Simply Made

Bedtime Questions

2012-01-30T20:50:00.000-08:00

Our kids have been asking some of the toughest questions at bedtime lately. Some are related to movies watched, some are from books, some are related to people they know, ect.: "Why do people get divorced", "What's a hernia", "What happens with puberty". Since I am usually tending to Abigail, they sure do have Ian spinning in circles. I've heard this is a time when kids can really open up. I do not want to be squelching that, but also do not want support a convenient way for them to delay bedtime either.

A new way to worship

2012-01-29T10:13:00.000-08:00

It takes some planning, but I am now able to join the congregation with a sleeping Abigail in my arms. While pregnant, I would foreshadow these moments. How sweet it is to sing and worship holding a child I did not think I would get to have. A direct, tangible, poignant gift from my heavenly father.
In addition, Everett has recently made the personal choice to join me in the adult service. Well maybe not me, but some family friends. He sits with the young gentlemen. Sometimes close. Sometimes with more distance. I am so proud of his personal choice. That we have raised a responsible and respectful young man so far. That he is learning about our God in a new way.

And Isobel? She skips herself to her own class (E picks her up). She excited to go and tells me all about it afterwards.

I love that we are all enjoying going and learning.

Food Issues

2012-01-18T21:10:00.000-08:00

Is it the weather or what? There have been some interesting food happenings here. I said yes to Everett's request to a marshmallow. Apparently you have to roast them first. This tactic work surprisingly well, although I'm sure there's a warning sticker somewhere on the oven that says not to do this.

And this? This is what Isobel made as part of her lunch, and more shockingly ate! A peanut butter and mayo sandwich (on gluten free bread of course).

She has a good track record for eating what she makes. Such as blueberries in her split pea soup and sugar snap peas in her yogurt. As long as she eats it right?

We made the choice for me to be dairy free months before Abigail was born. In the years following Everett and Isobel's infancy, we believe that dairy played a huge part in their nursing. So since October I've been cheese, milk, and yogurt deprived. Then it got worse. Isobel became gluten free. She had been complaining of stomach aches for quite some time. She only mentioned it when given a task to do, so we never quite believed her. So we took her off gluten see if 1) she got better 2) the lack of favorite foods out weighed the tasks requested.

And she quickly felt better. If it worked for her, maybe we should try it for Abigail via me. Oh joy!! And what do you know, Abigail became less fussy and her acne skin cleared up the same day. So now I'm gluten, dairy, and bean free. Yes, I eat a lot of oatmeal, nuts and non-gassy

produce. But meals must be made and deserts sought out. So Isobel and I made our first gluten and dairy free cake. It turned out great! After being heavily influenced by the show "Cake Boss", Ian and I decided the kids should ice their own cakes:

This is one of my best childhood memories. My mom would let us pick out whatever style cake pan and decorate it per our request. She is an amazing cake decorator and it's what I remember most about my birthdays.

And some pictures of Abigail just for fun:

Achievements

2012-01-16T14:22:00.000-08:00

Lots of hard work going on over here:
Ian and I figured out how to have a great snow day with minimal effort. There was no snow at our house, but there was at his parents house! Mom and Dad were great!! They came and got the kids, played with them, and fed them.

We (I mean Carolynn) discovered that Abigail had Thrush. She took the fact that I will do anything she tells me to a new level. She claims that she "forgot" it dyes your finger purple!
But, she has taught me many other things though. Like how to teach a baby to sleep. This is a MAJOR accomplishment for me (and her). I was thrilled that one of our babies took a two hour nap, away from home, and in a bright room.
As today has not been this easy with her sleeping, I am holding onto these moments of capability.
As for the "big kids"? They each have moved onto the next math level. Isobel was more than thrilled to get her new math book.

2012-01-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

It seems that my days are consumed by getting food in (and out) of Abigail and getting her to sleep. At one time she was great about going to sleep on her own. This weekend it all seemed to change. Now we have the heart wrenching task of teaching her to help herself to sleep. Oh my heart! But babies should sleep for longer than 20 or 40 min!! But all of this has brought me to my God on my knees. It is obvious I can not do this on my own in my own strength. Or without the friends he's given me (who I call for wisdom, help, and distraction). But, it has provided routine times for Everett, Isobel, and I to gather and pray for her, our patience, and peace in our home.

And in the meantime, we are still schooling, cleaning, and playing. Sometimes it looks like this:

Our "big kids" took advantage of the wind and rain. They enjoy extreme weather. Soon they came in asking if they could put mud on their faces. Ummm, ok.

See I don't feel like getting out much these days. I find it extremely nerve racking to leave the house for the one hour that Abigail is not sleeping or nursing. I'm happy to have people over or pay shipping costs on the household needs. Such as utilizing diapers.com. I needed diapers, diaper cream, and breastmilk bags, and snack bars. They were here at my door in two days with free shipping. Love it!

I must have had it easy

2011-12-03T11:25:00.000-08:00

Because this is hard. Newborns are not easy, and this is our easiest one. But things are getting better. Right before thanksgiving I got sick, could not eat or drink, and became dehydrated to the point of needing IV fluids in the ER. Lack of sleep was not helping, but that too is evening out. School work is pretty basic but gaining ground. In fact everything is in basic mode: dinner, laundry, shopping, cleaning. I'm blessed to have friends and family calling to check on me and dropping off needed items. Thank you so much for caring for all of us!

Oh Pray Please

2011-11-21T09:22:00.000-08:00

Abigal's night have been getting worse. It was a bit familiar to drive for acid reflux reasons at midnight last night! It is my first day alone with three sweet kids. I never thought that would be scared of that ;-) My husband went to work with only two hours of sleep. He is facing a ten hour day and over an hour drive. My kids are facing another day of a less than ready moma. Pray for restoration and healing.

Abigail's Story

2011-11-18T20:55:00.000-08:00

Well since I'm horrible at journaling, and there is no mention of this sweet girl, let me back up about 9 months. I had just gotten back from an Above Rubies retreat. A great few days away to be strengthened in my faith, homeschooling, and Biblical wife and mom stuff. On the way home I started not to feel great however. Yucky tummy and such. I thought I might just have a cold,but to put my hopeful mind at peace, I decided to take a pregnancy test. NEVER thinking that it would actually be positive! Oh my heart!! So now I had an explanation for my "cold" to explain to my husband ;-) However, the "cold" just got worse.

So here we are, in the doctors office with our two kids, trying to quietly explain the pregnancy (I have a horrible history of miscarriage, and we did not want to further frighten the children) as I'm slumped in a wheelchair and very pail. So off to hospital I go to be admitted due to the flu!
I quickly send a text to our family about the flu and ask for help with the kids. Before they leave us, we've had to quietly tell other medical staff about the pregnancy. One nurse was not so quiet (and our son is smart) and before we knew it, Everett looked up at Ian and said "Mom's gonna have a baby?!" Our answer? "Well, maybe", "We don't know yet" and alike. totally warping his sense of conception we know, but it seemed better than breaking his little heart if we miscarried. So now what? If the kids kinda know and our family will be coming to see me and care for the kids, we kinda gotta tell them too. So I did. It went like this "Hi mom, I'm in the hospital. I'll be fine. I have the flu. The kids are covered. Ian is disinfecting the house . . . and I'm pregnant". When my mother-in-law came to my hospital room, I joyfully told her too. Although in my extremely pale, eyes half open, nearly dead look, I'm sure she thought I was delirious. I was able to convince her just in time for my father-in-law to arrive. My yearly retreat usually as me away during his birthday weekend. So when he got there, I told him I got him a present, but he'd have to wait nine months to hold it! He had recently had a dream that there was going to be a new little one in the family.
So that was the beginning. I recovered from the flu and began 5 or so months of morning sickness. Serious head in the toilet, don't want think about let a lone eat anything, fabulously sick! For my pregnancies that was great news. Then it got interesting again. At one of the ultra sound appointments, it was discovered that the baby had excessive fluid in the back of the neck. This could be a whole lot of nothing . . . or a big something (chromosome abnormality, heart defects). I had been on a medication that had recently been deemed dangerous for
unborn babies possibly causing heart defects. Further testing would need to be done. Amen than Aunt Emily came with the kids and I to this appointment. She had taken them for a walk while I talked with the doctor, thus trying to absorb what he was saying. We chose to do further testing because we (I) was wanting a vaginal delivery after our two c-sections and it would matter where the baby was born for that.

It was a long couple of months. The chromosomes were as God knitted. So we kept driving to Bellevue to look at the heart and waited for it's development and

technology to be in sync. Four chambers? Check. Valves? Check. All working together? Check. Working properly? Check. Around six months along was when it was all over. And all without peeking at the gender of the baby! That was Ian's one request again. And since he gets to participate so much, I thought I could accommodate :-). Much to everyone elses dislike.
The next hurtle? Find a doctor and a hospital willing to help in our VBAC. That brought us to the University of Washington and Dr. Ma.

The doctors there had the facility to care for us if the 1% chance of uterine rupture happened. So back and forth we went, meeting great doctors and nurses that took time with us to answer any questions we might have and care for every possible development. My doctor appointments took on average over an hour! We never felt rushed or as an inconvenience. Everett and Isobel even enjoyed going. Ian's work schedule allowed him Friday's off, so he was finally able to come and talk to the doctors too. It was great.

The picture above is 24 hours before my water broke. My water broke here at home. Something I totally was not expecting, but glad to have happen. I had been have contractions for weeks and this was a clear sign that it was time to go. Which was good since I had my small team of support, Carolynn and Renee, coming with me. They had their professional jobs to do, plus I was counting on them as friends for support and protection from over eager doctors (which there turned out not to be). They were great! Renee distracted me by talking about homeschool stuff. Carolynn prayed with me and spoke peace amongst other physical help. And my husband? Wow! Fabulous. He breathed with me. He held me up. He encouraged me. He made tough decisions with me. It was a long road. Thirty hours. For twenty or so of that I was only 1 cm. We had done everything possible to get this baby out. The baby was down and engaging (that must have been around the time I was yelling at people that they just didn't understand the amount of pain I was in). I was almost completely effaced. And yet not dilated beyond 1 stupid cm! The hospital wanted the baby born within 18 hours of the water breaking. We were well past that. Here was the final check. If it was not more than 1 cm, it would be all over and headed for another c-section. The doctor was taking forever on this check. I told her, "Don't humor me with a simple improvement. Just tell me what it is!" She said she was taking so long cause there was so much change. Like 7 cm!! Ian and I looked at each other in disbelief. We had just succumbed to an outcome we did not want, only to realize now that there was a chance we could do it. I had three hours to make it happen!

The next thing I remember is my people telling me that they are bringing in baby stuff. They are getting ready for the baby to be born. The doctor is getting dressed. What? Really? I get to do this? In fact it is time to start pushing. An hour and a half of pushing. At first I was not sure about progress, until I could reach down and feel the head! Oh what a surge. A few more pushes and SHE was out.

Abigail (my father's joy)

Lael (Jehovah's gift)

6lbs 14 oz

21"

11/12/11

1:52 am

I'm so blessed

2011-11-17T18:31:00.000-08:00

As I lay here recovering(I'll get to the reason later), my husband has been doing all the cooking, cleaning, housework, ect! He tells me to quit it and rest, if he finds me back in motion. I apparently don't stop moving very well. I find it very hard to sit and allow myself time. The kids are eager to help and enjoying the time off school. We had been working hard since the start of the year, because I knew we would need this time off! Ian goes back to work Monday, and I'm already thankful it will be a short week for him due to the holliday.

Picking right up where we left off

2011-08-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

This is my friend Amy. We met in a birthing class over eight years ago. I clearing remember her saying that she had just starting wearing maternity clothes! We were in our 3rd trimester!! My regular clothes nearly quit fitting in my first week. We became good friends all the same.

I was recovering from delivering Everett, when Amy and James walked into our hospital room. They were in the process of birthing their first daughter Chase.
Chase and Everett became good friends too. A few years ago, after the birth of daughter #2 Cameron, our friends had to move about 45 min away. That has not stopped us moms having dinner together every couple of months, nor our kids picking up wherever they left off. Despite time, distance, and interests, these kids instantly match up and take off playing.

Today they introduced us to a new beach of theirs. We can't wait to take Ian back with us. It was a great break from the stress of lately.

Sailing

2011-08-13T22:14:00.000-07:00

Today we participated in Discovering Sailing Days with the Scouts at the Community Boating Center. After an hour of land instruction on rigging and parts of sail boats, we were off to ride a 31 foot Catamaran. Ian rode up front, where the kids to crawl to him and ride also.At one point we asked how fast we were going. Nine miles per hour seemed so slow to how fast it felt!
Isobel was enjoying watching the water flow by underneath her.
On the way back, Everett go to steer us part of the way home. He had navigate around patches of seaweed too.

It was a great day.

Summer School

2011-08-06T20:41:00.000-07:00

One of my brothers showed Everett the joys of a PSP. Everett then worked, saved, and researched his way to PSP ownership. Weeks later, another one of my brothers (and Papa) showed Everett the joys of a dirt bike. Everett has now been working, saving, selling the PSP, and researching his way to dirt bike ownership. Coincidentally, Everett's math lessons have been focusing on place value. Perfect real life application:

Ever tried taking your family in a row boat?

2011-07-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

In attempt to complete some Cub Scout requirements, I've highlighted Everett's Bear book with things we could complete this summer. Rowing a boat was one of them. Here the boys try:

We had a great time at Silver Lake

On the way home, we stopped ever so briefly along side the road and look who walked out behind us

2011-05-25T20:36:00.000-07:00

1st Eye appointment

2011-03-04T08:06:00.000-08:00

If you take a child who is learning to read to his first eye exam, when asked to "read the line", it might sound like "bbbbkkkknnnnpppp" in stead of stating the name of the letter "B" "K" "N" "P".  Love it.

B'ham weather bad

2011-03-02T20:22:00.000-08:00

The effect of the 49 mile per hour winds. It knocked down the chicken's fence too. Thus they were out and about when Ian came home and found all the destruction.

Everett turns 8!

2011-02-10T21:29:00.000-08:00

Our oldest turned 8 today! We skipped school and went to Water Mania. As a special surprise I had reserved a Johnathan Park for the trip. This is the face of someone who is over 7 and therefore does not need to be within arms reach of me:

We had a great three hours! After changing, and a quick stop at Ikea, it was off to Karate class, then dinner at Grandma and Papa's. Everett's cake request was of course from Pure Bliss.

Happy Birthday Evie

Ode to Aaron

2011-01-11T18:47:00.000-08:00

This is young man (10 yrs) is a friends son. He is a joy to have here:

1. He likes my cooking (happily eats, never asks for more; i have to offer)

2. He is a good sport (he plays great with both our kids, respects our rules)

3. His manners at the table are dream like (prays, asks to be excused, ect)

I am happy to have him at our house anytime. Oh and

4. He prays for my husband everyday!

I don't want to forget

2011-01-04T19:54:00.001-08:00

Christmas 2010:

Isobel, completely un-coached, gave her brother a big hug and a sincere thank you for the doll he gave her.

Everett's favorites are known by his sister: $10 and his favorite drink.

How well the kids understand dad: wood shop and coffee gift certificates.

I got to see one of my brothers! Last time I saw him it was before Isobel was born. He is two years older than me, has a job of his dreams and a new love.

My family sent me on a number scavenger hunt for a beautiful necklace.

Breakfast in Seattle. A first.

The large box of karate gear that made the kid's jaws drop.

Remembering that Christmas gives us our savior! A new life in Him and a new year for it.

Parental Milestone

2010-12-20T22:34:00.000-08:00

About a week ago we crossed a parental milestone . . . orthodontics! Normally averted at Everett's young age of almost 8, but with three dangerous cross bites all involving adult teeth, it seems time for attention and action. So, oh to keenly remembering my orthodontic nightmares, I mean memories, I'm taking him to multiple doctors for multiple choices. So far it has paid off. We have seen two doctors. Both agree on the problem. Both have offered a different way of achieving the same goal. Both have included Everett in the discussion. Both want my arm and part of my leg ;-)

(Before the short jokes start, I know my leg isn't worth much)

Mascot

2010-12-08T20:21:00.000-08:00

Everett: "Momma, what's a mascot?"

Me: "It's something or someone who represents for a group. It's usually something very strong."

Isobel: "Daddy's our mascot!"

Dating at 32

2010-11-27T19:50:00.000-08:00

It was like a dream! My date picked me up in a stretch ride of pride and gave me a pretty flower. We spent most of the day going to all our favorite places and shared a nice meal. I had a great time and feel so refreshed.

Translation: Carolynn asked if I wanted to go to Black Friday with her. I told her it was like being asked to prom. She met me with one of her daughters hair ties with a flower. I wore it on my wrist all day. After a quick ride in her van we went to all the great sales and favorite stores. We had lots of fun and finished up with a lunch out. See, all the markings of a great date.

You've been warned

2010-11-17T20:49:00.000-08:00

We were invited to participate in the Young Historians night. Isobel went as an Egyptian Princess due to our history study. Everett went as a Karate student and explained the beginning of Karate.
Here is the desert we brought. A sweet version of sushi. And your warning:

They are learning quickly and we are very proud of them both.

Solar System field trip to Canada

2010-11-08T21:24:00.000-08:00

lights on Earth seen from space

cute kids in space suites

Duct tape holds Earth together, velcro holds space together

Space bedroom

Thank you moma for going with us!

I can't blog and it's driving me crazy

2010-10-28T19:51:00.000-07:00

Power of the Sun

2010-10-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

Spelling power

2010-10-11T20:24:00.000-07:00

Success!

Success?

God's sense of humor

2010-10-11T20:04:00.000-07:00

Found this tomato in our garden over the summer.

Guess if you can create the universe and all that live there, why not play around too.

I cleaned his side of the bedroom

2010-08-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

Anniversary

2010-08-22T21:40:00.000-07:00

First, Congratulations Nic and Stef! They were married this weekend and had a rocking party to follow. I was honored to be a bridesmaid. I hired Stef six or so years ago for our MOPS program. Somehow . . . she was always Everett's teacher. She quickly became our favorite babysiter, and Nic too became a family favorite. Three years later, when we found out we were pregnant again, I asked her if she would be Aunt Stef to the kids.Isobel was a flower girl.

Our children started dancing at the first song (me too)

Bel lasted a long time,

But Everett just . . . kept . . . going. He was quite the hit! His feet were moving so fast, it was amazing. People kept asking where he learned how to do that. They were shocked to learn that he is a homeschooler without cable.

I gotta say that there is no better way to remember why you got married than to attend a wedding of close friends, and hear the vows you too agreed to.

How our family eats ice crem

2010-08-16T19:30:00.001-07:00

It saves on dishes!

Suprised!

2010-08-15T20:14:00.000-07:00

My sweet husband has know for a few days that my family was coming to surprise me for my birthday. So Sunday went on as usual. The four of us had been watching a movie, I was school prepping . . . and there were my parents and sisters pulling up outside our house. So surprised!! Here they were with a chicken dinner, every vegetable and fruit, plus my favorite desert and a cake. Balloons too. My son and daughter presented me with a Shuffle and an App Store gift card that they thoughtfully sought out with their dad. More wow! Thank you Ian, Moma, Papa, Tracey, EJ, Tiara, Everett and Isobel. I totally feel spoiled.

This summer is on warp speed

2010-08-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

Since my last post, we've went to camp:

Group Camp Picture (E middle of blue line, B front of pink) Kalina reading Isobel a letter from home (my hand writting of what Ian would have said)
The highlight of Isobel's time may have been holding Apollo

Everett making a straw cross bow

Getting ready for bed in the tent

Isobel waking up after a night in the tent

Bel's dirty feet. See the flip flop lines

Us going to sleep

Camp fire and smores

Knot tying craft

Rejoiced in two more babies born, Papa had surgery, one Scout hike, one Scout bike ride, was rear ended on the Guide by a hit and run driver, went to a wedding shower, attended boot camp repeatedly, helped a friend pack to show her house before they left for a camping trip. A few more things too I'm sure . . . .

Logan Andrew

2010-07-26T21:24:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Andy, Heather, and Rhylee

She looks a little happy

2010-07-19T20:55:00.000-07:00

Everett received a bottle rocket kit for his half birthday. Once Everett used up my small bottle of vinegar from the baking cupboard, Ian went and bought a much larger one. It's been downhill ever since! I've given up ever getting this bag of baking soda back either. Especially after this young one was left alone with it.

You might be a homeschooler if . . . .

4 and 7.5

2010-07-17T22:07:00.000-07:00

Isobel and her Jaja

2010-07-16T22:07:00.000-07:00

Not to different than my Moma

2010-07-16T21:37:00.000-07:00

This was me in my kitchen making strawberry jam and watching one of my favorite shows on our laptop.
I will have to find the picture of my moma watching football on a t.v. as she created one of her gingerbread master pieces.

One big difference: My moma knew what she was doing

Hope

2010-06-29T21:33:00.000-07:00

My parents were married 25 years ago today! Twenty five years ago I got married too. I was 7, missing teeth, and sporting a feathered back hairdo (that's me in front on the left). Twenty five years ago my Papa chose the four of us and my moma chose the five of them. The years to followed were jammed packed full of ups and downs. It gives me hope that two people can survive all and still choose each other. Thanks for being an example moma and papa!

Track

2010-06-21T21:56:00.000-07:00

After menu planning, shopping, post office stops, meal prepping, and eating dinner (all with Aunt Stef) we were off to the much anticipated track night.

(This is a big brother running a race alone. He just finished running behind Isobel on her race per her request. What a guy!)

(Isobel running a 400m)

2010-06-02T19:46:00.000-07:00

Everett woke up at 5 am with a scorching fever (103.5)! No other symptoms thank goodness!! After a movie or two (hey its a sick day, AND his sister was still asleep) he was out.That left Isobel and I solo. As it so happened, Isobel and I are trying out a new preschool curriculum. Her subject this week has been about nutrition based off the Bible truth of David, Shadrack, Meshach, and Abedego refusing idol meet.

(Isobel 3)

Here she is working on patterning by creating kabobs. She had a lot of fun.

(Isobel 3)

This was an idea I probably got from here or here. Being the simple girl that I am, I bought an acceptable set of flowers from Goodwill and used wire cutters to separate it all. Being the awesome man he is, Ian offered to do the drilling into a narrow mouth jar lid. Now we can have custom made flower arrangements more often. (I plan some extention ideas off of colors and sizes too)

And Everett? A drink now and then, but mainly . . . asleep. All Day!

(Everett 7)

So Isobel and I had even more time for "preschool". Lets count . . .

Here, Isobel is counting food the Hungry Caterpillar ate. If it corresponds to the number on the card, she clips a mini clothes pin onto the happy face. Likewise, if the food does not add up to the number printed on the card, she clips the pin to the sad face (you can find them here). If she is right, her clothes pin will be resting on the yellow star I put there.
This was her response 11 out of 12 times. Daddy was shocked. I was thrilled. Both of us proud.

So with sleeping handsome on the couch, we made dinner. This is my little baker. All the time "Moma can I bake/cook?" Tonight she helped create enchiladas.

She rocks!

When?

2010-05-29T20:42:00.000-07:00

Oh how he wants one! Everett is patiently waiting for his first knife. He looks at them in stores and in store ad's. He wants to know when he can have one. Any suggestions? My feeling is based on maturity and when he can be responsible with it (which I think he can do). What do you think?

Just my style

2010-05-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

I might just have to do this

Another milestone

2010-05-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

Isobel walked into the kitchen about three weeks ago and said "Daddy, I want to take off my training wheels". After a couple of inquisitive looks between Ian and I, he grabbed the needed tools and headed out. A couple of minutes later I hear "Tami, you gotta come here and see this!" Yep, there she was balancing like a pro and riding her bike without training wheels. She turns four in two months and has a new passion. Everyday "Moma, can I ride my bike?"

And completely unrelated: A friend of ours has a post about her chickens. So I thought I would join in. This is Bommer. In the early spring we let the chickens prep the ground where we were adding a new garden. She managed to get to the top of this bush and just seemed interested about getting in.

4th tooth

2010-05-26T08:07:00.000-07:00

After days of trying to get it out, Everett's tooth fell out just as we started school yesterday. It made some of our language lessons a little difficult. Front teeth are needed to sound out words (v, f, th, . . .) It went ok though and we are all happy this tooth is out!

For My Mom

2010-05-09T21:24:00.000-07:00

My moma was raised by a single father in the 50's. Grandpa Everett (sound familiar) was an engineer, WW2 bomber crewman, and a student. He really was a hero. Without him, my mom would not be who she is and I would not be who I am. Education has always been a big one for my mom. She even tutors students at her local elementary school now. So part of my gift to her was a donation in her name through Samaritan's Purse to help a child learn to read and write through their gift catalog.

The other part of her gift was a text to look up 3 John 1:4: "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in the truth"

She loved both. I wanted her to know that I know her, her heart, her hard work, and that her generational dream is important to me, my heart, is my hard work, and will be my generational dream too.

I love you Moma

2010-05-04T20:44:00.000-07:00

Due to budget cuts, there will not be a garage sale in 2010.

No county wide garage sale? I'm crushed . . . .

Unscripted Family Time

2010-05-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

Weekends are usually unpredictable around here. After baseball practice we went down to the farmers market. This was a new vendor and a definite highlight:

Everett blending a smoothie by pedal power.

And I think I fueled a fire. Isobel LOVES to have her toes painted. I went back to Jen for a touch up and took Bel with me. Jen had some extra time so we indulged Isobel. Look at that face. As we were having this great girl time, the Ian and Everett were having man time. I love that. We finished up by having soup, sandwiches, and a movie all together.

She choose lime green by the way. Totally Bel!

Just for the record

2010-04-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

Pictures from our hiatus:

We've been swimming a lot. Weekly swims with Aunt Heather and Rhylee, birthday parties, and vacation with Jaja and grandma.

Isobel's (3) anuall cherry blossom picture

Add a big brother for good measure (Everett 7)

We released the frogs (Hermi and Henrietta). It went a little like this:

and a little like that:

It was a little hard to let them go. We all had grown fond of them. But this was the best for them.

The kids and I went to Vancouver, BC for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Just to say "we were there". Aunt Stef was very brave to join us on this adventure. It was very cold. There were a LOT of people (go figure). But we were able to see the Olympic Flames and eat at the most Canadian restaurant we could think of . . . Tim Horton's

Short answer

2010-04-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

I had a friend recently email to ask where we have been. The blog has been silent, co schooling has not resumed, and she is not much of a phone talker. Thus a fair question. It has taken this long to replace our computer. Though with mainly only one, it has been difficult to wiggle my turn in there.
So what has happened lately?
Isobel learned to ride a bike without training wheels
Everett flew a kite at Seaside Oregon
Ian had two requests for table information
Gus failed puppy school
I've been desperately trying to keep a clean house and provide good meals.

Where are the pictures? Provided that they were taken, probably on the main computer and hopefully to come . . . .
But aren't you happy there is something different to read here :-)

Ugh!! and Grrrrr

2010-03-19T23:16:00.000-07:00

My computer is dying. It lasted a whole 4 years. I will see what it will take to fix it but, To Mac or Not To Mac? What do you think?

Vineyard

2010-03-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

This was the last step in making a scout rank for Everett (attending a sporting event). In our school work he has earned other achievements, however, until he completed his tiger rank, he could not receive them. Ugh! I get it and understand. But right now we are in the process of slowing things down for the goal of being less busy, for the purpose of a united family. Kind of like pruning a bush for stronger roots and thus a better fruit. So I have canceled the two of four nights that we were scheduled to be out of the house during or after dinner.

Deuteronomy 22:9 (niv) Do not plant two kinds of seed in your vineyard; if you do, not only the crops you plant but also the fruit of the vineyard will be defiled

Psalm 107:37 (nkj) And sow fields and plant vineyards,That they may yield a fruitful harvest.

I will be tending our vineyard . . . .

My Co-op Villiage

2010-03-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

Definition: An association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned enterprise.

Life application: Someone who is invested in you and your families total well-being. They may talk you of that ledge during a math lesson with your son, encourage him over the phone, and suggest he call your son once he has completed it. One you can count on for dinners when you are sick. The prayer, correction, wisdom and encouragement you know is in stock. The revolving system of clothes, home and educational materials.

I love my Co-op. I'm an investor!

Enough is Enough

2010-03-11T20:58:00.000-08:00

I started this post this morning. Such is the reason. Remember that a quiet blog is a busy family? We has been to busy for our own good. Since my last post we have let our frogs go (story), purchased four more chickens (story), poisoned myself with pepto bismol after a migraine (story), did lots of Scouts stuff (pictures), made valentines with our church and handed them out in nursing homes, celebrated the Chinese New Year with friends (pictures), took a hike with new friends to a beach (pictures), went to the 2010 Olympics with a good friend (pictures), and a few other things. The Above Rubies Retreat is this weekend and I am more than ready. Yes the break will be nice, but I am more excited for what God has in store. We have been to busy. God has been working in my heart, and my brain has been listening, to his re alignment of my priorities. If I feel this excited and motivated before I go, I can not wait to get back . . . .

Click

2010-02-26T20:11:00.000-08:00

Reading seemed to "click" yesterday for Everett! My friends said it would. It would just take time. His time. In an unplanned reading lesson, Everett read book #4 . . . then #5 . . . then #6 . . . then #7. Not all perfect. Not without help. But with desire and pride! There has been no stopping him. He gets upset when I say we need to take a break so I can do other wife and mommy things. Way to go Everett! We are so proud of you. Good work!!

Not so fast

2010-02-18T21:17:00.000-08:00

E: Hey mom, I think I'm getting those things like dad (raising his chin and feeling as he references whiskers)

Me: (smile) Oh, yeah? (thinking: not so fast!) Me and Everett at Lake W during record heat in 2009

My daddy can do anything

2010-02-17T18:43:00.000-08:00

(with completely unrelated pictures)

(my sister Tiara and Isobel December 2009)

Bel: What's eodel (remodel) moma?
Me: Where we take it all apart.
Bel: How would we do that?
Me: With tools. It would make a big mess.
Bel: Oh daddy could do that.

(Isobel February 2010)

An Olympic Dinner

2010-02-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

Much like the Olympics, my post is not starting out the best. However, our meal focused on the country of Canada who is hosting the 2010 Winter Games. Here are our Olympic pineapple rings. The rings went our French toast (missed the photo) and this ham.

And of course Maple syrup!This? This represents Canada's favorite sport . . . hockey.We hope to watch some of the games too.

Cause or Effect?

2010-02-10T20:39:00.000-08:00

See the handsome guy in the red? That is our now 7 year old son. Happy Birthday Everett!
Wednesdays I teach school lessons via cub/boy scout requirements. This Wednesday was Everett's birthday so we work towards our ice skating belt loop. I am not sure the answer to last post question. Am I crazy for them or because of them?Or is it their influence? Their mothers. Yes, those ladies who roller ice skate while talking on cell phones. Or the one who hosts a two day summer camp at her home. Or the one who makes meatball cupcakes? Or the ones with the wisdom and impactful sayings that get stuck in my head that make me a better mother and wife?
Or is it for this: The sister standing next to her brother . . . on purpose. The boys being close. The fact that these 12 children, ages 1-12 helped, encouraged, and learned from each other.

I like my crazy! And I will keep doing it for ALL the above.

Who am I?

2010-02-09T19:48:00.001-08:00

We started our morning here:It was mentioned that an Olympic torch was passing near by. It was an awesome opportunity, even if it was at 7:20 . . . in the morning! Only for them. 1. We were in the car by 6:30. 2. It was freezing cold 3. And we had to run . . . I am NOT a runner. It was worth the 15 minutes of their "I'm cold", "Can we go" tears to watch the flame run in and stop right in front of us:

I have no idea who he is or anything. Just a guy approved to be running with fire through town. After that we went for some hot coco and breakfast. We managed to do some math while we waited for the food. Next was Goodwill (because we were within walking distance and therefore its gravitational pull was no match for me). Believe it or not, we did leave, and came home to do more school. Then as planned these lovely faces arrived.Everett and I had discussed taking them to the driving range. There are not any fantastic pictures because I only had my phone. Needless to say, they all did GREAT and LOVED it. Cai has an amazing follow through for a boy who has never tired it, Tucker was determined and Hez once again looked like an older, wiser, methodical gentleman. Everett had some serious distance and Bel was thrilled with any distance and too cute for words. We finished just in time to drop them off and head for gymnastics.

Who is this crazy lady . . . having to much fun with her kids.

He Rocks

2010-01-19T21:40:00.000-08:00

Our hero is working late. He left this morning and is working the swing shift too. He will come home, sleep, eat and return for his normal shift. We wanted him to know he was not alone and that we appreciate it. We sent him this picture at work.

Chicken Soup

2010-01-17T20:25:00.000-08:00

I'm a little under the weather. All I wanted to do was curly up with some chicken soup to feel better. Although allowed to curl up. . . it was with a whole chicken. Yep, you read correct. She may not have crossed the road, but one of our ladies did apparently cross paths with Gus. Not exactly sure what happened (they have been use to each other for over a month now) but I was called out by family to care for the situation. After coaxing her out from under the porch, I wrapped her in a bath towel and held her close and still. She was in obvious shock. Not sure if she was going to make it, the kids and I prayed for her to have peace and gave the situation over to God. After a while she livened up, so I took her to the back yard. She walked around fine yet hesitantly. She eagerly entered the hen house. I waited and watched. When I returned there was another egg. She is perched for bed time and doing great. Without the marking (to easily see which one was injured) you would be hard pressed to know which one she was.

He just won't quit

2010-01-14T06:36:00.000-08:00

Everett is in love with science. Everyday he asks to do an experiment! I am not complaining. I am so grateful that he has a huge interest, that I can meet his need, that he has a teacher that is listening to him. We have twenty science books on their way to us from the library. They won't all arrive at once so he will have a variety to choose from for a while. The assault on the counter tops continues . . . .

Sold

2010-01-12T20:10:00.000-08:00

Back in November Ian submitted one of his wood tables in an art gallery in Seattle. He received the call today that it has sold. Apparently a gentleman took note of it three weeks ago. My guess is that he must be thinking about it quiet a lot since he called up the gallery, paid over the phone and asked for it to be shipped to Kentucky! If only this gentleman knew what he has really bought: A one of kind piece, hand made by a self taught wood worker, in a tiny back yard shop. Way to go Ian. I am so proud of your courage.

P.S. If you would like to see another one of Ian's pieces Artwood has one in the WINDOW and near the counter inside.

My momma made me clean my house

2009-12-31T21:53:00.000-08:00

While our basement was flooding, I called my mom and raised the white flag. I know that I call our families for anything at anytime and they will be here. But once they are called into action it is difficult to call them off. Since it seems to be a city responsibility, and the nature of the water was something we definitely did not want to to deal with, we hired a company to do it. So while the basement was being dredged out and defungified, my sister organized a school shelving unit out of control, (after she brought coffee and donuts, her labeler, and organizing boxes) my dad hung out with the kids (and they loved it), and my mom made me clean my room . . . and more (but she cleaned our bathroom, changed our sheets, did our dishes and laundry!) . It makes a great start to the new year. Thank you so much moma, papa, and Tracey.
P.S. I fell asleep before I could take pictures. What a week . . . .

Let's recap, shall we

2009-12-29T21:05:00.000-08:00

So our blog has been quiet lately. Here are some reasons why. That sleep study and machine are not making a difference yet. I am still so tired at about 1 or so I very honestly can not keep my eyes open, driving or not. I am on my third trial mask. Let it be said that I did not try my best! The kids though are not helping. Seriously, our son was recently seen for health and sleep issues (falling asleep and staying asleep).

Then there is this guy:

Oh sure, he looks cute and Innocent now! He is tired from potty training, seeking out Isobel's dolls and stuffed animals, teething on Everett's Lego's, and dragging out dirty laundry where ever he finds it. Really, he is a lot of fun . . . but a lot of work too. He does great in the car (as you can see), is learning to obey (I can not wait for Everett's elective school course of dog training classes to start in January). He has been so sweet to all our friends kids too. Boxers are just awesome family dogs!

But back to it . . . . Christmas happened. Yikes it came and went so fast there are barely any pictures of it. Just the traditional Santa pictures for my mom (only for her and his 40 year tradition, other than our focus in on the birth of Jesus!)

Then there have been days like this: Who are they you ask? Fantastic city employees! You see, my husband is working nights. So once again the kids and I (and the dog) need to vacate the premises early so daddy can sleep. Today I was originally going to post about how I live life with my friends. I do! We do! We care for each others kids, make meals for each other, pray for each other, school with each other, vent and praise together. So today was no different with breakfast at Carolynn's then a walk, games and lunch. Simple right? That was until I decided to get a frozen dinner from downstairs in the freezer. Simple right? That was until the 6 inches of water and possible electrical current persuaded me to go no further. Ok, guess I will get dinner later, let Ian sleep, and tell him when he wakes up. So after minimal sleep my knight rises, learns of the problem and takes action. Simple right? That is until four hours and $200 later you are know further along than when you started. So I start calling pluming companies to admit defeat. Simple right? Nope. Many are over booked so no immediate help. As I go to inform Ian, he is coming in to inform me that the neighbors have 6 inches of yucky water too. Hmmm? So we call the city. Simple right? Nope. The dispatcher can not reach anyone. With the water level rising I start emptying my freezer and filling the kitchen one and a neighbors with all our hand picked berries and frozen meat. On my way back to meet the one plumber I could find, I hear a loud truck noise. That's right! The sewer company DID respond and started working on it right away. Simple right? Until Carolynn calls:(She offered to keep the kids so I could attend ANOTHER sleep related appointment). Her van has run out of gas and is stranded with her six and our two kids in her 12 passenger van with it's flashers blinking that no one, including a police officer, has stopped to check on. (*for the record she states that this has not happened since 1988*). So I leave Ian to hash things out with a city manager as to the damage to our home, grab our full gas can and hustle out to meet her.

With everyone settled back at home, I feed the family, sweep.mop.and vacuum the kitchen floor to kill any nasty germs from our boots during the day. Kiss Ian good bye (on the cheek since I have a cold), play with then tuck in the kids, feed the dog and contemplate the next step.

So see, just since the blog is quiet, does not mean that the house is.

So Simple

2009-12-07T19:15:00.000-08:00

Our children's favorite toys of late are so basic! The old fashion piece of rope is in high demand. Right now they are having a giddy time with an unopened package of pull ups. Recycled items, soap, paper, ect. Nothing in current society someone would set out to purchase "toys". This should make Christmas easy . . . .

Meet Gus

2009-12-06T21:10:00.000-08:00

Therapy in action. The days following Tegan were defiantly missing something. Like four legs. Do we wait? Do we not? We told the kids soon, but not right away. That was Thursday. Friday we searched online and local. Saturday we drove to Everett to visit this guy. He seems to have found Tegan's groove and fallen in it. Loving it!

He's great! And we are having fun.

There's Stuff On My Floor

2009-12-03T20:05:00.000-08:00

and there is no one picking it up. Our beloved Tegan passed away today.

I had to call Ian home from work. I have never done that. I have asked him to hustle home, but never leave work. He happens to work only 5 minutes away and our son needed his daddy! He was here right away. I was strong until I saw him, then I lost it. He was so strong and took action. He did all the right things right way, even making dinner. It could not have been easy for him.

It made me start sobbing all over again as I brought in the dinner dishes. Pre-dinner ingredients on the floor and scraps on the plates. Tegan was a birthday present to Ian 9 years ago. My husband wanted a house, so he could have a yard, so he could have a fence, so he could have a dog. Tegan was our first living responsibility. He was a moma's dog though. Always right behind me as I worked in our home. He would cuddle with me in the morning as I drank my coffee. This bedtime hour is super hard though. Everett and Tegan have always been together as far as Everett is concerned. In fact, Tegan probably had more of the bed the last couple of years! He was our buddy and a family member. Here are some things we will remember about him:
-The way he always walked himself home the last hundred yards or so of a walk, playfully wrestling his leash as we went.
-The large guy thought he was a lap dog . . . at 90lbs!
-How he SO gently took treats from your hands
-Protector of his kids and their friends.
-If he barked he was allowed to eat it, since he rarely did. Chances were if he did not like it, we would not either.
-He would sit so upright, he looked like a human.

I've been wanting to say something for a while now

2009-11-26T22:13:00.000-08:00

This is my friend. I love her. She is the best cook I know (that will only offend you until you enjoy her cooking). Her home is warm and welcoming. She has a Master's in organizing a full home. She always looks fabulous. Her wisdom is superb in faith, marriage, and homeschooling.

At times we school together, together, shop together, pray together, vent together, and encourage each other. And to think I could have missed out on all of it. I met her six years ago on a whim. I was at her house with my first born, who was still so young and laying in front of me at my feet, when her then baby boy, toddled over and sat on Everett's head. Being a new mom, at a strangers house, I did not know how exactly to handle the situation. Remain calm? Can you remove someones child? Comment to his mother? Nock off her son to rescue my own?

It is now a story that we laugh about as our boys are now great friends. We talk multiple times a day! And I am blessed to have her as one of my core friends.

Oh, HE is so good

2009-11-19T21:25:00.000-08:00

The weather is crazy right now, like 60+ mph winds. Earlier this morning (1 am) Ian was working at the hospital making sure its generators and breakers could power everything during a power outage. Good thing since we lost power at 7:30 tonight. I was out having dinner with girlfriends, when the power went out there too. Since dinner was over and Ian texted me "the kids are freaking", I thought I would stop and pick up batteries and flashlights, that I had been dragging my feet in buying. I loath the price of batteries! God had us covered though. I spent a disgusting amount for them, yet due to sales I saved almost half. Half! On a night where the power goes out. Cool. Thank you Lord for always covering the details (and my little behind).

Nights and lights

2009-11-15T21:43:00.000-08:00

Our house if full of problematic sleepers. As babies, our kids would not sleep. Older now, Bel falls asleep almost instantly and Everett usually does . . . except for those nights where he just can't fall asleep. Both are up way to early. Anxiety, stress and a snoring wife keep Ian awake. Me? I only look asleep.
We do our best to combat such issues. Going to the bathroom, taking a bath, story, water, blanket, (forcing wife to go to a sleep center) all for the goal of sleep. However the last two nights have had those elements that you want to control and those you could not.

Night #1:Ian packed up the kids to track down the source of the search lights. The kids were wondering and speculating as to what and where they were. The found them about 15 minutes later at the grand opening of our new children's museum. Fun and a memory. They things we want them to recall "Hey dad. Remember the time we . . .?''

Night #2:This? This is tonight. One of the nights E just can't sleep. It also happens to be the night that Ian noticed someone breaking into his car (we were just in the living room, lights on and everything! porch light too!). We called the police after Ian peddled around the block on my bike, since his was stolen just this last August. The police came. And Everett was allowed to get out of bed to talk with the police officer and then watch the search of Ian's car.

That should help everyone relax and sleep. Sheesh!!!

Not found in a book

2009-11-11T19:19:00.000-08:00

Today was Veteran's Day. I wanted today to be authentic and full of honor. This morning Everett was more than willing to complete a simple and basic book about the Armed Forces from Enchanted Learning. Then we watched some YouTube clips of the Changing of the guard of the Tomb of the Unknown. As a craft to hand out, we made poppy flowers that had became symbolic after WWII. I explained that we might not see very many WWII veterans due to their age. But we did meet one. The gentleman on the far left was 17 when he enlisted. The two gentlemen in the middle both served during the Vietnam War. The gentleman on the right gave me a complement. In reference to the flower (some red paper hearts, a black circle, on a pipe cleaner, with a tag), he said "This is the highlight of my day". Exactly! I was so hoping a our little paper and glue would relay our thanks. We attached tags to our flowers that said "we will learn". Learn instead of remember because I hope to make history real to me and our kids. I myself, have no first hand experience at the effect of war or a military family. I thought today might be a way to change that.

Today we heard their stories. We saw some of their eyes well up. We heard their answers to our questions. We shook their hands. We said thank you, and heard thank you. They appreciated the intention of our time.

We also went to the local flight museum to see some big planes. Then we went to papa's house to watch A League of Grateful Sons from Vision Forum. Although it was a good school day, I would make some changes. My mom must join us next time. And be to the Memorial Park at 9 am to hear the 21 gun salute and hear the taps.

P.S. Oh, they loved Everett's uniform. Many of them were cub and boy scouts too.

No Posts

2009-11-09T18:09:00.000-08:00

To say that I am tired sounds cliche and like a broken record. You see, I currently can fall asleep no problem and stay there even. Way different than a couple of years ago when I could not fall nor stay asleep. The problem is that my brain is on (and on, and on, and . . ) I seem to have a restricted airway and thus my brain is repeatedly checking to make sure that there is air available. I know this because of my sleep study: Here I am with 2 chest band, 2 eye, 1 in each nostril, 1 mouth, 4 chin, 5 brain, 2 chest, 4 leg (that I can remember). That box in my hand was connected to each of them and my sleep was recorded. On your mark, get set, sleep . . . . They asked (as I am sure you are) "How did you sleep?". "No problem. No kids. No husband kicking me out for snoring". Just me, my blanket and pillow all in what looks and functions just like a hotel room. All the hook ups were not a problem. I woke up as much as I usually do.

The result: NO REM sleep. Can you believe that. I was shocked. Picture a non beating heart; a flat line. A good sleep will record curves below the line. Mine only did it once at the beginning of the night, 10:30 or so. In fact, that was the only time it dipped down, the rest of the night my "curves" were spike after spike of waking up. I am thrilled to know that this fatigue, fog, and lumberment (?) to complete a day is not just in my head. Now it is witnessed, recorded, documented, and on its way to being treated.
How do I feel about falling asleep with a mask on my face? Fine, if I can feel more human and capable. How does my husband feel about such a sexy embellishment? Fine since he will get a good nights sleep too, and his wife might be more able to tackle her tasks.

Please do not let this post or picture scare you off from investigating your sleep or health (Mrs. B I'm talking to you!!!) Even if I do not end up with a machine to help me breath at night, I may need a medication instead to let my brain relax for the night. I'll keep you posted.

Not a boy, but a young MAN

2009-11-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

Everett is continuing to work on his gun safety pin. For that we headed to the gun range. Ian showed him how to load the .22 then it was his turn. Everett loved participating in such a grown up activity. Ian and Andy took him up in the wood over a year and a half ago. He can remember EVERY detail. He would love to do more "man things". All in due time Anyway, after the loading it was time to shoot.

Not that Isobel was board, but rather chill about our new activity. She kept wondering when her turn was. It reminded me of when my brother started his gun lessons. That was the exact moment I wanted to too. Everett wanted to try shooting outdoors too.

That's when she got her turn. Ian did a great job being a patient calm teacher for both kids.

In case any of you locals are wondering, our family entered and received targets for $20. On Tuesday nights it is Family Night. For that you receive the same PLUS a .22 and ammo. There is both an indoor and an outdoor range and an ear friendly lobby to watch from. I thought there was great information on the walls. The Ranger was nice too! It was nice to have our family (read children) welcomed and not shunned. He says that if the grant goes through, the family deal may be free starting in January.

For our family we want our children to have a healthy respect for guns. We want them to know how to handle them safely and what to do if a friend is more than a little curious if they ever come across one.

Twenty minutes is not twenty minutes

2009-10-29T16:15:00.000-07:00

An elevated heart beat of twenty minutes requires:
10 minutes of getting ready
10 minutes of getting the kids ready . . . what, you thought you could do this alone?
More time spent if not working out at same location
30+ minutes working out for the goal of those original 20 (go, stop, solve kids problem, start going again, stop for something else, etc)
10 minutes changing clothes and think what might be to their next question "Now what mommy, what's next? How are you going to entertain me NOW?"

See it takes an hour or more to complete those 20 little minutes!

Field Trip

2009-10-27T20:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we took a field tip to my parents house. My family hunts deer and elk and so there is a wealth of knowledge regarding our new subject of guns (gun safety and history leading up to the Pilgrims for Thanksgiving). The pictures are poor, but our day was so much more and great.First we started with a gun safety video. Then Everett recorded what he learned to do if he found a gun 1. Stop 2. Don't touch 3. Leave the area 4. Tell an adult.Then after a discussion of how to handle a gun (always point it in a safe direction, always treat it as if it were loaded) it was time to show and tell through the gun safe (posting pictures of that makes me nervous about privacy though). It was very cool for me to see my papa teach my son in much the same way he taught me. It was cool too for papa and I to use our hunting and camping memories to teach Evie. It was NOT cool to see the height difference between me at 10 vs. Everett at 6 with the SAME rifle! I'm gonna be a little momma to a big boy.

As with any grandparents house there are highlights. At my parents place it is the Wii and the hot tub. So since we were learning about guns, they did a little target practice via the Wii. Thanks Papa! I had a great time . . . and E did too.

Proud

2009-10-25T20:38:00.000-07:00

I believe Saturday was national Make A Difference Day. A church we have been trying out is big on community, and so participated. Our project was a park clean up, that just happened to be across the street from our house. So the kids and I geared and loaded up. Everett's participation fulfilled some Contenders and Scouts requirements . . . as well as warmed my heart. The first thing we had to do was clear the blackberry bushes. That is not easy! But many hands make light work. E was GREAT! Once shown how and what to do, there was no stopping him. In true man style, Everett dug to the roots and yanked them out.

Bel did her part to. I was surprise at how in to it they both were. Ev just kept going and Bel attacked what she could.After the berries were gone, it was time to plant trees. I was proud again at how Everett whole heartily went about his work. He had a mission and worked at it despite me, kid, teen or adult. He easily worked alongside whomever without a second thought.

After planting five trees he was more than ready to move on to something else. What could be more fun for a young man that a claw to pick up trash . . . and gross out your mother with it :)

Way to go buddy. I am so proud of your diligent hard work!

Oh, man

2009-10-21T19:41:00.000-07:00

Monday night was our first Den Night. Everett was part of the flag procession for his fellow Tigers.

Oh be still my heart. Isn't he handsome! Sorry for the blurry pictures. I was trying to salute, recite and photograph all at the same time. He LOVES scouts!

Historical Dinner

2009-10-20T08:04:00.000-07:00

We too went to the Historical Dinner. Since we are still studying colors and Noah, I kinda insisted that Ev go as Noah. He did a good job putting up with my character choice.

Not wanting to be left out, Isobel and I dug through our dress up box and found this. It is actually my old horse show outfit from when I was four + Ian's old hat and Everett's clothes pin gun from our trip to Winthrop = Little Annie Oakley. She was SO cute!I love this photo. Two of her friends came as Indians and our little gun slinger.Ian was a trooper. At the last minute he decided to dress up too . . . as Cesar. Does he look confused? I might be too if I was having a dinner conversation with a 3 year old Sacajawea.I attempted to go as Helen Keller. That did not go so well. I talk to much.

Everett presented his ark we made out of popsicle sticks. It was 1/120th scale with a picture of Everett on a scrabble square (1/2 in) to show how truly massive Noah's job was.Thank you Syndi for all your effort for a great night.

Schoolbucks

2009-10-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

Daddy has will be working nights for a short while. He arrives home just as the children are waking up. Today he had a bedtime snack that was our breakfast. Then it was time for school . . . at Starbucks. We took our workbooks and enjoyed apple cider or in Everett's case hot coco. Language went well until we got to math. Everett does better when he can physically move to help his thought process. Such as when asked what is 45+1? He would stand at a wall, say "45" then jump one time to "46". Well of course Isobel has to join in to. We did a few of those and were outta there! But off to where? Can't go home yet. So during this week we will be bribing and crashing at friends houses to do school with them too. Today, Renee graciously opened her door to us. I explained to my kids that it was still school time and that they nor our hosts were free to play freely. Not wanting to disrupt her home, we said a quick hello and got to work. I had brought a pattern block activity for our youngest students and a bingo type game. It was fun to have more than one 1st grader and a few above and below that to round out my group! It was not even until lunch that we moms sat to say more than our previous hello. It was a good home school day away from home

P.S. Please pray for Ian as he is working on a runway (not is use yet), in the weather, at night, then driving home one hour.

Great Day

2009-10-07T20:51:00.001-07:00

Today was THE DAY. As Ian was getting his table out of the car the kids and I prayed for daddy's nervousness, then we were off. It was a bit odd to be walking around down town Seattle with a table under arm. I love the fact that our kids are getting to see first hand to try something new. . . just try. Here is a picture of it from a while go. And here it will be (hopefully, there is one more jury to go). http://www.nwfinewoodworking.com/ Ian has entered it in a box competition. It will be for sale and up for people's choice award (All those in Seattle go vote!)
The rest of our day consisted of Pike Place Market,

Where we saw lots of different kinds of arts. There was a very nice lady working with watercolors. Her work was beautiful. I thought her little travel art kit was way cool. I asked Evie to smile and this is what I got.

Then stopping at Dick's was a must! The kids and I bring them back to Bellingham for dad when we go. That's how much we all love these burgers.

We made a picnic of it in the back of the car. You never saw such four happy people. Until we loaded back up to go to grandma and jaja's. What a fantastic day and Congratulations Ian!

2009-10-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

Our art unit continues . . . . Coloring coffee filters and dipping the ends in water was way cool. Seeing it soak up water and having the colors separate was exciting. Yes, this moma sacrificed her coffee supplies for her children's fun education.We even painted our lunch. It's been a fun unit. You should see our ark! (later)

Isn't this cute. I found this awesome book at the library.(Hand-print Animal Art by Carolyn Carreiro). I love hand prints!

Art in the family

2009-10-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

Still working on colors. Here we tried to color celery a secondary color. First it was in a primary color, then we moved them to different colors. Since then I have seen this accomplished in our science books by splicing the celery and having it rest in two primary colors to make a secondary. Guess this will be a demonstration in the scientific process . . . and retry.

Here is our homemade finger paints. The kids (we did this on a Friday that I work so Nic was able to fully participate too) each were able to choose a color and watch it mix in by stirring it. They thought this was cool, then it was mix and art!

Here is a table Ian has finished. It is at Artwood now. Sometime soon we will be taking another table down to Seattle. He is ONE of 60 participants in a Seattle show and contest! We are so proud of him.

On to Colors

2009-10-01T21:05:00.000-07:00

We are done studying frogs (though our friends Hermie and Henrietta are still here and loved). We have moved onto colors. Last year nearly all our friends did a study of rainbows. So in keeping up with the Jones' and to check it off my list, it is our turn. Our study seems to be a mix of colors with art appreciation and Ark blended in. The kids are loving the paint, water, and mess. It seems to be a thumbs up. (Everett playing "Value", a bingo style math game http://mygamevalue.com/)

After mixing our primary colors thus creating our secondary colors they used eye droppers to decorate white felt pieces. I had to mop the floor but it was worth it. The experiments are art!

All her own

2009-09-30T07:20:00.000-07:00

Isobel has patiently waited and watched Everett play soccer and baseball. She has done fantastic allowing us to watch and cheer E on and often times joining herself. So, being that she is three this fall, we thought she might like to do the drop in soccer she has only watched this far. Everett was going to be one of the field helpers. I love how many of the kids we know will play with boys and girls of all ages. Alas, it was a no go. Isobel just wanted to balance on the bleachers, climb by the windows, and cuddle with me (I'm not going to turn that down!). Maybe it's not her thing. Gymnastics?

Finally Scout day

2009-09-28T19:52:00.000-07:00

Everett has been counting down the days till the next scout event. We are not even officially enrolled. (Don't tell him, yet we own all that he needs). Everett has slowly entered this pack. Two weeks ago, we went to our first meeting as visitors and he was hooked. Today was a short hike with playground time to follow. Although this must have been the highlight about 2 minutes into the hike: a mouse ALIVE, in the old fish ladder. Oh how the boys got excited to see it while this momma and a few others curled our toes while cringing a good distance away. Everett came running for the camera. Eeew, even now!

(the mouse in scurring in here somewhere)

In our pack, siblings are welcome to join. Bel walked most of hike and did a great job listening when it was time too. She seemed to have liked our day.

Like that was not enough to do plus the school work earlier in the morning, we had planned to collect some spider webs for our up coming unit study. Because it was so late in the day and it had been a little windy, most of the webs we found were less than perfect. But they were full of bugs and stuff that we might not find on a morning hunt. Cool all the same and we look forward to preserving more and comparing them.

(web hunting at our neighbors house)

2009-09-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

My new blog time needs to be in the morning. Hopefully with coffee it will be coherent.

Every so often my children find the camera and I am gifted with special pictures. This is totally Bel. Carefree and somewhat wild. Love it.

Praying for you

2009-09-16T06:20:00.000-07:00

Ever feel like it is an uphill battle? Some of my friends are facing major struggles. I'm praying for you!

Frogs

2009-09-10T19:49:00.000-07:00

Meet Hermie and Henrietta (well maybe next time they will let me take their picture). They each were found a friends houses while we were visiting. Hermie has been here for a while now. Flies are served every morning and night. They are easy to catch next to our coop. Everett cleans out the box and changes the leaves and water at least once a week. We met Henrietta today and thought Hermie would like to have a friend. Thank you Erik for sharing her with us. What great compassion and generosity you had for a fellow frog friend!

I knew frogs would be a good school subject, I just did not have it all laid out yet. It's coming together though.
Here is another school success. Glue, in a bottle, applied with a small paint brush. A whole lot less mess.

2009-09-03T20:54:00.000-07:00

This is our new mailbox for school. In the back compartment is scrapbooking paper cut to fit into envelopes that are in the front compartment. The top drawer holds sticker type address labels. The bottom door is my favorite. It holds these. When Everett was in preschool, I made an alphabet picture book where each person's name (or pet name's) reference represented the letter. I hated to take it apart for 1st grade. On the back of each previous picture, I wrote their address to reflect an envelope (rectangle for return address, square for stamp). Now after the kids chooses a paper, write a note, places it in the provided envelope (with the same rectangle and square), they can easily find the picture of who they'd like to send it to, flip it over and correctly address it. We have used the mail for school quite often. It combines hand writing, spelling, creativity, phonics, ect. Plus grandparents and friends love to get them.I do not know why this photo is posting sideways, but this is Everett with my mom when he was 6 months or so. The other pictures shows the shapes and where the address would be.

I don't want it to end

2009-09-01T20:30:00.001-07:00

This was suppose to be a simple walk to the park. The kids found the dress up box before we left. So down the street went a pirate, spider man, super 3 year old, a pretty lady, another pretty lady, a General, a boy scout and a boy scout hope-to-be in baseball pants. Love it

This is a different day with a new friend. He is the son of Ian's first journey man from 10 years ago. I called them up one day, and these two just have to much fun. Our friend Stevie is another one of thirteen children. Lots of fun. I like it too, his mom is great also.

After a summer like this, I do not know if I will ever get him back inside for school work.

I'm a little tired

2009-08-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

Harvesting what I've grown.
Storing others

And preparing what we can.

We did the fair.

Evie really liked the kids roller coaster. And all the animals.

Isobel rode on more rides this year. This one she had ride by herself. Everett was to tall to go with her. Yikes! Little miss independent did just fine

Ian takes the day off just for it. We all had a great time.

And planning for this upcoming school year. By blog time at night . . . .

It's been 11 years

2009-08-22T20:48:00.000-07:00

I was a 17 and he was 18. We met through a friend of his, that I worked with, at our local theater. Our first date was on Dec 28, 1995. I wore his promise ring the summer of 1996 (yep, 6 months later :) We were married at the daisy/country/ summer wedding of my dreams on August 22, 1998. I wore my grandmothers necklace, my friends earrings and Keds. The sweet guy that he is, let me choose EVERY detail with only one request: where the cake came from . . . and some flavors. Although, he did thumb through a wedding dress catalog and while showing it to me said he did like "this dress" . . . it was the same one that I had ordered and had made special for me and my short little legs! Out of all those pages?!
On our day, we were surrounded by friends and many family. It was the best party and I did not want to leave.

2009-08-19T19:00:00.000-07:00

This is my friend. One of my great friends. And this is normal for her. A baby strapped to her, patiently deciphering a young ones request, while steadying another (hers or not). I have a few friends with these great skills. And honestly, right now we are under attack. Satan is doing an awful lot to prevent us from planning our homeschooling year, by trying to sabotage our families, marriages, health, finances, ect. Homeschooling and raising our children according to the word are some of our top priorities and Satan would like nothing more than to prevent it. Please pray with us as we lift up homeschoolers, marriages, and families

I just . . .

2009-08-12T07:16:00.000-07:00

Love her! She is go go go . . . Highly independent until hurt or tired, then its her arms wrapped around my neck and nose to nose trying to get closer and closer. LOVE IT! Thank you Jesus for choosing us for each other.

Just for the Record

2009-08-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

He rocks! During the Great Heatwave of 2009, Ian managed to find us an air conditioner. In true hero form installed it as soon as he got home from work. The window board is not pretty, but hey, he used only left over materials. It fits and works perfectly . . . and the picture makes me giggle. Thank you dear for your skills . . . and humor!

One more off our list

2009-08-02T20:47:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of 2009 we sat down as a family and collaborated on a list of places and things that we wanted to see and do. This was our Mt. Baker trip, Everett wanted to do. He had a side mission of retrieving a frog (at any age of development). There's my hero. The one hiking with a three year old on his shoulders.

Mr. Accomplishment

Miss Daredevil. None of you are really shocked are you!

Three indulging this wife and momma

Snowball fight on a glacier in August. Have to say though that most of them seemed aimed at me . . . purely because I was a sitting duck (taking pictures, observing, ect)

Gorgeous. Oh and the kid and scenery are not bad either. God makes good work all the way around.

Hot?

2009-07-29T22:11:00.001-07:00

It's been a little warm. This is a solar cooker. It is a cardboard box rearranged with tinfoil glued on. Direct the wings towards the sun and let the reflective surface cook your food. The black pan and glass top are key. Raising it just a little by resting it on small rocks. Yesterday this was our lunch, a quesadilla. It took ten minutes. The pan and lid were to hot to touch without a hot pad. The cheese was melted, meat hot, and the tortilla beginning to curl! Today we were brave and tried a small portion of sausage. It took longer to cook but still fine. So we threw the rest in. It really seems no different than a crock pot. Dad has requested solar pizza tomorrow.

So while dinner is cooking we have tried to keep cool. We have been to a beach up north twice, a lake to the east, grandma's pool, neighbors sprinklers, and our local pool. Sometimes two of those in one day!

It's been a little warm . . .

Isobel 3, Everett 6.5

2009-07-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Lord, thank you for these two!