Better Late Than Never

The start of another week. This one begins with the continuation of highs and lows. I suppose that is just life. It's just that the highs and lows seem to be on opposite ends of the spectrum. First Jensen was diagnosed with cancer, then we received word that the lab made a mistake. And we celebrated!

Then I was in communication with my brother and found out he had been in communication with our dad. A very nice high and how do you do! But then he let me know the details, as best as he knew them, about my stepfathers health and prognosis. He also let me know our mother's worst fears have come to pass. It seems as if some test results are indicating Alzheimer's. She never wanted to find herself in the same position as her mother. So, next weekend I'm heading to Colorado. Both with joy and a heavy heart.

And as I return home from work, another twist. Ken is not as bad as my brother anticipated. So the long and short of it is I am staying home this weekend. Another bittersweet turn of events. I am very grateful Ken prognosis is better than my brother anticipated. But I must admit I was looking forward to seeing my mom and making the drive with Noah. I'll take the good with thanksgiving and delve into the disappointment with the wonder if it is time to make that drive, and make it with my son.

On a lighter note I did begin my second week of Couch to 5K. Whoever said it gets easier, I don't believe them yet.

Well, we signed up for the Des Moines IA Color Run. Unless I find I cannot wait that long, October 6, 2012 will be my first 5K. The team has grown from me, Mike, Noah, Lucas, and Jordan to include Angie, Katie, Maddie, and Katie's sister-in-law. If you know any of us, with maybe the exception of Mike, the previous list of people running a 5K is the equivalent of snow in July in Iowa or maybe me putting on a bathing suit.

Another first, I completed my first couch to 5K workout. I now have a blister on my second toe and the confirmed knowledge of how out of shape I really am.

Chris and Mary-Lou Martens
June 30, 2012

Mike and I were in Mobile Alabama this past weekend for my youngest brothers wedding. The wedding was as weddings should be; beautiful and emotional.

Alabama was hot. But more about that later!

 

Carnival Museum

The Carnival Museum in Mobile Alabama; Home of Mardi Gras!

Each of the Kings and Queens from each of the secret society's designed their own robes. They were unique, creative, and beautiful. One had so much embellishment it had casters sewn into the hem to make it possible for the queen who wore it to walk.

The mantels the Queens' dresses were amazing. This was one of my favorites but there were many, each one as unique as the robes were. These were also designed by the women who wore them. The Mardi Gras society balls much be a feast for the eyes. Maybe I need to add that to my bucket list; an invitation to a Mardi Gras ball.

Make believe at it finest. These people down south know how to throw a party. Another bucket list item; go to Mardi Gras in either New Orleans or Mobile. Maybe I'll have to do both. Mobile first since that's where Mardi Gras began. And New Orleans next since I'm guessing that's where it has been perfected.. Or I suppose it is possible that New Orleans is just overcrowded and over-hyped.

I am convinced they never grow up. I wish I had a yard as green and large as a soccer field. Then there would never be a reason to do THIS in my house. I know I have cracks in the ceiling from a massive build-up of testosterone.

Please son, tell me that's not your brothers car.

I really didn't need a new project. But trying to do this does heighten my appreciation for a well put together blog. Mine couldn't get any more boring. Unfortunately I will barely have time to post so making my blog interesting will have to wait a day or two (months).

As normal there is more than one activity going on regarding the boys.

Brennan is in Europe and it has been rough riding since arriving in Chicago. Understand that for world travelers there have only been minor bumps in the road. For my son, these have been major potholes that have caused very disappointing modifications to the itinerary. Thankfully, I can say that at this moment all seems to be peaceful on the European home-front which wasn't the case a mere 48 hours ago:

Brennan from somewhere in London: DEACTIVATE MY CARD!!! Also, call Camas's dad and wire him money for me. I lost my card in the airport yesterday after we got off the plane and the office doesn't open until after we leave for Paris.

OMG, how am I going to fix this one? With a clear mind and several phone calls. And in the day of incredible technology - problem solved! $600 has been deposited into a friends account.

Jordan spent the week playing in a 3 on 3 soccer tournament. It is a very different soccer game than what he is used to but he seems to have enjoyed it. He also has practice all week to prepare for not one, not two, but three different soccer tournament taking place over the next several weeks. Besides soccer he will be sporting a shiny smile by this afternoon.

Noah and Michael seem to have had the quietest weekend, both of them worked.

And to round out the last two days, we have been communicating with the newest addition to the Kaldenberg household, Lucas. We still don't have a firm arrival date but we know it will be sometime in August. First stop after arrival will likely be the Iowa State Fair.

Today's new experience is starting a blog. Whether I look back over the last several months or I look ahead as far out as I dare, it is a roller coaster ride. At times more fun than I can articulate and at times scarier than any horror movie I've dared watch. And I don't want to miss any of the precious moments so I've decided to write them down. My hope is that all my boys - Mike, Michael, Brennan, Noah, Lucas, and Jordan, will look back on the years past and the year to come with laughter, tears, and cherished memories.