More Bottles!

Jeff Herold — 2006-12-26T21:43:18-07:00

Renea informed me earlier today that she tossed out all of Skyler's baby bottles. He has been requesting "juice" and "milk" by saying the word while pointing towards the fridge and cupboard! Skyler has been really fussy lately, but that's probably because he's getting over being sick from last week. Tonight, I taught him to say "moon" as we grilled burgers outside after dark. He liked being in my arms as we pointed to the flames and whispered "hot" to each other.

First Letter Home

Jeff Herold — 2006-12-21T21:43:18-07:00

"The DIs seem like they are about to go to combat immediately."

We received a letter from Ashley today. Even though the letter was short, it seems like she is hangin' tough. She misses us, fast food, and is happy to hear that Skyler can pronounce her name. I'm glad she misses us.

The (Training) Matrix

Jeff Herold — 2006-12-12T21:43:17-07:00

Ashley is in her third week of USMC training. Here is a link to her training matrix. Letters and postcards may be sent to:

Recruit Kuncis AE
PLT 4004 P Co. 4th BN
PO Box 14004
Parris Island, SC 29905

Soccer Consolation

Jeff Herold — 2006-12-09T21:43:17-07:00

Josh's school team played this afternoon for 3rd place, but lost and placed 4th. He played really well and his mom and little brother enjoyed watching his team (as well as I). I bought a new camera (Canon S3) last night and had the perfect opportunity to use it!

Ashley Left This Morning

Jeff Herold — 2006-11-27T21:33:32-07:00

Around 4 AM this morning, Ashley left for boot camp. The Marines will be her new home for a while, but her family will still be the same. I took this photo last night as she left our house.

Thanksgiving in Durango

Jeff Herold — 2006-11-25T21:33:32-07:00

We had a great time and had the best Thanksgiving food! The main item was a turducken, which grabbed the curiosity of everyone. Skyler experienced snow for the first time and seemed to enjoy holding it.

Skyler Sick Again

Jeff Herold — 2006-11-18T21:33:31-07:00

He has a runny nose and is keeping Renea up all night. Apparently, I sleep so soundly that I am not awakened. I promised to stay up with him tonight, if needed. I hope he's all better for our big trip to Colorado next weekend!

The Polar Express

Jeff Herold — 2006-11-14T21:33:31-07:00

Last weekend, a bunch of people from Renea's side of the family went up to Williams, AZ to ride The Polar Express. I know at least two people in this photo are going to force me to remove it, so you better download it it quickly!

Early Thanksgiving

Jeff Herold — 2006-11-05T21:33:31-07:00

We had an early Thanksgiving as a "Going to Bootcamp" family get-together for Ashley. She's leaving in a few days, but not before traveling with us to Durango to have another Thanksgiving.

Morning at Mickey D's

Jeff Herold — 2006-11-05T21:33:30-07:00

Skyler begged his mom and I to take him to McDonald's to eat breakfast and play in the play area. He couldn't play because it was closed, but we managed to let him walk up the steps and go down the slide a few times.

Stress!

Jeff Herold — 2006-11-01T21:33:30-07:00

I have been REALLY stressed lately with everything I am involved with and actually laughed to myself this afternoon when I thought about all the things that I have been doing and what else needs to be done. Everything will return to normal soon.

New Bike

Jeff Herold — 2006-11-29T21:33:29-07:00

I thought about Josh needing the Mustang more and more and the option of us buying a new car for me next summer...and I came to the conclusion that it would be beneficial for me to buy a bike (after 12 years of not owning one). It will save us money. It will force me to exercise more often. It will be fun! So, I went out and bought a bike last night and rode it to work and back home today. It's about 10 miles roundtrip. My bottom is no longer sore. Here is the bike I bought:

New Photo Album Style

Jeff Herold — 2006-10-01T21:31:21-07:00

A couple weeks ago my grandpa and grandma from Florida came to Arizona and we got to spend a couple days with them. Skyler met his other great-grandparents and everyone enjoyed spending time together. I just got around to publishing photos from their visit and thought I'd try a new style for the photo albums. Hopefully it works.

Cousins Play

Jeff Herold — 2006-10-14T21:31:21-07:00

Skyler and Lukas had a chance to hang out and play, while the rest of us watched and talked. Eventually, we joined in the playing.

Wahhhhhhh!!!

Jeff Herold — 2006-10-10T21:31:20-07:00

Both Skyler and his Daddy haven't been feeling well. Skyler was diagnosed with Roseola and I kind of feel like I am coming down with similar symptoms (although it is very rare in adults). I will be posting new photos very soon, but they probably won't include any with tiny red dots on anyone's face.

Josh Turns 16

Jeff Herold — 2006-09-25T21:27:00-07:00

Tomorrow morning, on his birthday, he is getting his license with his mom. He is a very mature driver and I have no problem with him taking my Mustang out all by himself. Josh has proven to be a very responsible young man. This is one of the oldest photos I found on my computer of him. He's a lot taller now.

Midnight Shower

Jeff Herold — 2006-09-12T21:27:00-07:00

Skyler and I were both not feeling too well and we decided to take a nice warm shower to clear our heads and nostrils. It made us both feel a little better and allowed us to get some sleep.

75 Years

Jeff Herold — 2006-09-09T21:26:59-07:00

Tonight was Grandma Dixie's 75th birthday celebration. She looked great and had a good time. Skyler had fun playing with his cousin and another youngster.

Visiting the Park

Jeff Herold — 2006-09-04T21:26:59-07:00

Renea and I took Skyler and Storm to one of the little parks by our house. It was good exercise and the weather was nice. Skyler had fun being introduced to the various textures under his feet and Storm did pretty well for her first time with a collar and leash.

Daddy's Rocking Chair

Jeff Herold — 2006-09-02T21:26:58-07:00

Today we visited my parents at their house. Skyler and I went to swimming lessons after a two week hiatus and picked up Renea, who, along with me, thought my parents were visiting us! Everything worked out and we had an enjoyable time. Grandma Wolf was there, too. I took this photo of Skyler in the rocking chair I remember using when I was a child (he also used one of my forks for lunch). Later, my dad and I picked up a DVD/VCR combo and spent a while trying to connect it.

It's been a while, but...

Jeff Herold — 2006-07-31T21:23:17-07:00

I haven't updated the blog in a few weeks, but it's been crazy! Here's a list of some of the highlights:

We moved during the hottest day of the year.
Ashley signed up and completed her admission to the Marines.
Renea painted 90% of the house already.
One of our air conditioners leaked and had to be serviced.
I hit the curb with the minivan and had to get a new wheel and four new tires.
Skyler stopped drinking baby formula and learned how to use a remote for the fan and lights.
Renea lost her very important work key - it reappeared a few days later.

Some photos will be coming soon.

Storm Gets Attention

Jeff Herold — 2006-08-30T21:23:17-07:00

This afternoon, I took her in to get her first Petsmart groom. There were about half a dozen employees, plus some customers, who were all giddy over her. She received a ton of affection. For the most part, she is a very well-behaved and fun puppy.

Sleeping On His Own

Jeff Herold — 2006-08-20T21:23:17-07:00

Skyler's been sleeping in his crib for the past few days - only waking up early in the morning and realizing he wants to be with mom and dad. He's doing so good at school now and received his first positive report last Friday. Renea and I were so happy . . . I am still smiling.

We Survived!

Jeff Herold — 2006-08-15T21:23:16-07:00

Yesterday was the first day back for the new school year. Attendance issues on our new system were the only major problem. Today, though, I had to leave early and take care of Skyler because his daycare program said he was sick. After his long nap, we played wth the puppy. Later on, Renea and I joined Skyler for some fun.

School Starts Monday

Jeff Herold — 2006-08-12T21:23:16-07:00

We start back on Monday. I have been working all last week and this weekend to get prepared. My classes should be fun this year...all six of them (Math, Reading, Drama, Public Speaking, Music, and Computers)! I took this photo just this afternoon with Renea. Both of our babies, sleeping peacefully.

Skyler's First Day of School

Jeff Herold — 2006-08-09T21:22:45-07:00

Skyler started his daycare program this morning and survived! This photo was taken right before we went inside. Renea and I officially began today, too, but students don't arrive until next Monday. I have a lot of work to do!

A Storm Came In

Jeff Herold — 2006-08-03T21:22:44-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, our long-awaited French Bulldog, Storm, arrived from Missouri. She took to us right away and is very fun. Her given name was Sunshine, but Renea wanted to change it to an X-Men character's name. Hmmm...from Sunshine to Storm...

Tomorrow We Pack It In!

Jeff Herold — 2006-07-07T21:21:40-07:00

We started with a few things today after the "pods" were delivered. Hopefully we can fit everything we need. Phones calls to friends with trucks/trailers might have to be made.

My First Wedding

Jeff Herold — 2006-07-01T21:21:40-07:00

Well, not really. My brother and I videotaped a wedding ceremony and reception today - our first professional gig. We both had a blast and are already planning on doing more in the future. Kristin and Brett were very thankful for everything.

Last Day of Summer School

Jeff Herold — 2006-06-29T21:15:59-07:00

Today was the last day of summer school. The first graders were awesome and so much fun! Most of them improved their reading scores and all of them had a great time. The other teachers I worked closely with were very helpful and friendly. And, to top it off, we got paid today!

Swimming Fun

Jeff Herold — 2006-06-25T21:15:59-07:00

We had fun swimming this weekend, but Renea had to basically challlenge Josh to a water fight to get him to come in. Skyler is getting over an ear infection, so he wasn't allowed to go under water and had to take it easy at swim lessons.

Four More Years!

Jeff Herold — 2006-06-22T21:15:58-07:00

Renea and I were married four years ago yesterday. We took it easy and went up to the new house. Skyler enjoyed exploring. These past four years (and the ten total that we've known one another) are full of excitement and new experiences. The next four years will be even better.

Fathers' Day

Jeff Herold — 2006-06-18T21:15:58-07:00

Well, we were looking forward to wearing our matching Hawaiin outfits today, but Renea and I ended up taking Skyler to NextCare because she suspected he had an ear infection - she was right! After a couple hours, we got home and I also started not feeling well...and then Renea, too. So, the three of us just sat around, played, and watched a movie. We did get to take some funny photos of Skyler making funny faces. Check out the 2006 Photos for the album.

Despite all the sickness, we managed to have a good day and I received the best Fathers' Day gift from Renea and Skyler. They made me a special "Daddy and Skyler" photo frame at As You Wish, a pottery-making craft store by the movie theatre. We picked it up last night and I was very surprised. We'll take the Hawaiin outfit photos soon and put the best one in the frame.

Carseat Switcheroo

Jeff Herold — 2006-06-15T21:15:58-07:00

Skyler and I just got back from getting his carseat reversed (forward facing), because he keeps on growing. I took this photo at the Mayo Hospital, where we got it adjusted. When we returned, Renea and Josh claimed they heard him say "yeah" when Josh asked "Skyler, do you like your carseat?". Also, we are expecting our first offer on the house, so we are anxiously awaiting a phone call. Renea has accounted for all phones in the house (after confiscating the one Ashley was talking on).

Postcard to the Grannies and a Soccer Game

Jeff Herold — 2006-06-13T21:15:58-07:00

I just sent a photo postcard to the grannies in Michigan and used this photo of Skyler and I. Renea took it a few minutes ago and I thought I would send it on his behalf to thank them for the birthday gift. Josh had another soccer game two nights ago and won. They played outside on a new "indoor, but outdoor" field. He has been watching most of the World Cup with his friends latley - even getting up at six in the morning to see games.

We're Still Here

Jeff Herold — 2006-06-07T21:15:57-07:00

Yesterday came and went. There were lots of weird news stories related to the special day, but nothing too exciting. Right now Phoenix is going through a thunderstorm - way more exciting!

Is tomorrow the start of Armageddon?

Jeff Herold — 2006-06-05T21:15:57-07:00

There's been a lot of hype lately about tomorrow being 6-6-06 and the possibility of the antichrist being born. Whatever! I'm just confident that God has plans and I feel extremely secure on this Earth, knowing He is in charge. Hopefully, everyone around me feels the same.

First Graders!

Jeff Herold — 2006-06-01T21:15:57-07:00

Today was my first day teaching summer school to first graders. I have two great teachers that are sharing their students, so the students get more opportunities to become better readers. The kids are awesome and seemed to enjoy their first day, too.

Headin' to The Guy Store

Jeff Herold — 2006-05-28T21:10:42-07:00

I am about to leave to Home Depot to find some sandbags or some other way to secure our Open House signs. Yesterday was find until the early afternoon when the wind picked up and decided to blow all of our signs down. Now that we are finished with working full time for a while, we can spend more time with open houses. Maracay agreed to postpone our move-in date by a month, so that is a total blessing!

Relaxing in the Spa

Jeff Herold — 2006-05-26T21:10:42-07:00

Renea, Skyler, and I enjoyed the late afternoon in the pool. Skyler eventually fell asleep and created a perfect photo opportunity. I love him so much and am happy every day I wake up and realize "I am a daddy!".

Daddy and Son Work!

Jeff Herold — 2006-05-26T21:10:41-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, Skyler and I put together a birthday gift. It took about an hour and required my brain to go into melting status. He liked the wheel parts the best.

Another School Year Almost Through

Jeff Herold — 2006-05-23T21:10:41-07:00

Tomorrow is the last full day of school. Next week I start teaching reading to first graders in summer school. This year has been a tremendous learning experience for me. Overall, I have really enjoyed my classes and I know the students feel the same way. Next year will be even better!

The Cousins Celebrate

Jeff Herold — 2006-05-20T21:10:40-07:00

We had a family birthday party for Skyler and Lukas at Grandma Elsie's house. Everyone had a blast and the only difficulty was rescuing a balloon from the fan. Lukas enjoyed his carrot cake more than Skyler did. In the pool, Lukas learned a couple tricks from his cousin.

Skyler Turns One!

Jeff Herold — 2006-05-18T21:10:39-07:00

We started celebrating around four this morning, singing happy birthday to him in our bed. After work, we tried to get him to walk so I could videotape him, but he was really cranky. So, Renea and I took him swimming and that made him really happy. Then we had him walk and he showed us how he can open a door with the knob! We both gasped! next it was off to Babies R Us to get some pajamas and toys, but one of them didn't work, so I have to return/exchange it. Finally, I got online to post this special first birthday report (he will have more in the next couple weeks). Ok, I am going to go give him some snuggly hugs before he falls asleep...

Next Month?

Jeff Herold — 2006-05-17T21:10:28-07:00

We lowered the price on our house another 20K and visited it today. It is almost finished! We got inside and walked around - it is looking good! God-willing, we will be busy moving in this summer.

Mother's Day

Jeff Herold — 2006-05-17T21:10:28-07:00

I haven't updated this in a while because of some personal issues, but I am happy to say things have recently gotten much better! This past weekend, we visited both sides of our family and enjoyed everyone's company. I thought this photo of my mom and my son sums up the day.

Show and Tell

Jeff Herold — 2006-05-02T21:10:28-07:00

We have had a handful of showings through realtors today and yesterday. Another realtor is bringing people over in a few minutes. Things are looking better! Praise the Lord!

Stress

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-28T21:03:23-07:00

We just met with our financial advisor for the house loans. I am very frustrated that we can't sell our house (we just lowered it another 11K). I know God will work out what's best for us, but it's hard not knowing what to do and having few options.

Hangin' Out

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-27T21:03:23-07:00

My brother and I walked up with Skyler to the new house and returned without him! Renea found us and took Skyler away. We came back and worked on the computer and watched some tv.

Another Driver!

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-26T21:03:23-07:00

Josh just left with his mom to get a permit. He turns 16 in 6 months and needs to have the permit for that long before getting a regular license. This past weekend he took a driving course.

Sold?

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-23T21:03:22-07:00

Earlier, I called home and Renea said a lady came to our Open House shortly after I had removed the signs. I guess she fell in love with the house and wanted to bring her husband tomorrow afternoon. It would be awesome to finally sell - so much stress would be removed. God-willing, we will sell it. I hope we don't have to be in a transitional place...or at least, not for long.

Happy Easter

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-17T21:03:22-07:00

Yesterday we went to John and Margo's house for Easter and had a pleasant afternoon. We all felt sleepy (some more than others).

Skyler Meets Eliana

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-16T21:03:22-07:00

Yesterday, Skyler got to meet Eliana for the first time.

Birthday Pics!

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-14T21:03:21-07:00

Skyler, Lukas, and their mommies went to the mall to get photos taken. I just received an email with the proofs and they haven't even arrived back yet. I have been waiting for people to come by for the open house (no one has come).

Laura Ingraham Event

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-12T21:03:21-07:00

Renea and I attended an outdoor radio event, featuring Laura Ingraham and Senator John Kyle. The food was great, the atmosphere was pleasant, the speeches were intelligent and fun...but the air was chilly - especially after the sun set.

Grandma Time

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-09T21:03:21-07:00

We spent the afternoon at my Grandma's with my parents, Patrick, and Evelina. Earlier in the day, Renea and I dropped Skyler off at thhe nursery while we attended the church service. He was crying when we left him and crying when we arrived. He needs to get used to being with other people.

Eliana Karina Hinrichs

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-07T21:03:20-07:00

Renea and I visited Arrowhead Hospital last night and met our friends' daughter, Eliana. She was born earlier that day, weighing 8 lbs., 13 oz. and measuring 22 1/2 in. long.

One Giant Leap for Mankind

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-06T21:03:20-07:00

Ok, I just witnessed Skyler take a step from the couch to the coffee table and then from the coffee table to the couch. Prior to that he stood straight up for about seven seconds.

First Step?

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-05T21:03:20-07:00

Renea just called me in to the family room and claimed that Skyler took one step all by himself. Of course he wouldn't repeat this endevour (especially when I brought my camera in). Today I left work early to spend some time with Skyler. He was tired towards the end of our run.

Amazing Jakes!

Jeff Herold — 2006-04-04T21:03:02-07:00

The other day we went to Amazing Jakes for my nephew, Nathan's, 8th birthday. Everyone had a great time. We ate and ate and ate...and then ate. Check out the photos.

Sellin' on eBay

Jeff Herold — 2006-03-30T19:57:29-07:00

Yesterday I visited my grandma to talk about some things she was interested in having me sell for her on eBay. I took some photos and picked up grandpa's VideoEye that recently sold. It was nice to spend some time alone with grandma and I'm sure she was happy I stopped by.

Skyler's First Zoo Trip!

Jeff Herold — 2006-03-24T19:56:47-07:00

Skyler loved going to see all the "manmimals" and riding the merry-go-round.
The weather was nice and the shade was nicer.

See all the photos.

Finished

Jeff Herold — 2006-03-22T19:56:11-07:00

I finished the final version of Grandpa's memorial DVD and I am proud of the work I have put in this past week. DVDs are being mailed out today. Skyler and Renea have runny noses, so I hope I don't get sick. We were going to go to the World Wildlife Zoo today, but we will have to wait until tomorrow.

First Time at Sunday School

Jeff Herold — 2006-03-19T19:55:46-07:00

We just got back from church and Skyler was a very good boy for his teachers, so we celebrated with a breakfast burrito.

Finishing Up Stanley's DVD

Jeff Herold — 2006-03-16T19:55:07-07:00

I was about to start finishing up the dvd and checked my email. My mom and grandma apparently checked out some photos from the website and decided to send us an email. Notice the name of the sender (in green).

Emotions Keepin' Me Awake

Jeff Herold — 2006-03-11T23:59:17-07:00

I have been working on grandpa's DVD/slideshow for the past 6 or 7 hours and I am just about finished. The funeral is in 7 and a half hours, so I will probably be high on caffeine all day. I have seen the photos and spent hours in tears with smiles over this project, so I might step into another room when everyone watches it for the first time.

Skyler Has Connections

Jeff Herold — 2006-03-09T19:52:14-07:00

A Letter and a Cousin

Jeff Herold — 2006-03-09T19:51:20-07:00

Last night, Josh had his school soccer banquet. It was catered by Pick Up Stix and I enjoyed using chopsticks (with the "cheat holder" of course). He received his first Varsity Letter and is interested in getting a jacket to put it on. He thinks mine is cool. Today, my second cousin, Kristi, came over with my mom and met Skyler. I hope she can visit again soon.

Viva Las Vegas

Jeff Herold — 2006-03-07T19:50:26-07:00

This past weekend we went to Las Vegas for Josh's soccer tournament again. His team progressively played better each game. We hung out with the Lalli's a lot and had a great weekend. I did all of the driving and most of the complaining.

See all the photos (choose the album).

Huzzah!

Jeff Herold — 2006-02-28T19:49:14-07:00

Over 400 students on busses and thousands more at this year's Renassaince Festival. It was very hot and dusty. The clouds teased us all morning.

Laughter

Jeff Herold — 2006-02-26T19:48:43-07:00

Skyler's grandparents and one of his great-grandmas came over for a Sunday afternoon visit. He entertained us all with a game of peek-a-boo with GG. It was a wonderful day.

Morning Routine

Jeff Herold — 2006-02-24T19:48:19-07:00

Skyler is very active and curious in the mornings as we get ready for work. He is usually the first to wake up and always has a smile when he see us. This morning, he was in charge of laundry security.

Waiting All Weekend

Jeff Herold — 2006-02-21T19:47:51-07:00

We had a few people come through the house and had plenty to do to kill time.
Skyler has taken a liking to sugar-free popsicles.

Music and eBay

Jeff Herold — 2006-02-16T19:47:25-07:00

Those are the two most popular topics my grandfather and I would discuss all the time. He died a little after four this afternoon. I regret not visiting him in the past few weeks. We just got back from their house. The tv was on the "easy listening" channel and the last two songs playing while he was being taken away were "Don't Let me Be Lonely Tonight" by Percy Faith and "Wonderful, Wonderful" by Lawrence Welk. This is my favorite photograph of him.

Confusion

Jeff Herold — 2006-02-14T19:46:53-07:00

I just started going through some difficulty at work and I pray that it ends soon. Lying and blaming others never turns out right. Hopefully, others will realize their wrongdoings and change for the better. Confusion is what I am feeling. For others, it must be guilt.

...there's just one catch.

Jeff Herold — 2006-02-07T19:46:23-07:00

Only a few days left until I reach thirty. There's a lot to be thankful for...and a lot to be proud of. The pleasure totally outweighs the pain. I just hope the Sandmen don't find me.

Ashley's 18

Jeff Herold — 2006-02-05T19:45:39-07:00

Last night we had Margo and Jon over, along with some of Ashley's friends to celebrate a few days late. Later, Skyler gave us all a hat fashion show. Mushroom chicken and rice, with cheesecakes for dessert were on the menu. I waited until this morning to eat some cheesecake. Today is Super Bowl Sunday, but I'm not even certain who is playing, since the Broncos lost their chance a couple weeks ago.

Ditching School

Jeff Herold — 2006-02-01T19:43:53-07:00

Today, I ditched school to spend the day with Skyler. It was a staff development day (no students), so no big deal. We were both lazy and spent time taking naps, playing with toys, and reading books together. I found out Skyler is getting a little too tall for his crib, so we had to adjust it. He is also getting another tooth - this time on the top.

Close Game and a 3rd Tooth

Jeff Herold — 2006-01-25T19:29:51-07:00

Last night, Josh's varsity soccer team lost their chance to go on to the state finals. It was too windy for Skyler, so Renea left us at home to play. Tonight, we can see his third tooth popping up next to his other two.

2nd Place and Back to Church

Jeff Herold — 2006-01-23T19:29:46-07:00

Saturday, the wrestlers placed second in conference this past weekend. Only one ambulance emergency (not one of ours) the entire day (sarcasm?). We finally went back to church after a short hiatus (not intentional). Skyler was a very good boy. Later, he showed off his quick standing up routine with the couch.

Back to Work

Jeff Herold — 2006-01-16T19:29:19-07:00

We go back to work tomorrow, but this week is easy. Today was MLK day and Thursday and Friday we have half-days, due to parent-teacher conferences. We had one family and another come by to see the house today. I am about to go out for another walk/jog.

Swimming, Kissing, and Cake

Jeff Herold — 2006-01-07T19:28:05-07:00

Skyler had his first swim lesson today and he did great until I let some water get into his mouth. He even went underwater a few times and his teacher said he was awesome. Later this afternoon, Skyler crawled across his bedroom floor and planted a couple kisses on my face. Gotta love the slobber! Ashley's fiance, Ryan, had a birthday party and we just got back. He turned 19 and is about to start working for APS.

I Am Crazy

Jeff Herold — 2006-01-06T19:27:14-07:00

Last night I handed my car key to Ashley and she drove Ryan around. She came back an hour later and the only thing I noticed was the gas level was lower. We also visited Grandma's house and Skyler got to hang out with his cousin again.

No More Brace-Face

Jeff Herold — 2006-01-06T19:25:53-07:00

Josh got his braces off yesterday, but I haven't seen him yet. I had an exhausting day and I got beat up in wrestling practice, so I fell asleep with Skyler before Renea got home from picking Josh up from his friend's house.

She's Licensed to Drive

Jeff Herold — 2006-01-03T19:20:26-07:00

Ashley went with her mom to get her driver's license this morning. She wanted to borrow my Mustang tonight, but I think some night driving practice would be good.

I spent a lot of quality time with Skyler, while others were waiting at the MVD. He and I had fun playing under the blanket and enjoying the weather outside. I am constantly being impressed by his abilities and how fast he is learning. Tomorrow, I think I'll take him to the MVD.