I had two realizations last night.
1. The next time I decide to make a new recipe involving cutting corn off the cob, I should move the tooth that fell out that morning off the counter. Only because the corn makes a mess (and flies everywhere when being cut off the cob) on the counter and one tooth and one kernel of corn look really, really alike. So far, no hard kernels have been found in the corn and black bean salad I made.
2. Always have an extra tooth on hand. Thankfully, this was tooth #7 that had fallen out, so I had some "spare teeth" up on my dresser. I've heard the tooth fairy isn't too picky as to which tooth she finds under the pillow.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Monday, September 17, 2007
all that's needed is the mini-van...
Saturday was Sam's 1st soccer game. Ed and I were pretty horse after yelling for 40 minutes. "Keep going! Go THAT way!! Move up!! Kick it, kick it! Great job!! Good try!! Awesome block!" It was very entertaining. The purple people eaters won 5-1. With of course, one point being the other team scoring in their own goal. It pretty much went, kick ball...mob follows...kick ball...mob follows. Every time Sam kicked the ball, he would stop, turn around and wave at us as the game continued. All the guys did an awesome job. By the end, I think they figured out that when you kick the ball, you go after it instead of standing there.
This Saturday it's supposed to rain. I can't wait!!
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
huh
Who knew that when a pop can is knocked off a top shelf, when impact is made, it can explode out the side, shooting a good 15 feet into the kitchen, cover the pantry door from top to bottom, and cover four sets of legs that just happened to be standing there, trying to decide what type of fizzy to have. Obviously not that can.
Who knew that when a bowl is accidentally dropped onto the hardwood floor it doesn't break. But when accidentally dropped onto the head of a 3 year old, it breaks into five pieces, leaving a shard in her forehead, a goose egg on the side of her head and a black eye from the impact.Who knew that pop could be so hilariously funny and kids heads so hard.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
1st grade
1st day of 1st grade. He told his grandma that it was "really hard" as they had to color a lot today. He asked if I could wash his shirt tonight so he could wear it again tomorrow. I suggested for him to pick out something different. He met a new friend who gave him his juice box since he didn't have anything to drink. He was scared and teared up when he was dropped off as he didn't know where to go. Dad was his hero by helping him out in the unfamiliar situation. He was awake at 5:45 this morning and "just couldn't go back to sleep". It is the 1st night of his 6 years of life that he has slept without bunny. The tender-hearted, care-free, not-afraid-to-hug-his-mom, thinks his dad is the ultimate coolest hero, little boy is still in there.
Seeing how some prayers change. From asking Him to keep him healthy in the womb, that he would be ok in delivery, for surgery's and doctor checkups to be positive and go well, to asking for just one full night of sleep. For him, in his child like faith, realize what Christ has done for him to asking for a good friend who will treat him kindly and not guilt him.
Soon enough he'll be going into jr. high. That literally IS how fast time goes.
It's amazing how one little person can grip your heart, sometimes squeeze it, sometimes make it burst. And no matter what, you love him with everything you have.
Monday, September 03, 2007
flying
This weekend was packed full of some fun, but mainly all work.
Friday night was BBQ with the family and then a night parade to watch my niece play in the drum line.
Saturday the parents were here and each of us accomplished so much. Ed finished re-wiring the basement and ended up with a good 10-20 yards of wire that was not being used throughout the house. He also mowed the grass (which is a two hour job). Dad patched the ceiling in the garage where the previous owner had cut a nice hole out of it and left it and painted the stairway in the garage. Mom took down the lovely border in our bedroom. I cleaned up the basement and had a nice "to sell" pile, some of which has already been sold. I also chopped down the five bushes at the end of the driveway so now people can see when pulling out!
Sunday was church, nap and more cleaning.
Today Ed pulled/dug out all the roots from the bushes I chopped down, worked some more in the basement, shampooed the carpets, and had a little bon fire in the front yard with gasoline, matches and bees. I picked up Candy Land, dropped off baby clothes and went to the store. We dropped off our very first computer (Ed's Ipod has more memory than that thing did) to Goodwill, dropped off boxes to a family that's moving and somewhere in there ate lunch.
The rest of the week consists of 1st day of school, library, grocery store, deliver meal, soccer meeting, watch the new cute little baby, practice at church (I've been dreaming about ants in my pants), drop off bags of clothes and books, sell more stuff, meet with realtor for the house, get the truck ready to sell and I think that's it.
Now it's time for bed.
Friday night was BBQ with the family and then a night parade to watch my niece play in the drum line.
Saturday the parents were here and each of us accomplished so much. Ed finished re-wiring the basement and ended up with a good 10-20 yards of wire that was not being used throughout the house. He also mowed the grass (which is a two hour job). Dad patched the ceiling in the garage where the previous owner had cut a nice hole out of it and left it and painted the stairway in the garage. Mom took down the lovely border in our bedroom. I cleaned up the basement and had a nice "to sell" pile, some of which has already been sold. I also chopped down the five bushes at the end of the driveway so now people can see when pulling out!
Sunday was church, nap and more cleaning.
Today Ed pulled/dug out all the roots from the bushes I chopped down, worked some more in the basement, shampooed the carpets, and had a little bon fire in the front yard with gasoline, matches and bees. I picked up Candy Land, dropped off baby clothes and went to the store. We dropped off our very first computer (Ed's Ipod has more memory than that thing did) to Goodwill, dropped off boxes to a family that's moving and somewhere in there ate lunch.
The rest of the week consists of 1st day of school, library, grocery store, deliver meal, soccer meeting, watch the new cute little baby, practice at church (I've been dreaming about ants in my pants), drop off bags of clothes and books, sell more stuff, meet with realtor for the house, get the truck ready to sell and I think that's it.
Now it's time for bed.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
final conclusion
Today I laughed. Not at the circumstances, but at the way life goes. Today was a "top off the week" day.
At church our son's number came up for a parent to come get him out of class. This is the first time this has happened in the six years he has been living. Ed dashed down there (I'm guessing as the number disappeared pretty quickly). My mind was racing. Did he get in trouble? Did he get injured?
Afterwards, I found Ed and Sam sitting on one of the steps towards the rear of the room we were attending service in and Sam wasn't looking too great. He didn't even want a cookie.
So we made it out of church in record time with only chatting to a few people and Sam was half asleep by the time Alina and I got to the truck.
It takes 10 minutes to get home. Two minutes into the drive, Sam started crying saying he felt like he was going to throw up. Sure enough. Breakfast from yesterday came up (eggs look the same before and after being eaten) with lots and lots of water. Of course we had no towels in the truck or anything to give him. And it kept coming and coming and coming. Ed pushed the speed limit hurrying to get Sam home as he was soaked and everything around him was soaked.
I stripped him down and took him to the shower. Then the fun job started. Cleaning up. Puddles. Dripping. Chunks. All in the fabric of the car seat. Thankfully the regular seat is leather so I could sop everything up. I almost did lose it. Almost, but held it together.
A good dose of Frebreeze later, everything smells lovely and all is back to normal.
Even Sam. His words getting into the shower were, "What are we going to have for lunch? I'm getting hungry".
At church our son's number came up for a parent to come get him out of class. This is the first time this has happened in the six years he has been living. Ed dashed down there (I'm guessing as the number disappeared pretty quickly). My mind was racing. Did he get in trouble? Did he get injured?
Afterwards, I found Ed and Sam sitting on one of the steps towards the rear of the room we were attending service in and Sam wasn't looking too great. He didn't even want a cookie.
So we made it out of church in record time with only chatting to a few people and Sam was half asleep by the time Alina and I got to the truck.
It takes 10 minutes to get home. Two minutes into the drive, Sam started crying saying he felt like he was going to throw up. Sure enough. Breakfast from yesterday came up (eggs look the same before and after being eaten) with lots and lots of water. Of course we had no towels in the truck or anything to give him. And it kept coming and coming and coming. Ed pushed the speed limit hurrying to get Sam home as he was soaked and everything around him was soaked.
I stripped him down and took him to the shower. Then the fun job started. Cleaning up. Puddles. Dripping. Chunks. All in the fabric of the car seat. Thankfully the regular seat is leather so I could sop everything up. I almost did lose it. Almost, but held it together.
A good dose of Frebreeze later, everything smells lovely and all is back to normal.
Even Sam. His words getting into the shower were, "What are we going to have for lunch? I'm getting hungry".
Saturday, August 25, 2007
I knew I should have knocked on wood or something along those lines before writing the last line on the post below. It has been an adventurous couple of days already!
The vehicle did get fixed. But now needs repaired again. Ed and I were up at 4:15 Thursday trying to see where the very strong odor of gasoline that was filling the house was coming from. The blue beast was sitting looking all innocent in the garage, but the puddle under it was all the evidence we needed.
It has been a very rainy week with some strong storms. One such storm knocked our
power out again Thursday night right at dinner prep time. Thankfully, the pizza place was open as I was not able to make anything. So it was bon appetit by candle lite. Followed by a camp out in our room. I had forgotten how loudly Sam breathes so I was up the majority of the night and even attempted sleeping in his bed with little success. I tried to wake him up to go into his bed, but he was almost in tears as he loved the adventure of slumbering in his sleeping bag in our room and didn't want to leave.
As of right now, this weekend is looking uneventful but as always, that could change in the blink of an eye, or the flicker of lights.
The vehicle did get fixed. But now needs repaired again. Ed and I were up at 4:15 Thursday trying to see where the very strong odor of gasoline that was filling the house was coming from. The blue beast was sitting looking all innocent in the garage, but the puddle under it was all the evidence we needed.
It has been a very rainy week with some strong storms. One such storm knocked our
power out again Thursday night right at dinner prep time. Thankfully, the pizza place was open as I was not able to make anything. So it was bon appetit by candle lite. Followed by a camp out in our room. I had forgotten how loudly Sam breathes so I was up the majority of the night and even attempted sleeping in his bed with little success. I tried to wake him up to go into his bed, but he was almost in tears as he loved the adventure of slumbering in his sleeping bag in our room and didn't want to leave.As of right now, this weekend is looking uneventful but as always, that could change in the blink of an eye, or the flicker of lights.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
wrap-up
A catch-up post if you will:
Clean-sweeping the garage that resulted in an entire bin full of garbage, a pile of freecycle items and a pile of items to sell.
Cleaning out the pantry that I kept shoving things into only to find new habitants, in the form of white worms, had set up dwellings. Bleach and a trash bag full of food later, the pantry was clean.
Waking up to an amazing thunderstorm this morning only to have the power go out, and later hearing and watching a pine tree topple in the neighbors yard.
Having the other vehicle fixed. Hopefully no more fixing anytime soon.
Seeing a door firmly close with a polite "no thank you" spoken concerning a job that may have not transpired anyway and being very ok and at complete peace with that decision.
Visiting a church that we have never been to and actually running into people we know.
Having half of the basement ceiling on the floor. Intentionally.
It has been an exciting four days. Should be interesting to see what the rest of the week holds!
Clean-sweeping the garage that resulted in an entire bin full of garbage, a pile of freecycle items and a pile of items to sell.
Cleaning out the pantry that I kept shoving things into only to find new habitants, in the form of white worms, had set up dwellings. Bleach and a trash bag full of food later, the pantry was clean.
Waking up to an amazing thunderstorm this morning only to have the power go out, and later hearing and watching a pine tree topple in the neighbors yard.
Having the other vehicle fixed. Hopefully no more fixing anytime soon.
Seeing a door firmly close with a polite "no thank you" spoken concerning a job that may have not transpired anyway and being very ok and at complete peace with that decision.
Visiting a church that we have never been to and actually running into people we know.
Having half of the basement ceiling on the floor. Intentionally.
It has been an exciting four days. Should be interesting to see what the rest of the week holds!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
friends
This past weekend was trip #3 for Ed and the final trip. To fill the days until he returned home, one day the kids and I took a trip to Lansing to visit our good friends Nathan and Kerry Lynne. We've known this fantastic couple for 10+ years and even though they moved to VA 6 months after we met them, we've kept in contact with them over the past several years. Taking trips to VA, meeting a couple times in OH for weekends and several phone calls, e-mails and now instant messaging (YAY for THAT!!). They happened to be vacationing in the great U.P. (eh!?) and stopped in Lansing on their way back and invited the kids and I to come down for lunch and visits. It's been just over 3 years that we've seen each other, so I jumped at the chance to see them when they're only an hour away!!
Their son Josh is one year younger than Sam and those two are like two identical peas in the same very small pod. It was humorous watching them and seeing how much they are alike but yet they each portrayed their uniqueness and awesome boyness. No wonder their dad's are such good friends!! We ventured to the park after the little cutie patootie Eva was put down for a nap and Nathan pulled out the camera and took some absolutely amazing shots of the kids. Which of course I need to share... Thanks for letting me copy these Nathan!!
The hours flew by and it was time to leave. Already talks of Thanksgiving in VA are being discussed.
Their son Josh is one year younger than Sam and those two are like two identical peas in the same very small pod. It was humorous watching them and seeing how much they are alike but yet they each portrayed their uniqueness and awesome boyness. No wonder their dad's are such good friends!! We ventured to the park after the little cutie patootie Eva was put down for a nap and Nathan pulled out the camera and took some absolutely amazing shots of the kids. Which of course I need to share... Thanks for letting me copy these Nathan!!
The hours flew by and it was time to leave. Already talks of Thanksgiving in VA are being discussed.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
What does $47 get you?
It is fix up time around here this week. Car, sink, door jamb, and the furnace. The furnace was our biggest worry with how expensive it was going to cost. A ticking noise could be heard through the house every time the air conditioner came on. The heating/cooling company came out yesterday morning (the last time they came here, we had no hot water resulting from a chipmunk/red squirrel deciding that the chimney was a water slide and ended up in the water heater, clogging up the air flow). The guy said, "it sounds like something is hitting the fan in there." He took off the cover and looked in. Nothing. He couldn't find a single thing wrong. He then reached both arms in up to his elbows and viola! He pulled out a piece of paper and handed it to me. It was an insurance policy. It didn't belong to us. Nor to the previous owners (who were here for 16 years). It belonged to the Werners. How much did they pay for this insurance? $2. What was the insurance for? Halloween Disaster.
Halloween Disaster Insurance
$2
This policy entitles the holder to post-Halloween relief as follows:
1. Wash soaped windows, home, auto, (etc.).
2. Clean waxed windows (except screens).
3. Remove garbage from lawns.
4. Remove "T.P." from premises (except trees, power lines, roofs).
5.General clean-up.
The Senior Youth Group is not responsible for damage done on said premises as a
result of Halloween pranksters. To schedule a clean-up crew, please call the
church office on Sunday, November 1st, between 6:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Senior
Youth Group representatives will be at the church to take calls.
Policy holder:
Address:
Youth signature (needed to be valid):
Thank you for your support.
Keep this policy to present to clean-up crew.
You never know what you'll get for $47.
Halloween Disaster Insurance
$2
This policy entitles the holder to post-Halloween relief as follows:
1. Wash soaped windows, home, auto, (etc.).
2. Clean waxed windows (except screens).
3. Remove garbage from lawns.
4. Remove "T.P." from premises (except trees, power lines, roofs).
5.General clean-up.
The Senior Youth Group is not responsible for damage done on said premises as a
result of Halloween pranksters. To schedule a clean-up crew, please call the
church office on Sunday, November 1st, between 6:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Senior
Youth Group representatives will be at the church to take calls.
Policy holder:
Address:
Youth signature (needed to be valid):
Thank you for your support.
Keep this policy to present to clean-up crew.
You never know what you'll get for $47.
Friday, July 27, 2007
growing up
Tonight a milestone was scaled in our home. To some, this may not mean a whole lot, but to a mom who has been working with her son on reading, this is a HUGE thing. Sam doesn't really like to read. He likes being read to and has started graduating from pictures books to chapter books (with some pictures). It is like pulling teeth to get him to read words, but at the library the other day, I took my time in picking out some very easy beginner books for him to read. I realized how hard it is to find books that have very few words on the pages, and yet are full sentences where every word could be sounded out. I found three. And he read an entire one, all by himself, tonight. You could see he was getting so frustrated with himself over some words, but when it clicked in his brain, he got really excited when he re-read the entire sentence. His eyes lit up and he got a huge smile on his face. Praise filled our home tonight over his huge accomplishment. I'm so very proud of him, and from this big step, I hope he sees how amazing reading can be and all the adventures he can imagine from reading books.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
#2
Today Ed left on trip number two. The past days have been filled with dehydrating chicken for jerky, green peppers and onions for fajitas, apples, strawberries and blueberries to add to the morning oatmeal. Eight sandwiches were baked for lunches, noodles measured out for stroganoff, rice to accompany the fajitas, and every bag labeled for each guy. Breakfasts, snacks, lunches, snacks, dinners. The kitchen has once again exploded with foods for trail mix, oatmeal bars (which I couldn't sneak a few in as all 16 were needed), bags of packaged tuna and apple cider found on the clearance rack at a nearby grocery store. The dishwasher is getting its workout and the rest of the mess can wait until tomorrow.
To end the day after the guys left I started clearing out the shed, garage and basement for a garage sale the neighbors are having. The truck was stuffed full and so much more is going to go tomorrow.
Right now my bed is calling along with the movie I picked out for me from the library. I think a small snack is in order too.
To end the day after the guys left I started clearing out the shed, garage and basement for a garage sale the neighbors are having. The truck was stuffed full and so much more is going to go tomorrow.
Right now my bed is calling along with the movie I picked out for me from the library. I think a small snack is in order too.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
plans
Today Ed left on his first of three backpacking trips for the men's ministry. So with him gone, we're finding things to do to keep busy until his return on Sunday.
Today was helping my dear friend sing at a kids park party by the lake. I love being by the water and the kids did too. I could've done without Ronald McDonald talking to me though (clowns give me the heebee geebees), but all was well.
Tomorrow is blueberry picking!! YAY!!! Time to stock up the freezer to last us through the fall, winter and spring until next year.
Tomorrow night is the musician bbq and Ed's mom is coming for the weekend. Me, myself and I get to indulge in an evening of adult conversation, and eat as slow as I'd like. I'm very much looking forward to it!
Saturday is undetermined as to what is going to happen.
Sunday is church and then Ed will be home by dinner time.
Right now it is time for books and bed. The kitchen that exploded with preparations of camping food for the guys, is mainly cleaned up and will still be there tomorrow morning.
Today was helping my dear friend sing at a kids park party by the lake. I love being by the water and the kids did too. I could've done without Ronald McDonald talking to me though (clowns give me the heebee geebees), but all was well.
Tomorrow is blueberry picking!! YAY!!! Time to stock up the freezer to last us through the fall, winter and spring until next year.
Tomorrow night is the musician bbq and Ed's mom is coming for the weekend. Me, myself and I get to indulge in an evening of adult conversation, and eat as slow as I'd like. I'm very much looking forward to it!
Saturday is undetermined as to what is going to happen.
Sunday is church and then Ed will be home by dinner time.
Right now it is time for books and bed. The kitchen that exploded with preparations of camping food for the guys, is mainly cleaned up and will still be there tomorrow morning.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
thankful
Today is a day of thankfulness.
For:
A washer and dryer.
A working refrigerator.
Fans.
Clothes line.
Communication to the outside world.
Lights.
Water.
Flushing toilets.
The basics that I take advantage of every single day and not realize it.
After a 19 hour stint of having no electricity (which also means no water and no septic), I am truly thankful for the every day items in our home. It made today a really fun adventure though!!
For:
A washer and dryer.
A working refrigerator.
Fans.
Clothes line.
Communication to the outside world.
Lights.
Water.
Flushing toilets.
The basics that I take advantage of every single day and not realize it.
After a 19 hour stint of having no electricity (which also means no water and no septic), I am truly thankful for the every day items in our home. It made today a really fun adventure though!!
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Our holiday
It has been another great 4th holiday. It began on the 3rd with 70+ friends and family gathered at our home to eat very yummy food while chatting and playing games. The evening ended with a spectacular fireworks show across the street and thesmores around the fire pit. Our family was praying all week for the rain to hold off, and other than 30 seconds of sprinkles, it didn't start raining until we climbed into bed
last night. Thank you Jesus!!
Today was a lazy day of sleeping in, going out to breakfast with Grandma, watching a parade, going to a fair for sno-cones and inflatable rides and then out to lunch with Grandma, followed by a nice nap. Tonight is cleaning up the house and taking it easy.
What a great holiday it has been! I experienced the blessings of having a cleaning fairy yesterday who was a HUGE help, the relaxing atmosphere of a large crowd at our home and being able to celebrate our country's birth with my family.
Now the kitchen needs some loving attention and so does the newly decorated laundry room that is keeping an eye on the mountains of laundry that need to be done.
Happy 4th of July!!
last night. Thank you Jesus!!
Today was a lazy day of sleeping in, going out to breakfast with Grandma, watching a parade, going to a fair for sno-cones and inflatable rides and then out to lunch with Grandma, followed by a nice nap. Tonight is cleaning up the house and taking it easy.
What a great holiday it has been! I experienced the blessings of having a cleaning fairy yesterday who was a HUGE help, the relaxing atmosphere of a large crowd at our home and being able to celebrate our country's birth with my family.
Now the kitchen needs some loving attention and so does the newly decorated laundry room that is keeping an eye on the mountains of laundry that need to be done.
Happy 4th of July!!
Sunday, July 01, 2007
blink
Have you ever seen one of those stunt drivers in the movies where their car is flying through the air on its side then lands on it's roof,smushing the car so much that you can't even pick out the windows anymore? That is the only way I can describe the horror that flew before my eyes last evening and is seared inside of my brain. Replaying over and over again. Happening in slow motion. Hearing metal collide into metal. Smelling burnt rubber. Seeing the shocked faces of those standing around me. Everyone standing stone still. Watching. Trying to comprehend what just happened before all of our eyes. Then in the blink of an eye, people running to help all involved. Parents searching frantically for their kids. It was a movie being played out. Or so it seemed.
After watching the fireworks out in a little farm town, from the lawn of a friends uncle's house with the majority of the people our family didn't know, this scene happened. We were getting ready to leave when we heard a horrible metal on metal impact, turned around to see a car hurdling through the air to land on it's roof, on
the lawn, that we were all standing on.
Amazingly, no one was seriously hurt. The 20 year old of the flying car came out with a scraped elbow. How he lived I don't think anyone will be able to comprehend as he wasn't wearing hisseat belt.
I hope I never see, hear, smell anything like this again.
And while sitting there watching the entire town's fire department take care of all that were involved, our 3 year old pipes up and says, "I think we should pray for that man. That he's ok." And we did just that.
A wake up call of how life can so swiftly change. And a reminder of the child like faith we are called to have, to go to Christ with our scraped knees, thankful hearts and crushing blows.
After watching the fireworks out in a little farm town, from the lawn of a friends uncle's house with the majority of the people our family didn't know, this scene happened. We were getting ready to leave when we heard a horrible metal on metal impact, turned around to see a car hurdling through the air to land on it's roof, on
the lawn, that we were all standing on.
Amazingly, no one was seriously hurt. The 20 year old of the flying car came out with a scraped elbow. How he lived I don't think anyone will be able to comprehend as he wasn't wearing hisseat belt.
I hope I never see, hear, smell anything like this again.
And while sitting there watching the entire town's fire department take care of all that were involved, our 3 year old pipes up and says, "I think we should pray for that man. That he's ok." And we did just that.
A wake up call of how life can so swiftly change. And a reminder of the child like faith we are called to have, to go to Christ with our scraped knees, thankful hearts and crushing blows.
Friday, June 29, 2007
flying by
Sitting here working today, I realized I've been doing this job for 7 years. So I stopped and revisted the past handful of years of life.
Moved to our first house.
Sam was born.
Experiencing all the firsts of a baby, including some extras like surgery and hospitals and changing bandages and needles.
Potty training.
Backpacking trips with a toddler.
Catalyst.
Moved to our 2nd house.
2nd baby and all the firsts with her which did not include extras.
Totalling our only vehicle.
10 year anniversary.
Backpacking trip with a preschooler and toddler.
Turning 30.
Ups and downs.
1st day of school.
Growing.
Being broken.
Trusting.
Experiencing the depths of Christ.
Time lived, not lost.
Moved to our first house.
Sam was born.
Experiencing all the firsts of a baby, including some extras like surgery and hospitals and changing bandages and needles.
Potty training.
Backpacking trips with a toddler.
Catalyst.
Moved to our 2nd house.
2nd baby and all the firsts with her which did not include extras.
Totalling our only vehicle.
10 year anniversary.
Backpacking trip with a preschooler and toddler.
Turning 30.
Ups and downs.
1st day of school.
Growing.
Being broken.
Trusting.
Experiencing the depths of Christ.
Time lived, not lost.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
ironic
It's really ironic how the post below can mean something totally different now. When I wrote that, things were not happening like we expected them too. In the weeks that have followed, life has taken several different turns, but the thoughts below still apply. I need to continue keeping my hands open, even if what is happening (or not happening) does not line up with what we like. Of course, it's not at all about what we want, but what God wants for me and us as a family, which is going to be SO much better than what we ever expected.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Surrendering open hands to the Maker's will does not come easy.
A war between self will and His.
Clenched fists.
10 fingers.
Holding on so tightly.
White knuckles.
Realizing that you HAVE to let go.
To surrender the frustration.
The worry.
Doubt.
Ever so slowly the fingers open.
Not out of force, but of one's own choosing.
Each joint creaks.
Until palms are open.
Wide.
To let go.
And receive.
Being vulnerable.
Washed in peace.
Tears.
Deep rest.
A war between self will and His.
Clenched fists.
10 fingers.
Holding on so tightly.
White knuckles.
Realizing that you HAVE to let go.
To surrender the frustration.
The worry.
Doubt.
Ever so slowly the fingers open.
Not out of force, but of one's own choosing.
Each joint creaks.
Until palms are open.
Wide.
To let go.
And receive.
Being vulnerable.
Washed in peace.
Tears.
Deep rest.
Friday, June 01, 2007
meandering
It's raining. And thundering.
It's 2:37 a.m. and thanks to some knucklehead kids running down the street yelling at each other, I am wide awake.
My other half is gone for tonight and tomorrow scouting a trail. I hope he's fast asleep, snuggled in his sleeping bag.
Kids are snoring.
A nice breeze is coming through the window.
An ant on steroids crawled across my arm and scared the begeebees out of me.
I'm not a big fan of the dark.
I do like listening to the rain though. My favorite place to listen to the continuing cadence of water drops is snuggled up next to my husband in a tent.
I should probably go back to bed.
It's 2:37 a.m. and thanks to some knucklehead kids running down the street yelling at each other, I am wide awake.
My other half is gone for tonight and tomorrow scouting a trail. I hope he's fast asleep, snuggled in his sleeping bag.
Kids are snoring.
A nice breeze is coming through the window.
An ant on steroids crawled across my arm and scared the begeebees out of me.
I'm not a big fan of the dark.
I do like listening to the rain though. My favorite place to listen to the continuing cadence of water drops is snuggled up next to my husband in a tent.
I should probably go back to bed.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
choices
Making choices is sometimes one of the easiest things to do and sometimes one of the hardest things to do. It is unbelievable how many choices come to head each day. Little choices like what to eat for breakfast or when to brush your teeth. Larger choices like the severity of discipline your child should get after disobeying comes a bit harder. Choosing a budget and sticking to it. Internal decisions/battles that can affect your being or catapult you back to square one. An array of choices.
I made a choice awhile back to take a break from something that was part of my everyday life. It was made after hearing the pastor of our church talk about taking one thing to fast from and try it for a month. Evaluate after the month and one would find that if a person can live without it one month, why not try for another. How in turn, fasting from something external can affect your internal thought process and the choices of what should/shouldn't be said out loud.
So I prayed about what to fast from and a month later, like a two by four upside the head, I was clearly given an answer of what to fast from. I made it a month. Two months. Then that little voice said, "You can make the choice to stop fasting. You can handle it. You've made it this long and are stronger now than you were months ago. Go ahead." The voice was so faint. Barely above a whisper. Hardly noticed. Unfortunately it was listened to and acted on. The choice was made to indulge and how quickly I sped right back to square one. You would think, "Lesson learned. That will not happen again." Square one has been visited more than once.
That little voice is so persistent. Every day. Day in and day out. It doesn't give up. It also doesn't get any louder, but keeps a steady beat that doesn't skip. Barely audible until I realize almost too late. Funny thing...it doesn't tell me the consequences I will face if I make the choice and accept what it says. That would obviously defeat the entire purpose.
I have had outs. I have taken the outs to keep myself in check. For these I am so very thankful. Prayer, husband, friends, accountability, and learning to change the thought processes and just some.
Overall it has been a very good choice. I am glad my Lord brought it to my mind
and that despite how hard it was to give up, I obeyed. Have failed, learned from the failure, failed again, had to learn again and humbly ask for forgiveness and continue on. Thankfully He is a forgiving Savior who grants grace that is so undeserving and is there to help in all my choices. Easy and hard. Day in and day out.
I made a choice awhile back to take a break from something that was part of my everyday life. It was made after hearing the pastor of our church talk about taking one thing to fast from and try it for a month. Evaluate after the month and one would find that if a person can live without it one month, why not try for another. How in turn, fasting from something external can affect your internal thought process and the choices of what should/shouldn't be said out loud.
So I prayed about what to fast from and a month later, like a two by four upside the head, I was clearly given an answer of what to fast from. I made it a month. Two months. Then that little voice said, "You can make the choice to stop fasting. You can handle it. You've made it this long and are stronger now than you were months ago. Go ahead." The voice was so faint. Barely above a whisper. Hardly noticed. Unfortunately it was listened to and acted on. The choice was made to indulge and how quickly I sped right back to square one. You would think, "Lesson learned. That will not happen again." Square one has been visited more than once.
That little voice is so persistent. Every day. Day in and day out. It doesn't give up. It also doesn't get any louder, but keeps a steady beat that doesn't skip. Barely audible until I realize almost too late. Funny thing...it doesn't tell me the consequences I will face if I make the choice and accept what it says. That would obviously defeat the entire purpose.
I have had outs. I have taken the outs to keep myself in check. For these I am so very thankful. Prayer, husband, friends, accountability, and learning to change the thought processes and just some.
Overall it has been a very good choice. I am glad my Lord brought it to my mind
and that despite how hard it was to give up, I obeyed. Have failed, learned from the failure, failed again, had to learn again and humbly ask for forgiveness and continue on. Thankfully He is a forgiving Savior who grants grace that is so undeserving and is there to help in all my choices. Easy and hard. Day in and day out.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
weekends
Last weekend's anniversary celebration was chalked full.
It started Friday night with dinner out at a great local eatery with friends and then viewing Nacho Libre which caused side splitting laughing.
Saturday started with breakfast at another great local eatery, a drive to the lakeshore where we ditched the vehicle and hopped on our bikes for a couple hours. We then devoured a light snack while sitting by the bay, changed for dinner, ate way too much at a fanstastic restaurant and ended with flurries by the shore.
We also were surprised by a kite festival that was taking place. Neither of us had seen kites as big as some were. It was extremely windy by the shore and we watched one kite literally drag a man on his stomach across the beach until another man grabbed his legs and was able to stop him.
Sunday was church, mom-in-law taking us out on our official anniversary, a quick nap, video shoot at a car repair and then home to do house/yard work.
Too sum it up, Monday came waaaaaaay too quick.
Another weekend is sneaking up on us and this time will include a trip to the parents homestead where three out of five of us siblings are gathering to help the parents do some landscaping reconstruction (or I should say destruction). Then it will be a trip back home with one day filled with church and dinner with friends and then one day working on the yard.
Whew! I'm ready for a nap!
Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!
It started Friday night with dinner out at a great local eatery with friends and then viewing Nacho Libre which caused side splitting laughing.
Saturday started with breakfast at another great local eatery, a drive to the lakeshore where we ditched the vehicle and hopped on our bikes for a couple hours. We then devoured a light snack while sitting by the bay, changed for dinner, ate way too much at a fanstastic restaurant and ended with flurries by the shore.
We also were surprised by a kite festival that was taking place. Neither of us had seen kites as big as some were. It was extremely windy by the shore and we watched one kite literally drag a man on his stomach across the beach until another man grabbed his legs and was able to stop him. Sunday was church, mom-in-law taking us out on our official anniversary, a quick nap, video shoot at a car repair and then home to do house/yard work.
Too sum it up, Monday came waaaaaaay too quick.
Another weekend is sneaking up on us and this time will include a trip to the parents homestead where three out of five of us siblings are gathering to help the parents do some landscaping reconstruction (or I should say destruction). Then it will be a trip back home with one day filled with church and dinner with friends and then one day working on the yard.
Whew! I'm ready for a nap!
Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!
Saturday, May 19, 2007
closed
The Eatery will be closed for business this weekend due to a celebration.
12 years ago tomorrow a wedding took place bringing together two, much younger, people. Since then, there has been four moves, two kids, 5 vehicles, vacations, highs, lows, memories and a growing friendship like no other.
I am so very thankful for the man I married.
Today we celebrate.
A day away.
I love you Ed, for our life together and for many more years to come.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Tonight's feature
Tonight at The Eatery, there was a shortage of ketchup. So instead of going out and buying a bottle, I figured it couldn't be that hard to make it from scratch. With little time left before the homemade fries were done, a quick making recipe was located with all ingredients found in the old mother cupboard.
The survey (two restaurant regulars under six and one over 35) said thumbs sideways to down. The chef agreed.
Too sweet.
The hands are itching to experiment again and the kitchen is rearing to go.
The next recipe has been found.
Will it be too salty?
Or just right?
Results to come.
The survey (two restaurant regulars under six and one over 35) said thumbs sideways to down. The chef agreed.
Too sweet.
The hands are itching to experiment again and the kitchen is rearing to go.
The next recipe has been found.
Will it be too salty?
Or just right?
Results to come.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
The Eatery
The Eatery. Now open.
Main course: Homemade chicken and brown rice soup chalked full of yummy veggies.
Salad: Organic mix of spring greens, topped with rippened red strawberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, perfect pecans and dressing of choice.
Dessert: Small bowl of non homemade icecream. :)
Main course: Homemade chicken and brown rice soup chalked full of yummy veggies.
Salad: Organic mix of spring greens, topped with rippened red strawberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, perfect pecans and dressing of choice.
Dessert: Small bowl of non homemade icecream. :)
Monday, May 14, 2007
randomness
I find it rather odd that my computer says it is 84 degrees outside yet here I sit with a short sleeve shirt on, a long sleeve sweater, long pants and a pair of socks. And the air conditioning is not on. Can't complain about that!!
Princess has a long sleeve/pant jumpsuit on sitting next to me making snakes and bread out of the play dough (and I was informed that the snakes do go in the bread so the snakes can say "sssssss"). Will be some fantastic bread!
We received yet another gift in the mail on Saturday in which we are able
to use for our anniversary this weekend. Humbled and awed again by
God's blessings being showered upon us during this season of our lives.
Living the message that our pastor spoke about yesterday. Choosing to
be content with what we have. Choosing to not go away for a weekend and
being blessed in a totally different way where we are now able to "get
away" for a bit.
During my morning study, God made me aware of some issues going on in my heart. Issues I was completely unaware of until the brick hit me between the eyes. A wake up call, if you may. Now learning to fully accept Christ's forgiveness on these matters even when I feel like I don't deserve it. Learning about His grace and mercy
all over again.
Princess has a long sleeve/pant jumpsuit on sitting next to me making snakes and bread out of the play dough (and I was informed that the snakes do go in the bread so the snakes can say "sssssss"). Will be some fantastic bread!
We received yet another gift in the mail on Saturday in which we are able
to use for our anniversary this weekend. Humbled and awed again by
God's blessings being showered upon us during this season of our lives.
Living the message that our pastor spoke about yesterday. Choosing to
be content with what we have. Choosing to not go away for a weekend and
being blessed in a totally different way where we are now able to "get
away" for a bit.
During my morning study, God made me aware of some issues going on in my heart. Issues I was completely unaware of until the brick hit me between the eyes. A wake up call, if you may. Now learning to fully accept Christ's forgiveness on these matters even when I feel like I don't deserve it. Learning about His grace and mercy
all over again.
Friday, May 11, 2007
recap
Monday: Finding out that clamp on biking shoes are a lot harder to get used to than what was previously thought. Learning that the brain is one tricky instrument in how it interacts with the rest of the body. Your eyes SEE that the right foot is FREE from it's restraint. The brain says, "HELOOL!!! Your right foot is FREE, lean to the right!" and yet the body says, "Must get off on the left. Must get off on the left. Must get off on the left." in which case, the left foot is NOT free and the driveway comes rushing up very quickly to meet you, still connected to your bike. Then finding out that the grass is softer than the driveway, not by much though, and that the bike is still just as hard when it sandwiches you between itself and the ground.
Tuesday: Receiving a "need you to come and pick us up" call while on a walk with the princess. Two roaring trains of thought were: broken bones or blood. Blood was the winner. A chin full of skin is implanted on the pavement in the neighborhood behind us, left by an adventerous, thrill-seeking, bike-riding six year old.
Wednesday: Learning once again to be patient with what the future holds for our family. Waiting is a word that is becoming cemented in our brains.
Thursday: Finding a 2nd humbling blessing in the mail that still leaves us speachless. Meeting someone new. Staying out until 11:30 and not realizing it.
Friday: A bright, warm sunny day of playing baseball in the driveway, enjoying strawberries and baking.
Saturday: A party for a good friend and her little baby.
Sunday: Time to reflect on the week, worship with a multitude of others and celebrate two women in our lives who have given so much of themselves.
Tuesday: Receiving a "need you to come and pick us up" call while on a walk with the princess. Two roaring trains of thought were: broken bones or blood. Blood was the winner. A chin full of skin is implanted on the pavement in the neighborhood behind us, left by an adventerous, thrill-seeking, bike-riding six year old.
Wednesday: Learning once again to be patient with what the future holds for our family. Waiting is a word that is becoming cemented in our brains.
Thursday: Finding a 2nd humbling blessing in the mail that still leaves us speachless. Meeting someone new. Staying out until 11:30 and not realizing it.
Friday: A bright, warm sunny day of playing baseball in the driveway, enjoying strawberries and baking.
Saturday: A party for a good friend and her little baby.
Sunday: Time to reflect on the week, worship with a multitude of others and celebrate two women in our lives who have given so much of themselves.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
cleaning
With the warmer weather here, we have been sorting through what to get rid of in our home. I have found a swap place on-line for the city I live in. It's like an on-line garage sale. My list is growing. Bike, dresser, furniture covers, bunk bed, and I'm sure the more I dig, the more can be sold.
It amazes me how much "stuff" we have. How fortunate and blessed we are for the home we have, for the items in it. I was once again reminded Monday night of how nothing is mine. I'm just the caretaker for the things loaned to me. It was the kick in the rear end I needed. Not just take better care of material things, but my husband, my kids, my body.
So as spring cleaning takes place in our home, it's also a time for me to spring clean my soul and try to get rid of the excess "stuff". To take better care of what has been given on loan to me, but to take better care of myself too.
It amazes me how much "stuff" we have. How fortunate and blessed we are for the home we have, for the items in it. I was once again reminded Monday night of how nothing is mine. I'm just the caretaker for the things loaned to me. It was the kick in the rear end I needed. Not just take better care of material things, but my husband, my kids, my body.
So as spring cleaning takes place in our home, it's also a time for me to spring clean my soul and try to get rid of the excess "stuff". To take better care of what has been given on loan to me, but to take better care of myself too.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
hopeful
I think it's here to stay. Days with no coats, boots, snowpants, hats, gloves, or mittens.
Sunshine.
Flowers!
Seeing the earth wake up from it's very long drousy hibernation.
Spring Peepers.
Colors.
To have it arrive is a sweet fragrance.
Renewal.
Newness.
A new season.
Here to stay.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
doozy of an outcome
Sam's 6th year has started out with a big bang, including the twirling stars.
Yesterday was the yearly checkups for both kids.
Healthy as horses. Good to know.
Last night, Sam was playing baseball with a friend and was hit smack dab in the forehead. On top of that, he tried to hit the ball and ended up hitting himself with the bat right where the ball hit. Drop, stop and roll took place. Well....more like drop, stop and scream.
This morning he woke up needing to throw up and had a 102+ temp. He went back to sleep on the couch until 1:00.
My mind started whirling with concusses thoughts.
Ended up back at the doctor this afternoon.
Diagnosis?
Strep throat.
Who knew? I told my friend that it was probably a blessing that her son hit
Sam with the ball since that was the main reason I took him to the doctor. Otherwise it could have been days before we went, which would've not had a nice sunny outcome.
15 seconds after the medicine was ingested, he was feeling much better. Stomach groans stopped. Then I strongly suggested the two of them watch tv as the wrestling ensued and a 2nd child with strep around here is something that can be done without.
I'm ready for a nap!
Yesterday was the yearly checkups for both kids.
Healthy as horses. Good to know.
Last night, Sam was playing baseball with a friend and was hit smack dab in the forehead. On top of that, he tried to hit the ball and ended up hitting himself with the bat right where the ball hit. Drop, stop and roll took place. Well....more like drop, stop and scream.
This morning he woke up needing to throw up and had a 102+ temp. He went back to sleep on the couch until 1:00.
My mind started whirling with concusses thoughts.
Ended up back at the doctor this afternoon.
Diagnosis?
Strep throat.
Who knew? I told my friend that it was probably a blessing that her son hit
Sam with the ball since that was the main reason I took him to the doctor. Otherwise it could have been days before we went, which would've not had a nice sunny outcome.
15 seconds after the medicine was ingested, he was feeling much better. Stomach groans stopped. Then I strongly suggested the two of them watch tv as the wrestling ensued and a 2nd child with strep around here is something that can be done without.
I'm ready for a nap!
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
The big 6 in 07
Another year has flown swiftly by in Sam's life. Hard to believe a year ago he was in preschool. Now he's learning to read, sound out words, write sentences, add,subtract, and trying to bravely learn to ride his bike without training wheels. He still loves any sport, wrestling, riding bikes with dad, but has added I Spy, being in charge of making mac and cheese, computer games from the library, space, ocean life, and checking the weather every day to his list of favorites.
So to go with his favorites, he wanted a basketball cake, received his very own biking gloves, an apron and an I spy book. Along with a gift certificate for painting his room (in which he chose blue, white and orange: Denver Bronco colors), NFL blanket and sheets with all the teams helmets on it to go on his new bed.
It was a very happy birthday and he had a huge blast!! Playing with his favorite tall
friend, trying out his biking gloves and breaking in the new apron as he made his favorite breakfast the next day. Scrambled eggs. The breakfast of 6 year old champions!
So to go with his favorites, he wanted a basketball cake, received his very own biking gloves, an apron and an I spy book. Along with a gift certificate for painting his room (in which he chose blue, white and orange: Denver Bronco colors), NFL blanket and sheets with all the teams helmets on it to go on his new bed.
It was a very happy birthday and he had a huge blast!! Playing with his favorite tallfriend, trying out his biking gloves and breaking in the new apron as he made his favorite breakfast the next day. Scrambled eggs. The breakfast of 6 year old champions!
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
4 out of 4
The other three have already posted about our Chicago trip, so you can go to their blogs and read their hilarious thoughts about our trip.
I thought I would let your eyes feast on some phrases and experiences that were seen, heard and said throughout the weekend.
"You like Deeeelilah?" from neurotic, crazy cabbie driver at 11:00 on a Friday night.
"Ohhhh monkey! Don't eat that screw!!" Sarah
The two step (or a variation that was learned) being done waiting for the L and walking down the street by Hillary.
$3 lunch at Higgins Tavern.
"That's a lot of fried food on one plate." Said by each of us at one time or another sitting at Giordano's pizza.
"She's bound and determined to get a picture of a seal isn't she?"
"My picture is better than yours!!" :)
"Flip, toss, toss, toss." Glinda from Wicked.
To sum it all up, the time went waaaaay too fast, was so much fun, couldn't have been more natural meeting two lovely ladies for the first time in person and we're ready to do it all again. Very soon!
I thought I would let your eyes feast on some phrases and experiences that were seen, heard and said throughout the weekend.
"You like Deeeelilah?" from neurotic, crazy cabbie driver at 11:00 on a Friday night.
"Ohhhh monkey! Don't eat that screw!!" Sarah
The two step (or a variation that was learned) being done waiting for the L and walking down the street by Hillary.
$3 lunch at Higgins Tavern.
"That's a lot of fried food on one plate." Said by each of us at one time or another sitting at Giordano's pizza.
"She's bound and determined to get a picture of a seal isn't she?"
"My picture is better than yours!!" :)
"Flip, toss, toss, toss." Glinda from Wicked.
To sum it all up, the time went waaaaay too fast, was so much fun, couldn't have been more natural meeting two lovely ladies for the first time in person and we're ready to do it all again. Very soon!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
FINALLY!!!!!!!!
It's finally here!!!! In less than 14 hours the train will be pulling away from the station.
Where am I going? Why to Chicago!!!
Who am I going with? Anne, Hillary and Sarah!!
What are we going to do? Eat food, talk for hours, see Wicked, and who knows what else!
Why you ask? Why NOT!?!
Sarah suggested writing what our pre-impressions are of each other as we have not met face to face. So here are mine:
Anne:
I have the privilege of knowing Anne in every day life. She is a fun, sensitive, loving woman who lives her passions, has a rock solid marriage and really is married to a rock star. She has creative juices running through her blood, is always on the lookout for a good book, finds solace on the hammock with a kitty in the sun. She's a good Voice. :)
Hillary:
A grade 5 teacher in Canada. She is FULL of laughter and life. Her heart is so tender and compassionate to her kids at school and her friends. She loves to dance, hike, camp, and travel across the world on her own. She grabs life by the horns and lives each moment to the fullest. I think her vibrancy and energy is going to easily seep into all of us this weekend.
Sarah:
She has a heart for teenagers (hence why she works in the youth group), loves her cat even when he/she is about to bite her, puts up with the torrents of squirrels, loves to bake, likes football (that's a guess from one of your posts Sarah), has a blast with her friends, is close with her family and laughs. A lot.
We all have been looking forward to this weekend for what seems like months. I have to say though that my mother and mother in law have been asking all sorts of questions about "the others" who I am meeting. I can understand their concern,
but I have no qualms about this weekend what so ever. More excitement at meeting people I know in person!!
Which leads to realizing that I need to do laundry and pack still.
Looking forward to seeing you ladies tomorrow!!!! ;)
Where am I going? Why to Chicago!!!
Who am I going with? Anne, Hillary and Sarah!!
What are we going to do? Eat food, talk for hours, see Wicked, and who knows what else!
Why you ask? Why NOT!?!
Sarah suggested writing what our pre-impressions are of each other as we have not met face to face. So here are mine:
Anne:
I have the privilege of knowing Anne in every day life. She is a fun, sensitive, loving woman who lives her passions, has a rock solid marriage and really is married to a rock star. She has creative juices running through her blood, is always on the lookout for a good book, finds solace on the hammock with a kitty in the sun. She's a good Voice. :)
Hillary:
A grade 5 teacher in Canada. She is FULL of laughter and life. Her heart is so tender and compassionate to her kids at school and her friends. She loves to dance, hike, camp, and travel across the world on her own. She grabs life by the horns and lives each moment to the fullest. I think her vibrancy and energy is going to easily seep into all of us this weekend.
Sarah:
She has a heart for teenagers (hence why she works in the youth group), loves her cat even when he/she is about to bite her, puts up with the torrents of squirrels, loves to bake, likes football (that's a guess from one of your posts Sarah), has a blast with her friends, is close with her family and laughs. A lot.
We all have been looking forward to this weekend for what seems like months. I have to say though that my mother and mother in law have been asking all sorts of questions about "the others" who I am meeting. I can understand their concern,
but I have no qualms about this weekend what so ever. More excitement at meeting people I know in person!!
Which leads to realizing that I need to do laundry and pack still.
Looking forward to seeing you ladies tomorrow!!!! ;)
Saturday, March 17, 2007
A new memory
Earlier this week, I was reading through the Advance paper, that is
placed in our mailbox on Wednesdays, and my eye caught a picture of our
city's symphony. It brought back memories when Ed and I were dating,
and he would take me to hear the symphony. The music stirs me. To the
point of tears. It soothes me and I feel like I am being bathed in
solitude and quietness. I could sit for hours with my eyes closed
basking in the crescendo's, let the feel of the soul of the music glide
right over me. To hear notes on a page come alive to the point of being
able to see the journey you are being taken on. So, all that to say
that I love listening to a live symphony.
I was able to feel all of this today. And I was able to take it a step further by exposing our children to it. The article in the paper above was about the symphony performing a Lollipop concert. I read on curious as to what this was about. The reading of Zin, Zin, Zin A Violin by Lloyd Moss was going to be acted/played by the symphony. Our son was given this book by one of our friends who is a band teacher in IL and it has become one of the favorites in our home to be read.
With Ed in the UP this weekend, I decided that this would be a perfect opportunity to get out of the house, learn something new and have fun doing it, experiencing one of the things I enjoy, and doing all of this with our kids.
To sum it up, it was enjoyed by all three of us. We were able to talk about the different types of instruments, how the music made us feel during different points in the concert, and learned to see with our ears the book being read.
It was a great way to start the weekend and a memory I will carry with me forever.
placed in our mailbox on Wednesdays, and my eye caught a picture of our
city's symphony. It brought back memories when Ed and I were dating,
and he would take me to hear the symphony. The music stirs me. To the
point of tears. It soothes me and I feel like I am being bathed in
solitude and quietness. I could sit for hours with my eyes closed
basking in the crescendo's, let the feel of the soul of the music glide
right over me. To hear notes on a page come alive to the point of being
able to see the journey you are being taken on. So, all that to say
that I love listening to a live symphony.
I was able to feel all of this today. And I was able to take it a step further by exposing our children to it. The article in the paper above was about the symphony performing a Lollipop concert. I read on curious as to what this was about. The reading of Zin, Zin, Zin A Violin by Lloyd Moss was going to be acted/played by the symphony. Our son was given this book by one of our friends who is a band teacher in IL and it has become one of the favorites in our home to be read. With Ed in the UP this weekend, I decided that this would be a perfect opportunity to get out of the house, learn something new and have fun doing it, experiencing one of the things I enjoy, and doing all of this with our kids.
To sum it up, it was enjoyed by all three of us. We were able to talk about the different types of instruments, how the music made us feel during different points in the concert, and learned to see with our ears the book being read.
It was a great way to start the weekend and a memory I will carry with me forever.
Friday, March 16, 2007
kiss me*, i'm Irish
With St. Patrick's Day tomorrow, my Irish heritage shines extra bright. Not green mind you, but a nice hue of orange.
Admiration and awe mingle when I think of my dad, at the young age of 21,
venturing on a ship from N. Ireland to come to America with his friend.
Hearing stories of my grandfather, whom I never met, working as a milk man. Of my great grandfather being a lamp lighter. Of my father as a bread delivery man forBrusters Bread. Having explored with my husband the land I am a part of, and learned more of my ancestry by walking, hearing, tasting Irish culture. Being able to pass on this heritage to our children.
And the food. Penguins (not live ones mind you...), dulce, crisps, shortbread, snowballs, fish and chips smothered in gravy, orangina, biscuits, flake bars, Quality Street candy, the potatoes my Aunt Jennifer makes, Cadbury, tea sandwiches, scones, HP sauce.
Learning how to say "cow" with the correct intonation based on what county my relatives live in. Smiling every time Michigan is said (more likeMitchigan instead of Mishigan). Hearing the wee ones talk in the Irish cadence that makes my words seem so flat.
Oh to go back. To glimpse the ocean in Port Stewart. To see the boat yards
in Belfast. To smell the sea side. To hear the various lilts of voices.
To sit and chat with cousins, aunts and uncles.
Being able to say I am an Irish lass and am very proud of who I am.
I just may have to put the dual citizenship to use....
*Ed only please. :)
Admiration and awe mingle when I think of my dad, at the young age of 21,
venturing on a ship from N. Ireland to come to America with his friend.
Hearing stories of my grandfather, whom I never met, working as a milk man. Of my great grandfather being a lamp lighter. Of my father as a bread delivery man forBrusters Bread. Having explored with my husband the land I am a part of, and learned more of my ancestry by walking, hearing, tasting Irish culture. Being able to pass on this heritage to our children.
And the food. Penguins (not live ones mind you...), dulce, crisps, shortbread, snowballs, fish and chips smothered in gravy, orangina, biscuits, flake bars, Quality Street candy, the potatoes my Aunt Jennifer makes, Cadbury, tea sandwiches, scones, HP sauce.
Learning how to say "cow" with the correct intonation based on what county my relatives live in. Smiling every time Michigan is said (more likeMitchigan instead of Mishigan). Hearing the wee ones talk in the Irish cadence that makes my words seem so flat.
Oh to go back. To glimpse the ocean in Port Stewart. To see the boat yards
in Belfast. To smell the sea side. To hear the various lilts of voices.
To sit and chat with cousins, aunts and uncles.
Being able to say I am an Irish lass and am very proud of who I am.
I just may have to put the dual citizenship to use....
*Ed only please. :)
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
odd day
Today the weather dock on my computer says it is 71 out.
I am wearing a pair of capris.
I did not wear a coat outside.
My exercise for the day was shoveling snow.
I'm sure stranger things have happened, but to me, this seems pretty strange.
The kids are down in the valley playing in the pool (up to their knees) of melted snow. The snowpants can be washed. They can take showers. The snowpants can be washed. They can take showers. Breath in. Breath out. I. Can. Handle. This.
I am wearing a pair of capris.
I did not wear a coat outside.
My exercise for the day was shoveling snow.
I'm sure stranger things have happened, but to me, this seems pretty strange.
The kids are down in the valley playing in the pool (up to their knees) of melted snow. The snowpants can be washed. They can take showers. The snowpants can be washed. They can take showers. Breath in. Breath out. I. Can. Handle. This.
Friday, March 09, 2007
sense alert
I noticed some colors today while out and about that I haven't seen for
a very long time. Not really THAT long, but when all you see is white
every day for three months straight, a speck of color is noticed.
Green:
Grass. Actual, living grass. An oxymoron if I say so myself. Green grass nestled right up against the white snow.
Black:
To some, this is a very bleak color. But to me, seeing the black of the
driveway brings excitement for more outside play. The bikes can be
removed from the hangers. The scooter and assorted toys will once again
flood the garage and be in full use.
Red-Orange:
Now this color was the most exciting of all. I thought my eyes were deceiving
me. A quick detour in the vehicle proved me wrong when I saw the
movement of this color proudly displayed on the breast of a robin.
It's almost here. You could actually smell it today. Feel it in the clear,
warm air. A taste of what is to come. Almost. So close. Just out of
reach.
Spring.
a very long time. Not really THAT long, but when all you see is white
every day for three months straight, a speck of color is noticed.
Green:
Grass. Actual, living grass. An oxymoron if I say so myself. Green grass nestled right up against the white snow.
Black:
To some, this is a very bleak color. But to me, seeing the black of the
driveway brings excitement for more outside play. The bikes can be
removed from the hangers. The scooter and assorted toys will once again
flood the garage and be in full use.
Red-Orange:
Now this color was the most exciting of all. I thought my eyes were deceiving
me. A quick detour in the vehicle proved me wrong when I saw the
movement of this color proudly displayed on the breast of a robin.
It's almost here. You could actually smell it today. Feel it in the clear,
warm air. A taste of what is to come. Almost. So close. Just out of
reach.
Spring.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
A pretty pink day
Today was a pretty big pink day in our home. Hello Kitty came to visit in several different ways, celebrating our princess' 3rd brithday.
Pink Hello Kitty sheets for her new big girl bed (that used to be her mommy's).
Hello Kitty pillow.
Hello Kitty cake.
Strawberry Shortcake was also added in as the princess asked for a Shortcake apron. Thankfully after 3 stores, Shortcake was spotted. Purchased. Sewn just in time. And to compliment the apron, Grandma's gifts were kid's cookbooks which we can't wait to try out!
The day ended with hand dipping in the frosting (that wasn't covered yet) and reading of her new Curious George Visits the Chocolate Factory book given by her big special friends. :)
Pink Hello Kitty sheets for her new big girl bed (that used to be her mommy's).
Hello Kitty pillow.
Hello Kitty cake.
Strawberry Shortcake was also added in as the princess asked for a Shortcake apron. Thankfully after 3 stores, Shortcake was spotted. Purchased. Sewn just in time. And to compliment the apron, Grandma's gifts were kid's cookbooks which we can't wait to try out!
The day ended with hand dipping in the frosting (that wasn't covered yet) and reading of her new Curious George Visits the Chocolate Factory book given by her big special friends. :)
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
sleepy head
The yucky bug germs have been transferred from one child to the other.
The princess and I were playing hide and seek and she hid under her blanket
in her room. I gave her a few minutes as she loves to "hide".
I went up to her room and she was fast asleep.
Without her dolly.
Snoring.
It was 6:20.
I noticed goopy stuff in her eye. Just like her brother had last week. I really shouldn't be surprised.
The sad thing is that her birthday is a few days away and now she gets to be sick on her special day.
The fun curves life has in it!
The princess and I were playing hide and seek and she hid under her blanket
in her room. I gave her a few minutes as she loves to "hide".
I went up to her room and she was fast asleep.
Without her dolly.
Snoring.
It was 6:20.
I noticed goopy stuff in her eye. Just like her brother had last week. I really shouldn't be surprised.
The sad thing is that her birthday is a few days away and now she gets to be sick on her special day.
The fun curves life has in it!
Thursday, February 22, 2007
today
Today has been a bit of a long day.
Downs:
1. Awake with sick son at 3:45 this morning.
2. Could not ease the searing pain in his ear.
3. Knowing antibiotics were going to be needed. This equals $$.
4. Finding out he had an ear infection in the other ear too.
5. It looks like a truck has run over him with dark circles under his blood shot eyes.
Ups:
1. Able to go back to sleep around 5:30.
2. Husband came in and soothed son to sleep in a matter of seconds. He IS super dad.
3. Antiobiotics were FREE at the store.
4. He has a very high pain tolerance (though this could be a down if he breaks a bone and never tells us).
5. All sickness came at once. Two ear infections, colds (or pink eye...no one knows) in both eyes, sore throat and upset stomach.
6. He did not miss one minute of school with it being winter break.
I'm ready for bed.
Downs:
1. Awake with sick son at 3:45 this morning.
2. Could not ease the searing pain in his ear.
3. Knowing antibiotics were going to be needed. This equals $$.
4. Finding out he had an ear infection in the other ear too.
5. It looks like a truck has run over him with dark circles under his blood shot eyes.
Ups:
1. Able to go back to sleep around 5:30.
2. Husband came in and soothed son to sleep in a matter of seconds. He IS super dad.
3. Antiobiotics were FREE at the store.
4. He has a very high pain tolerance (though this could be a down if he breaks a bone and never tells us).
5. All sickness came at once. Two ear infections, colds (or pink eye...no one knows) in both eyes, sore throat and upset stomach.
6. He did not miss one minute of school with it being winter break.
I'm ready for bed.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
snipits of the day
#1:
Sam: Mom, I had a dream last night.
Me: Really? Do you remember what it was about?
Sam: No. But you were in it.
Me: Interesting. Was I doing anything?
Sam: I don't know. Don't you remember?
Me: Don't I remember what?
Sam: Don't you remember being there?
Me: In your dream?
Sam: Yeah. You were in my dream. Don't you remember?
Me: Um...no. I don't.
Sam: oh. well..maybe next time you'll remember.
#2: 4:30 a.m.
Alina (in her bed): MOMMMYYYY??!??
Me (in my bed): Yes Alina?
Alina: I wanted you to play with me.
Me: I will when the sun comes up.
Alina: But I wanted you to play with me!
Me: Wait until the sun comes up.
Alina: silence.
Alina: Mommy???
Me: yes Alina
Alina: Where's the books?
Me: In your room.
Alina: But I want you to read them.
Me: When the sun comes up.
Alina: silence.
Ahhh...the joys of having a child that talks in her sleep and can actually carry on a conversation.
Sam: Mom, I had a dream last night.
Me: Really? Do you remember what it was about?
Sam: No. But you were in it.
Me: Interesting. Was I doing anything?
Sam: I don't know. Don't you remember?
Me: Don't I remember what?
Sam: Don't you remember being there?
Me: In your dream?
Sam: Yeah. You were in my dream. Don't you remember?
Me: Um...no. I don't.
Sam: oh. well..maybe next time you'll remember.
#2: 4:30 a.m.
Alina (in her bed): MOMMMYYYY??!??
Me (in my bed): Yes Alina?
Alina: I wanted you to play with me.
Me: I will when the sun comes up.
Alina: But I wanted you to play with me!
Me: Wait until the sun comes up.
Alina: silence.
Alina: Mommy???
Me: yes Alina
Alina: Where's the books?
Me: In your room.
Alina: But I want you to read them.
Me: When the sun comes up.
Alina: silence.
Ahhh...the joys of having a child that talks in her sleep and can actually carry on a conversation.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
solved
Tonight at 5:30, my niece knocked on the door and came in.
This part of the mystery I knew. The kids were so excited that she was babysitting. I was excited too. To be out for a few hours with my handsome husband.
I called Ed to let him know I was all ready and he directed me to his office book case (in our home), 4th row up, all the way to the left, green notebook, front page.
There was a map with directions of where I was to meet him.
We ended up meeting at a Japanese/Chinese restaurant where we have dined before, but always on the Chinese side.
Tonight we experienced the hibachi side. It was fabulous. We were immediately warmed up from being so close to the flames. I think I may have even acquired a sun tan.
Soup, salad, shrimp appetizer (those brave enough had the opportunity to catch a flying shrimp, by mouth, from the chef), filet mignon, fresh veggies and rice.
So very tasty and I was fascinated with the chef and what a treat to watch our food being cooked right in front of us (plus the fancy knife and spatula throwing, egg tossing/catching with the spatula and not breaking, and the volcano onion...yes....just like the Office episode...Ed and I had a good chuckle over that).
After dinner we went to a different restaurant for dessert and non-stop conversation.
Home early due to roads as my niece had to be taken back home.
It was a great evening.
It was a great birthday. :)
This part of the mystery I knew. The kids were so excited that she was babysitting. I was excited too. To be out for a few hours with my handsome husband.
I called Ed to let him know I was all ready and he directed me to his office book case (in our home), 4th row up, all the way to the left, green notebook, front page.
There was a map with directions of where I was to meet him.
We ended up meeting at a Japanese/Chinese restaurant where we have dined before, but always on the Chinese side.
Tonight we experienced the hibachi side. It was fabulous. We were immediately warmed up from being so close to the flames. I think I may have even acquired a sun tan.
Soup, salad, shrimp appetizer (those brave enough had the opportunity to catch a flying shrimp, by mouth, from the chef), filet mignon, fresh veggies and rice.
So very tasty and I was fascinated with the chef and what a treat to watch our food being cooked right in front of us (plus the fancy knife and spatula throwing, egg tossing/catching with the spatula and not breaking, and the volcano onion...yes....just like the Office episode...Ed and I had a good chuckle over that).
After dinner we went to a different restaurant for dessert and non-stop conversation.
Home early due to roads as my niece had to be taken back home.
It was a great evening.
It was a great birthday. :)
the mystery
I found this slip of paper on my computer this morning."Someone will arrive at 5:30 pm to watch Sam and Alina.
Please be dressed (no jeans) by then for our evening.
After you have briefed the sitter, please call me for further instructions."
Oh the suspense!
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
silverware
There are now choices on the horizon.
A horizon that dawned rather quickly.
The waiting game seems to have fallen to the back of the line.
For now.
Decisions have taken the lead.
Decisions that include several forks in the road.
One fork leads to another.
No matter which prong is chosen.
Who knew there could be so many forks.
A horizon that dawned rather quickly.
The waiting game seems to have fallen to the back of the line.
For now.
Decisions have taken the lead.
Decisions that include several forks in the road.
One fork leads to another.
No matter which prong is chosen.
Who knew there could be so many forks.
Monday, February 05, 2007
a hearty evening
With the weather the way it has been and the Super Bowl last night, a good hearty dish was being called for. Ed's taste buds were sending messages to his brain that had to do with white chili. I was up to the challenge.
The search started. Scouring over recipes looking for the one. I thought
I had found it. This white chili was what I ended up making. It was OK. Too many beans, too little chicken for my taste (these two white items were what caused this chili to be considered acceptable in the "white" category). So the rest is in the freezer for another day whenst I may add some extra chicken.
What better to go with chili than corn bread. Again, the scouring ensued. And
again, I thought I had found the recipe. My palate was anticipating what I thought was going to be some mouth watering corn bread. Perfect consistency and taste. I was sorely disappointed. Too bland. Not sweet enough and too gritty. But I did enjoy trying out one of Ed's dad's iron skillets and baking the bread in the oven. It did turn out very good, but just wasn't the taste I was looking for. So now I am on the lookout for a good cornbread recipe. One that is 3/4 good for you, possibly 4/4 good for you. :)
It was a good day, all snuggled inside with our family and watching a sport (with commercials that were so/so this year) that I have come to enjoy (with many years of Ed's patience in teaching me about all the rules. Especially moving the chains. That took a loooong time to teach this volleyball/cheerleader high school gal who knew nothing of the sport.) The company sure made up for the so-so food.
The search started. Scouring over recipes looking for the one. I thought
I had found it. This white chili was what I ended up making. It was OK. Too many beans, too little chicken for my taste (these two white items were what caused this chili to be considered acceptable in the "white" category). So the rest is in the freezer for another day whenst I may add some extra chicken.What better to go with chili than corn bread. Again, the scouring ensued. And
again, I thought I had found the recipe. My palate was anticipating what I thought was going to be some mouth watering corn bread. Perfect consistency and taste. I was sorely disappointed. Too bland. Not sweet enough and too gritty. But I did enjoy trying out one of Ed's dad's iron skillets and baking the bread in the oven. It did turn out very good, but just wasn't the taste I was looking for. So now I am on the lookout for a good cornbread recipe. One that is 3/4 good for you, possibly 4/4 good for you. :)It was a good day, all snuggled inside with our family and watching a sport (with commercials that were so/so this year) that I have come to enjoy (with many years of Ed's patience in teaching me about all the rules. Especially moving the chains. That took a loooong time to teach this volleyball/cheerleader high school gal who knew nothing of the sport.) The company sure made up for the so-so food.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
current news
1. There is a blizzard warning until midnight tonight.
2. The highway is closed in 3 areas between our home and where my husband is at a retreat (of which he is supposed to come home today).
3. I have a nice big candle burning to give off a nice piney scent.
4. We are toasty and all snuggled in despite the blowing craziness outside.
5. All three of us are still in our jammies.
2. The highway is closed in 3 areas between our home and where my husband is at a retreat (of which he is supposed to come home today).
3. I have a nice big candle burning to give off a nice piney scent.
4. We are toasty and all snuggled in despite the blowing craziness outside.
5. All three of us are still in our jammies.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
not there yet
I'm finding that I am not a patient person when it comes to waiting. Not waiting in line, or waiting for the water to boil, but waiting for answers. Waiting for opportunities. Waiting for the change that we've been anticipating over such a stretch of time. Today brought an answer that is going to bring forth more waiting. The answer was not one that was expected or well liked. Honestly, I did not appreciate the answer one bit. But that is something that I, personally, need to weed through. So we wait. Again. Different roads are coming up and we wait to see which will be traversed. I am not handling this well and really prefer to just ignore it, but it's right in my face day in and day out, so it can not be brushed under the rug. I hope on the other side I can look back and say that I learned from this waiting period. That I grew. That I did not become bitter or harbor ill thoughts. I hope the same for my husband. That when we do reach a pit stop, receive an answer, come to the oasis in the trying desert journey, that we will be able to look across from where we journeyed and see how we were given enough water along the way to make it one more day. And realize that the wait was absolutely worth it.
Friday, January 26, 2007
flying by
Another week has flown by without really realizing it.
This weekend is filled up with Sunday being resting day.
Today is soup/salad pot luck at work in which I have 30 minutes to make two white chocolate double mint chip pie's for Ed's birthday treat.
Tonight's event is a post Christmas music party for all people on the music teams at church.
Tomorrow is Ed's b-day filled with surprises, and in case he reads this post, I won't be spilling the beans about what is going to be happening. Though he knows something is up as I bought plastic forks.
Tomorrow is also my eldest niece's birthday. She will be turning 17. She was born when I was 15. It still blows my mind how fast time goes. How often I find myself pinning for the days when both kids are in school. Then realize that some day I'll be wishing for the battles I am facing today with my kids. How, when looking back, life was a lot easier. How the saying, "hindsight is 20/20" always seems to be true.
So happy weekend to all. Enjoy each moment of life that you breathe.
This weekend is filled up with Sunday being resting day.
Today is soup/salad pot luck at work in which I have 30 minutes to make two white chocolate double mint chip pie's for Ed's birthday treat.
Tonight's event is a post Christmas music party for all people on the music teams at church.
Tomorrow is Ed's b-day filled with surprises, and in case he reads this post, I won't be spilling the beans about what is going to be happening. Though he knows something is up as I bought plastic forks.
Tomorrow is also my eldest niece's birthday. She will be turning 17. She was born when I was 15. It still blows my mind how fast time goes. How often I find myself pinning for the days when both kids are in school. Then realize that some day I'll be wishing for the battles I am facing today with my kids. How, when looking back, life was a lot easier. How the saying, "hindsight is 20/20" always seems to be true.
So happy weekend to all. Enjoy each moment of life that you breathe.
Monday, January 22, 2007
a smidge too close
Today has been one of those busy days where everything seems to pile on top of each other when nothing was really planned to begin with.
8:30-11:30 work. Typical Monday.
11:30-12:15 lunch, helping child get dressed, school. This is the time of day where I am thankful our son can get dressed by himself. Though I'm sure it's to the point where the teacher wonders if he has any other clothes besides the three outfits that he continually wears. At least they're clean.
12:25-4:12 grocery shopping with the little miss. Quite the helper she was today.
4:12 and 30 seconds. Son off bus. Today was a day I was thankful there was not one cop on Spaulding. Going 60 down a hilly street does funny things to ones stomach. Maybe that's why the speed limit is 35. I gave myself enough time at Meijer to check out. At least I thought it was enough time. I did not have a lot of items, but the cashier would scan one item and look at all the rest to see if there was something way at the end he could put in a bag. As anal as I am, I do put all boxed goods together, canned goods, produce, chips/bread last as to not get smushed. It took a total of 10 minutes to check out. With the 40 or so items I had, it took him between 20 and 30 seconds to scan each. So I was flying out of the store at 4:05 and still had to buckle little miss in and load the groceries. It took me 3 minutes to get home. Would've been shorter if I didn't get behind someone actually doing the speed limit. It was way to close of a call. Way too close.
4:15-4:30 putting groceries away.
4:30-5:00 work and catch up with Ed.
5:00-5:30 piano lesson with son.
5:30-7:30 make dinner, Ed home, jammies.
7:30-now read books and sing songs, bed.
8:30-11:30 work. Typical Monday.
11:30-12:15 lunch, helping child get dressed, school. This is the time of day where I am thankful our son can get dressed by himself. Though I'm sure it's to the point where the teacher wonders if he has any other clothes besides the three outfits that he continually wears. At least they're clean.
12:25-4:12 grocery shopping with the little miss. Quite the helper she was today.
4:12 and 30 seconds. Son off bus. Today was a day I was thankful there was not one cop on Spaulding. Going 60 down a hilly street does funny things to ones stomach. Maybe that's why the speed limit is 35. I gave myself enough time at Meijer to check out. At least I thought it was enough time. I did not have a lot of items, but the cashier would scan one item and look at all the rest to see if there was something way at the end he could put in a bag. As anal as I am, I do put all boxed goods together, canned goods, produce, chips/bread last as to not get smushed. It took a total of 10 minutes to check out. With the 40 or so items I had, it took him between 20 and 30 seconds to scan each. So I was flying out of the store at 4:05 and still had to buckle little miss in and load the groceries. It took me 3 minutes to get home. Would've been shorter if I didn't get behind someone actually doing the speed limit. It was way to close of a call. Way too close.
4:15-4:30 putting groceries away.
4:30-5:00 work and catch up with Ed.
5:00-5:30 piano lesson with son.
5:30-7:30 make dinner, Ed home, jammies.
7:30-now read books and sing songs, bed.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
New arrival
Ed received an instant message from me saying, "oh boy. oh boy. oh boy!!!!!"
My pots and pans came today and that's exactly what he guessed. In my head I was singing "ahhhhh" like when a bright light shines upon someone on tv. The chorus of voices announcing something glorious. Yes. That's what the sound was when I was opening the box.
Jenna said I was allowed to rub my hands all over them. I would have done that too if they weren't so cold! I had to sit on my hands after taking the pots/pans out of the box.
The chicken will be the first victim. Mwaaaahhh haaa haaa (rubbing hands together).
Who knew transitioning from angelic voices to villian laughter in a matter of seconds could happen so quickly!!
My pots and pans came today and that's exactly what he guessed. In my head I was singing "ahhhhh" like when a bright light shines upon someone on tv. The chorus of voices announcing something glorious. Yes. That's what the sound was when I was opening the box.
Jenna said I was allowed to rub my hands all over them. I would have done that too if they weren't so cold! I had to sit on my hands after taking the pots/pans out of the box.
The chicken will be the first victim. Mwaaaahhh haaa haaa (rubbing hands together).
Who knew transitioning from angelic voices to villian laughter in a matter of seconds could happen so quickly!!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
a reminder to myself
I forget how addicting Ebay can be. Those last few seconds before the bidding has ended. The exhilaration of trying to win and the let down when you were beaten by 50 cents. I've been watching and bidding on different sets of pots and pans and have to keep reminding myself not to get out of control. I told Ed last night that I just want to keep bidding and bidding so I actually win, to beat everyone else, but then remember, "oh yeah....I really do have to pay if I win". That it's not just a game to be played.
So, off I go. Back to watch the pots and pans and keep my index finger under control so as not to hit the Confirm Bid button one to many times.
So, off I go. Back to watch the pots and pans and keep my index finger under control so as not to hit the Confirm Bid button one to many times.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
shrinking food supply
It amazes me how one person can eat so much. Two bowls of oatmeal in the morning. Fruit, crackers, cheese, sandwich at lunch. Today's lunch was grilled cheese with yogurt and a sandwich and a half was consumed. Dinner usually consits of two helpings. In between each meal is one snack. When the plate is empty, I hear, "Are you going to eat that? Are you done? Can I have what ever you don't eat? Are you done yet? Can I have that?" Eating all day could very well be happening if I didn't set limits.
The 1st question in the morning, "Mom, what are we having for dinner tonight?"
Pants are getting shorter. Shirt sleeves are shrinking. Major growing is going on.
I told Ed today, I can't imagine what it's going to be like when he's a teenager and goes through a growth spurt. Let alone when he turns 6. Ed's reply, "I'll need to go donate plasma just to feed him."
The 1st question in the morning, "Mom, what are we having for dinner tonight?"
Pants are getting shorter. Shirt sleeves are shrinking. Major growing is going on.
I told Ed today, I can't imagine what it's going to be like when he's a teenager and goes through a growth spurt. Let alone when he turns 6. Ed's reply, "I'll need to go donate plasma just to feed him."
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Questions for the day
Does taking down Christmas lights outside count for exercise (up and down the ladder, climbing the tree, walking around the tree so many times you start to get dizzy)?
When a gift is bought for someone with a plethera of other items and a 15% discount is applied to the total bill, when the one gift is returned, should it be allowed for the store to apply the 15% discount to that one gift?
*The above question has been answered and I do understand, now that my ever patient husband explained it to me with visuals (if I can't picture it, there's a slim chance I'll grasp it). In my head it made sense of how I was thinking it wasn't correct for the store to do, but alas, I was in error.
Is it normal for it to be 50 degrees out in January in Michigan? Not that I'm complaining....
What's the best type of pots/pans out there without spending an exorbitant amount of money?
When a gift is bought for someone with a plethera of other items and a 15% discount is applied to the total bill, when the one gift is returned, should it be allowed for the store to apply the 15% discount to that one gift?
*The above question has been answered and I do understand, now that my ever patient husband explained it to me with visuals (if I can't picture it, there's a slim chance I'll grasp it). In my head it made sense of how I was thinking it wasn't correct for the store to do, but alas, I was in error.
Is it normal for it to be 50 degrees out in January in Michigan? Not that I'm complaining....
What's the best type of pots/pans out there without spending an exorbitant amount of money?
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
lost appetite
I have quite easily forgotten how much blood one tiny tooth popping out can produce.
I was reminded of this last night during dinner time eating pizza's no less.
It was the hit of the evening. Especially amongst the boys.
I was reminded of this last night during dinner time eating pizza's no less.
It was the hit of the evening. Especially amongst the boys.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
fresh start
I'm not one to make new year resolutions. I really never have. Maybe one year here, one year there. This year is different. I have just a few things of which I hope to work at in the coming year.
1. Exercise at least three times a week. The Christmas money was pooled and a stepper was bought. It is set up and ready to be used. Along with the work out bench and the videos that have been wiped free of dust.
2. As of the 1st, eating around here is going to change. Slowly, but it will change. With being the grocery shopper and cook of the family, I feel it is my responsibility to feed our family healthily. What better time to start this with a new year right around the corner. With taking better care of myself and our family, eating healthy is half the battle. Exercise is the other.
I could include many more, but when I get too bogged down I then do none, which would defeat the whole purpose of writing this. I will set goals to work at, continue good habits that have already started, and keep at breaking the bad habits that have formed.
I am looking forward to this new year. If it is nothing like the beginning of 2006, I will be more than happy (last year started with vertigo, sinus infection, pink eye in both eyes, another sinus infection, pink eye again and ended with vertigo in March).
So here's to a new year. A time to start fresh with a big gulp of clear air and a lilt to the steps that will be taken over the next 12 months.
1. Exercise at least three times a week. The Christmas money was pooled and a stepper was bought. It is set up and ready to be used. Along with the work out bench and the videos that have been wiped free of dust.
2. As of the 1st, eating around here is going to change. Slowly, but it will change. With being the grocery shopper and cook of the family, I feel it is my responsibility to feed our family healthily. What better time to start this with a new year right around the corner. With taking better care of myself and our family, eating healthy is half the battle. Exercise is the other.
I could include many more, but when I get too bogged down I then do none, which would defeat the whole purpose of writing this. I will set goals to work at, continue good habits that have already started, and keep at breaking the bad habits that have formed.
I am looking forward to this new year. If it is nothing like the beginning of 2006, I will be more than happy (last year started with vertigo, sinus infection, pink eye in both eyes, another sinus infection, pink eye again and ended with vertigo in March).
So here's to a new year. A time to start fresh with a big gulp of clear air and a lilt to the steps that will be taken over the next 12 months.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
observing changes
Every day seems to be blending into another. Once the kids' feet hit the ground the day starts and once their eyes are closed and they are actually sleeping, the day can come to an end and a breath can be taken. What goes on in between those two moments is all a blur. I can't tell one day from the next as they all consist of the same things. Work. Take Sam to school. Go to one store or another. Get home. Get Sam off the bus. Dinner. Bedtime. Do all over again. But that seems to be coming to an end.
Usually I do not look forward to change. I become content in the every day sameness and even the every day struggles seem to look alike. But changes are coming down the pipe. And I look forward to them. I'm ready for a change. Tomorrow starts the first one. Sam is done with school for the next week and a half and I'm looking forward to having him home and have ideas in my head of what we can do over the next days before schools starts again.
It has been hard to find enjoyment in each day when they fly by and seem like a repeat of the day before. I'm sure there are little changes that are happening that I don't even realize. The sun peaking through the clouds. The kids learning something new. Encouraging someone without realizing it. A step towards growth, even when it may be a small step. A stirring in the heart.
So with eyes that now see the way life has been, hopefully they can focus on the little things that can change and bring life instead of the same things that they have observed over the past days and weeks.
Usually I do not look forward to change. I become content in the every day sameness and even the every day struggles seem to look alike. But changes are coming down the pipe. And I look forward to them. I'm ready for a change. Tomorrow starts the first one. Sam is done with school for the next week and a half and I'm looking forward to having him home and have ideas in my head of what we can do over the next days before schools starts again.
It has been hard to find enjoyment in each day when they fly by and seem like a repeat of the day before. I'm sure there are little changes that are happening that I don't even realize. The sun peaking through the clouds. The kids learning something new. Encouraging someone without realizing it. A step towards growth, even when it may be a small step. A stirring in the heart.
So with eyes that now see the way life has been, hopefully they can focus on the little things that can change and bring life instead of the same things that they have observed over the past days and weeks.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
before the fall
I lived out a saying Tuesday night. Pride comes before the fall. And the fall comes fast and hard. Very hard.
Tuesday night was the Orienteering group Agape Feast. A time to come together, worship through singing, reading scripture, eating a Mediterranean meal and taking communion together. The evening was focused on the prophesies of Christ's coming in the Old Testament and then reading in the New Testament of how those prophesies came true through Christ's birth, death and ressurection. It was an amazing, amazing time of reflection, celebration, worship and fellowship.
Ed and I were in charge of bringing a bean dish, dessert, bread and olives. Bread was bought, hummus became the bean dish, canned olives were purchased and baklava and pirouettes were ready to go on the plates.
With being the only one bringing desserts, I wanted to make sure there was enough for everyone, and an assortment in case some people did not enjoy nuts (in the baklava0. So onto the internet I hopped and found some Jewish dessert recipes. Babka (bread with a filling in the middle, rolled up like a jelly roll), apple turnovers and cinnamon twists. Everything was on schedule. Bread was rising, dough was chilling in the refrigerator and the oven and I were ready to tackle all the food. I was excited. Excited to see how everything would turn out. Visions of how the home-made apple turnovers would look, dressed in their drizzled glaze. How the cinnamon twists would be with their sugar coatings on, looking pretty lined up next to each other. How everyone would oooo and ahhhh over the creations and I would feel good that I made something worthy of a large number of people to eat.
Come about 4:30, I started on the turnovers. Apples were peeled, sliced and diced ready to become stuffing. Little did I know that the person who wrote the recipe did not include all ingredients or state at what the turnovers should bake at. My eyes were all stars when I first read it, amazed at how easy it sounded. This should've been a red flag, but nope. I just continued on. Thankfully my mom was home, so many phone calls were made. It helps that she's been a baker for years! :) I ended up making 5 turnovers that turned out to be blobs with big holes on the top. Frustration level started to rise.
Cinnamon twists were rolled out and twisted, on the cookie sheets ready to go after the blobs came out of the oven. Not putting two and two together, the twists were actually cookies, not like taco bell cinnamon twists. So when they were taken off the cookie sheet, they all broke because they were too long and thin.
By the time I left for church, my frustration level was beyond compacity. I was driving with broken cinnamon twists, no apple turn overs and hopes that the babka turned out as it was on a cooling sheet in the back seat.
It wasn't until later, while singing and finally being able to take a deep breath that God revealed to me how prideful I had been. How I had been making all the food for my own glorification instead of just to be enjoyed by others, no matter what it turned out like. It's obvious now that the food didn't turn out for a reason. A reason called a lesson.
It was a hard lesson. A hard lesson learned a hard way with a hard fall. And you know what? Not one person noticed the broken cookies or missed the blob turnovers. The evening was a huge success and my flubbed up desserts did not make or break the evening. They were just used as an instrument to break my pride.
Tuesday night was the Orienteering group Agape Feast. A time to come together, worship through singing, reading scripture, eating a Mediterranean meal and taking communion together. The evening was focused on the prophesies of Christ's coming in the Old Testament and then reading in the New Testament of how those prophesies came true through Christ's birth, death and ressurection. It was an amazing, amazing time of reflection, celebration, worship and fellowship.
Ed and I were in charge of bringing a bean dish, dessert, bread and olives. Bread was bought, hummus became the bean dish, canned olives were purchased and baklava and pirouettes were ready to go on the plates.
With being the only one bringing desserts, I wanted to make sure there was enough for everyone, and an assortment in case some people did not enjoy nuts (in the baklava0. So onto the internet I hopped and found some Jewish dessert recipes. Babka (bread with a filling in the middle, rolled up like a jelly roll), apple turnovers and cinnamon twists. Everything was on schedule. Bread was rising, dough was chilling in the refrigerator and the oven and I were ready to tackle all the food. I was excited. Excited to see how everything would turn out. Visions of how the home-made apple turnovers would look, dressed in their drizzled glaze. How the cinnamon twists would be with their sugar coatings on, looking pretty lined up next to each other. How everyone would oooo and ahhhh over the creations and I would feel good that I made something worthy of a large number of people to eat.
Come about 4:30, I started on the turnovers. Apples were peeled, sliced and diced ready to become stuffing. Little did I know that the person who wrote the recipe did not include all ingredients or state at what the turnovers should bake at. My eyes were all stars when I first read it, amazed at how easy it sounded. This should've been a red flag, but nope. I just continued on. Thankfully my mom was home, so many phone calls were made. It helps that she's been a baker for years! :) I ended up making 5 turnovers that turned out to be blobs with big holes on the top. Frustration level started to rise.
Cinnamon twists were rolled out and twisted, on the cookie sheets ready to go after the blobs came out of the oven. Not putting two and two together, the twists were actually cookies, not like taco bell cinnamon twists. So when they were taken off the cookie sheet, they all broke because they were too long and thin.
By the time I left for church, my frustration level was beyond compacity. I was driving with broken cinnamon twists, no apple turn overs and hopes that the babka turned out as it was on a cooling sheet in the back seat.
It wasn't until later, while singing and finally being able to take a deep breath that God revealed to me how prideful I had been. How I had been making all the food for my own glorification instead of just to be enjoyed by others, no matter what it turned out like. It's obvious now that the food didn't turn out for a reason. A reason called a lesson.
It was a hard lesson. A hard lesson learned a hard way with a hard fall. And you know what? Not one person noticed the broken cookies or missed the blob turnovers. The evening was a huge success and my flubbed up desserts did not make or break the evening. They were just used as an instrument to break my pride.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Let it Snow!
Today I signed up for the Let it Snow reading club for adults at the library. I look forward to this at winter time as it gets me out of my "normal" reading patterns and into books I usually wouldn't read. It is set up like a bingo game. There are drawings for completing two bingo's and the entire sheet but I'm excited to read some different types of genres. I never know what to read except what I'm used to, so with lists of suggestions given for each genre, I have somewhere to start.As you can see on the sheet, there are different types of books you have to read to fill a square. Animal stories, chick lit/men in action, set in the west or a western, mystery or thriller, etc. There are also 4 "your choice" boxes. So it is quite an array of books that you will have read by the time the sheet is all filled up.
I have my first 4 books.
One Book One County: Peace Like A River by Leif Enger
Inspirational or Romance: When Heaven Weeps by Ted Dekker
Chick Lit or Men in Action: Rachel's Holiday by Marian Keyes
Michigan Author: Wanting Only To Be Heard by Jack Driscoll
Monday, December 04, 2006
Saturday, December 02, 2006
scene change
Freezing rain for 8 hours. Snow for 4 hours. School for 0 hours. Playing outside for 15 minutes. Rosy cheeks for 30 minutes. Hot chocolate for 3 minutes.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
twisted
It's just not right when the temperature reached 63 today, is sitting at 56 at 7:04 pm, and a winter storm watch is in effect.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
reoccuring theme
I had written the following a while back and I keep coming back to it, so I thought it would be worth sharing as it is an area in my life that continues to pop up.
I seem to have a reoccuring theme inside of me. A theme of "not good enough". Where it comes from, I know. It's the enemy trying to ruin my heart. To ruin the image of who I believe I am. A daughter of God. This theme comes and goes each month. It could be a sentence, a phrase that flits before my eyes. Something someone says or doesn't say. It's usually something I assume. I have learned that assuming is not that great of an idea to do. Emotions come flooding back. Emotions of I'm not liked because I'm not like so and so, or think like this person, or do what this person does. That I'm not good enough based on what and who others are. Over the past months I've beaten myself down because of this, or should I say, have allowed myself to be beaten down. Weeks out of every month have been spent in tears, sorrow, self pity and truly believing I really am not good enough for any one. Why is this so important to me? Is life based soley on this aspect? No. Funny, that after months of being told that I am worth something, that I truly believed those words. All these emotions came flooding back today because of what I assumed. I started being beaten down. Ground into the earth. Then a small, little flicker, a hushed whisper came to me. "God loves you. He thinks you are so very important. He LOVES you! You are assuming again and letting the enemy grab your heal and pull you down and I am here to hold you. You don't have to feel this way. I made you and love every aspect about you because I knitted you together and you are exactly who and what you are supposed to be. My child." All of this came at me in a split second. And after these thoughts flitted across my mind, very softly, I was ok.
This past Sunday we were visiting a friends church and the pastor spoke about being the unique person that God created you to be. To not pretend or wish you were someone else. To just be you. He talked about a conversation between Jesus and Peter (John 21:15-22). Jesus asking Peter three times if he loved Him and Peter answering yes all three times. Then Peter asking Jesus about John, who was following behind these two during their conversation, "What about him?" Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You should follow me." I need not try and be or wish to be someone I'm not. My focus should be on following Christ, not on who/what others are.
One step forward and I'm sure there will be steps back in the days to come, but letting this truth break through, has been a giant step. No matter how tired, beaten down or how many times I fall, I need to keep stepping, crawling, moving forward and continue being who He uniquely made me to be.
I seem to have a reoccuring theme inside of me. A theme of "not good enough". Where it comes from, I know. It's the enemy trying to ruin my heart. To ruin the image of who I believe I am. A daughter of God. This theme comes and goes each month. It could be a sentence, a phrase that flits before my eyes. Something someone says or doesn't say. It's usually something I assume. I have learned that assuming is not that great of an idea to do. Emotions come flooding back. Emotions of I'm not liked because I'm not like so and so, or think like this person, or do what this person does. That I'm not good enough based on what and who others are. Over the past months I've beaten myself down because of this, or should I say, have allowed myself to be beaten down. Weeks out of every month have been spent in tears, sorrow, self pity and truly believing I really am not good enough for any one. Why is this so important to me? Is life based soley on this aspect? No. Funny, that after months of being told that I am worth something, that I truly believed those words. All these emotions came flooding back today because of what I assumed. I started being beaten down. Ground into the earth. Then a small, little flicker, a hushed whisper came to me. "God loves you. He thinks you are so very important. He LOVES you! You are assuming again and letting the enemy grab your heal and pull you down and I am here to hold you. You don't have to feel this way. I made you and love every aspect about you because I knitted you together and you are exactly who and what you are supposed to be. My child." All of this came at me in a split second. And after these thoughts flitted across my mind, very softly, I was ok.
This past Sunday we were visiting a friends church and the pastor spoke about being the unique person that God created you to be. To not pretend or wish you were someone else. To just be you. He talked about a conversation between Jesus and Peter (John 21:15-22). Jesus asking Peter three times if he loved Him and Peter answering yes all three times. Then Peter asking Jesus about John, who was following behind these two during their conversation, "What about him?" Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You should follow me." I need not try and be or wish to be someone I'm not. My focus should be on following Christ, not on who/what others are.
One step forward and I'm sure there will be steps back in the days to come, but letting this truth break through, has been a giant step. No matter how tired, beaten down or how many times I fall, I need to keep stepping, crawling, moving forward and continue being who He uniquely made me to be.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
coming to you...
From balmy Ill.
We made it today to our friends' place around 11 a.m. our time, 10 a.m Ill time. (The road trip was split up into two days). Our friends weren't home, so we sat on their front porch ready to surprise the husband. Within 5 minutes, they pulled in the driveway and he exited the car slack jawed. "Happy Birthday!!" He was absolutely shocked.
We had lunch out and then went to the park. With it being a nice 70 degrees, we took advantage of every moment outside.
Excellent conversations, excellent weather, all around an excellent day.
Tomorrow is church, lunch in St. Louis (another surprise for our friend's 40th birthday weekend) and then heading home. The time here has moved way too quickly.
Bedtime is approaching. Kids have had a hard day playing with their friends. They even tried out the oversized jacuzzi tub in our room (which went better than last night in the hotel pool when Alina drank too much water and threw up all over the pool deck. Her little belly and pool chlorinated water don't mix well).
Happy Thanksgiving weekend!!
We made it today to our friends' place around 11 a.m. our time, 10 a.m Ill time. (The road trip was split up into two days). Our friends weren't home, so we sat on their front porch ready to surprise the husband. Within 5 minutes, they pulled in the driveway and he exited the car slack jawed. "Happy Birthday!!" He was absolutely shocked.
We had lunch out and then went to the park. With it being a nice 70 degrees, we took advantage of every moment outside.
Excellent conversations, excellent weather, all around an excellent day.
Tomorrow is church, lunch in St. Louis (another surprise for our friend's 40th birthday weekend) and then heading home. The time here has moved way too quickly.
Bedtime is approaching. Kids have had a hard day playing with their friends. They even tried out the oversized jacuzzi tub in our room (which went better than last night in the hotel pool when Alina drank too much water and threw up all over the pool deck. Her little belly and pool chlorinated water don't mix well).
Happy Thanksgiving weekend!!
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
eight blind mice
The mouse population has grown in our home. The population, that is, of dead mice. Yesterday and this morning were the clinchers. Yesterday I asked Sam the usual morning question. "Would you like to go and check the mouse traps?" He really enjoys dead things. Morbid, I know. He was yelling for me to come downstairs to see the trap that sprang, was licked free of peanut butter, and beheld no objects in the shape of a small rodent. So I rounded the corner and was heading back upstairs when I saw a movement. There, peeking up at me was a cute little mouse. The kids started yelling, "DON'T KILL IT MOMMY!!!". So what is a mother supposed to do? Secretly kill it behind their backs? Let it roam free so as not to squish two little hearts who are looking adoringly at the beady eyed invader? I quickly looked around to see what I could squash it with and found nothing. I came up and called Ed. "How do you kill a live mouse?" I was armed with a plastic cup to capture it, went back downstairs and it was gone. I picked up my exercise mat and tapped it on the floor, out jumped the mouse, me following it with a cup and it leaping to safety under the couch. DRAT!Sam was even so considerate to peel off all of his crust from his toast and leave it on the floor to feed the mouse. Thank you my son.
This morning I awake to this: "jean" in a hushed whisper. "JEan". "JEAN!". I was then awake. Came downstairs and Ed said, "Look". There in the middle of the kitchen floor was my small little tin tub that is usually on top of the washing machine, upside down. My mind was still a bit foggy and was asked, "do you know what's in there?" I squeemishly replied, "a mouse?". Bingo. He said he saw it running around the dining room was able to cover it up and right before the tub went over it, it just gave a little innocent look at him. What to do next? I suggested putting a mouse trap under there with it and let that kill it. So downstairs I went to get the mouse trap I had set for yesterdays live mouse, thinking that was the mouse that managed to make it upstairs. I yelled up to Ed, "It wasn't the mouse that was down here!" I still need to empty that trap. So we tried to set the mouse trap, but it went off right when Ed put the tub over it. Paper bag with a little tub and jumping mouse inside worked wonders. Then transfered to a plastic bag. Then like a grape juice stomping party, but in pajamas, the fun began. Three out of four of us were outside on the back deck making a quick demise to the rodent who wasn't so smart to show its face in our home. I sat inside hoping I was going to be able to eat today.
So now, death blocks are strategically placed all around the perimeter of the house. Death food. Lucky mice. Talks of getting a mouser are more and more now.
Now as dusk falls I sit here and think I see running things across the floor and hear rustling, scratching sounds. Ahhhh the imagination does wonders.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
what about you?
1. A God who loves and forgives, no matter how many times I fall flat on my face. Pursues, offers life, breathes sustinance. Lifts me up when I am deep in despair or depression. Is patient in my relationship with Him, in learning how I fit into His ultimate story, and seeking out who He made me to be. Promises to always be there and has been there through dark valleys and sunny peaks. For this I am thankful.
2. A man who puts the twinkle in my eye. Is my best friend. Holds me when life is crashing by so hard and breathing is next to impossible. Accepts me despite my faults. Listens to my heart whether it is crying or laughing. Encourages me to try new things and climb out a bit further on the limbs of life. Takes my hand and doesn't let go through the adventures that are placed before us. For him I am thankful.
3. Two little people who forgive at the drop of a hat. Have smiles that radiate with joy and the youthfulness of life. Are reminders that living CAN be fun. Exude health and are vibrant. Fill our home with laughter, screams, stomping feet and noise. Give hugs full of love. Cause silliness and tears. Bring joy that no other can fill. For these two I am thankful.
4. Friends who listen and nudge. Cause stomach cramps from laughing so very hard. Remind me to be myself and no one else. Are authentic. Encourage spiritual growth and depth. Despite miles of separation, are always a phone call or e-mail away. For all of them I am thankful.
5. Family. A warm home. Music. Sounds of the ocean, birds, leaves rustling. Seasons. Books. A growling stomach as a reminder to eat. Imaginations. Each person's uniqueness. Hard times causing growth. Needs being met. And so much more.
For all of these I am thankful. What about you?
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