Party of Five

Summer lists

2011-06-02T08:25:00.005-05:00

So, the long awaited lists are in! The kids could not wait to make these lists this year. In true third child fashion, even Owen got in the action.

I love how their lists reflect their personalities, their interests and will someday give them a sneak peek into what they were like at this age. As I read through the lists, my emotions fly from laughter to tears. Josh wants to learn how to mow the lawn (he's growing up). Ellie wants her ears pierced (didn't see that one coming). Owen wants to wear shorts (I guess it's the simple things, eh?).

So enjoy the lists and we'll keep you posted on which ones we've achieved as summer begins today!

Ellie's Summer List
(It's two pages, because, well, a girl needs options, ya know)

Owen's Summer List

Josh's Summer List

Another milestone

2010-11-30T19:47:00.004-06:00

He's up there right now. In the gentle darkness, snuggled up on the comfy covers, telling him the truth. The truth about the big man in red.

Josh had asked this morning on the way to the bus stop if Santa was real. With a little still-want-her-to-believe-sister in the car, his dad effectively dodged the question.

We had a feeling this was going to be the year. The year when one of childhood's innocent fibs would slowly be brought into the light of truth.

So we talked about how he would tell him tonight. How we would try to protect the secret for his younger siblings, too. How it is based on the powerful truth that there are some things we believe in, but just can't see.

I wonder if it will make him feel older, like now he knows something and can share in "what the big people know." It's like...sitting at the with the adults after years at the kids' table. I look forward to his knowing looks when the mention of Santa comes up in conversation. His raised eyebrows that match his older-than-he-really-is soul.

By now, the deed is done. I can hear his dad coming down the stairs.

My boy is growing up. This is one of those moments when I'm doing a cheer and a sigh at the same time.

Sassy Six-Year-Old

2010-08-08T16:07:00.006-05:00

Another birthday is upon us! And although I'd like to make yet another birthday all about me and how much I'm growing up as a momma, I think I should steer this blogpost to a more appropriate subject...

Ellie.

This beautiful, sassy, smart, silly, full of giggles and wiggles little girl is turning six this week.

She takes amazing pictures and loves to find the pretty things around her.

She's adventurous and is willing to take some risks,
as long as she has a firm grip on a loving hand. Then, after a few tries....she's off!

She's a reader. I can't wait to see how her imagination will be
bolstered by the way she swallows books whole.

She's silly, even wild at times. Her giggles get away from her
and there's no turning back until the hiccups arrive.

This girl loves her desserts. I'd like to say I have no idea where she got this from, but it's just so obvious. Give her chocolate and you have made a friend for life.

One thing is for sure, Ellie loves her brothers. They might tease her and do what all boys do to make girls crazy, but she loves them. She longs for their hugs and tackles. A cuddle on the couch, a goofy smile or a helping hand are all it takes for these three to come together like a little team. And if it were up to her, she'd be the team captain. every. time.

Happy birthday, my dear girl. You amaze us everyday with your imagination,
your love and your silly spirit. What a year it will be!

Morning Musing

2010-08-04T08:35:00.002-05:00

(After so many noisy storms, our kids are just tired of them now.)

One by one this morning they came,
Trembling chins from the thundering rain.

"Come on in, and snuggle tight,
Everything will be all right."

The noises that made you wake so fast,
Will move on through...they won't last.

A snuggle turned into giggles,
Giggles into wiggles.

And although the storm continue to roar,
We all felt better and didn't think of it anymore.

****

It's amazing how a mother's look, smile, kiss or touch,
Can change a child's perspective so much.

Time's a-flyin'

2010-07-25T17:54:00.001-05:00

Wow. I haven't posted anything in July and by the end of this week, the month will be long gone.

I can't say that I haven't had the time, or even much to say, but I guess I just haven't taken the time to say what's been happening around here. (Although, the kiddos recent uber-interest in the computer means that they have some kinda alarm that must go off in their heads when I sit down at the ol' keyboard~not leaving much time for typing away our life's adventures.)

Life is full. Full of busy schedules, get togethers, lazy afternoons in the sun, book reading, party-going and family time. Family time. It was the one thing I longed for during the school year. As the school schedule takes over, life becomes the hamster wheel. We're just peddling to keep up with it.

But as summer has relaxed us, we've gotten into slow mornings (think breakfast at 8am instead of 6am), surfing the web for fun videos to watch (think "Phineas and Ferb- Squirrels in my Pants"), and made up games (checkers where the goal is to stack them as high as you can~ the ultimate "king me").

Vacations & staycations have been such a blessing for us this year. Thankfully, (with occasional family help), we've been able to do everything from getting a piece of summer at Christmas, swoosh down indoor waterslides, fly over oceans to explore an island, splash to our heart's content in a family pool, spend a whole week at a lake house, and explore nearby parks and playplaces.

Trying to sell our house is proving to be a huge lesson in patience for me. Waiting on God's timing is not something this control-freak of a momma is used to. But it's good. It's a life lesson. It's a chance for us to step back and really find out what matters to us.

This summertime we've had at home has also given me a chance to get to know my kids all over again. Not that I didn't know them during the school year, but now, with time - extended time, I can watch them, talk with them and really listen to what they are saying to me, to each other. Oh, the things I've learned. Josh is growing up super fast. Ellie's world is growing through books and a more curious mind than she's previously showed us. Owen. Well, Owen is learning a lot of from his siblings. Some good, some not-so-good. But, still, he's growing and developing this crazy sense of humor that will do him well some day. In a way, I look forward to our days alone when the kids go back to school.

So, in a nutshell. Family time. That's what we've been up to.

It's been such a different summer than any we've had before and I'm so glad it's not over yet.

Summer Reading: Lesson in Gender Differences

2010-06-28T14:43:00.003-05:00

A difference between boys and girls:

Got back from the library this morning and Ellie absolutely devoured her books. Ahh. I love my little reader.

Josh, on the other hand, had to be convinced to sit and read, but the vulture book he checked out is turned out to be filled with ultra-cool grossness. (Did you know that vultures throw up on other animals to keep them away from their own meal? I'm seeing distinct similarities between them and mealtimes when our kiddos were in the eat-and-puke-it-up stage.)

Owen just thought it was keen to get his very own library card. In true boy fashion, he quickly discovered it could make "tooting" sounds when he held it to his mouth and blew. (no picture for this one, the hilarity that ensued from this was enough to make me forget to snap a memory)

* * * * *

Summer reading should be interesting this season. I'm desperately trying to take my own teacher advice and get the kids reading at least 15 minutes each day. As a bonus, it's been a nice (quiet) way for Owen to be willing to take a nap. When the house is buzzing with only the sounds of pages turning, it's easier for him to lay his active little body down for some much needed shut-eye. I have been thrilled to have my own opportunity to read and catch up on some books that have been shelved for the school year. Currently, a biography on Julia Child has been a fun way for me to get used to reading for fun again. I look forward to trying some of the recommendations from friends who carve out time for book clubs during the school year and other suggestions from various sources.

Ahh. Bring on the reading. Bring on summer!

It's gone!

2010-06-26T15:26:00.004-05:00

Yep, it's gone.

It held on by a teeny thread as long as it could.

But the power of a sibling who has "been there, done that" prevailed.

Now, we wait for the Tooth Fairy!

Her little tooth will be waiting in this uber-cute tooth pillow made by her Aunt Sarah. Isn't it adorable?

The coolest guy I know.

2010-06-20T09:12:00.001-05:00

This man has surprised me. (Not the cute little one with a cheese-mo smile, but the bigger cuter one with a smile that makes me melt. Still.)

Eight years ago this man celebrated his first Father's day. I'm not sure that was on the top of his "cool things I'd like to celebrate" list when he was young. If he doesn't mind me sayin' so. But he's surprised me. And, most likely, himself, too.

He wrestles. He kisses owies. He cuddles. He listens to little ones read. He takes them on adventures...anywhere he goes. Seriously, this man can make a trip to the grocery store with three kids in tow an adventure. He makes them laugh. Hard. I think he's the only one who can get Ellie to giggle so that soon we're all laughing. He builds with them. He teaches them about fishin' and other cool guy stuff. He runs. He plays.

And, he loves me, like no one ever could, which shows them more than a novel could ever tell them about how to love each other.

So, to the man who has grown into an amazing father...I love you and those little ones who look up to you everyday, love you, too!

Happy Father's Day, Dear.

Popsicles....it's SO summertime!

2010-06-16T21:28:00.002-05:00

Signs

2010-04-18T20:08:00.003-05:00

Apparently, I have my mother's hands.

When I was young, church was not the most interesting place for me. No fault to the pastor or for my parent's lack of trying, I was just easily distracted. The windows, what was outside the windows, the hymnals, the ceiling, basically anything that caught my eye could pass the time for at least a few minutes. Once a spider making it's way down the aisle drew quite a bit of attention for me and a few other young ones. Throughout the seasons, I had one favorite distraction.

My mother's hands.

My mother had, and still does, I think, have beautiful hands. An odd thing, yes, but still, very true. Her long fingers and the rings that were displayed on them were often looked to as a church distraction for me. I'd watch her diamond sparkle, fantasizing about my very own one day. When she played the piano, those long fingers moved deftly between the keys. Her nails were always kept relatively short, but were smooth, rarely painted. My first lasting memories of her are centered around the time she was pregnant with my youngest brother. She was about thirty-five at the time.

She was never one to spend a lot of time on herself, either from lack of time or the fact that she was brought up to not focus on "spoiling" yourself. And yet, her hands, and arms were always soft, gentle and yet, strong. I loved them.

As I sat in church the other day, still prone to some time of distraction, I began to give Josh a back scratch as he leaned forward in the pew. I looked at my hand. It was familiar, of course, but instantly, I was brought back to the old pew where I had once been.

My own hands have changed dramatically over time. Diapers, dinners, winters, summers, games, cleaning and age all have had their way with my hands. More wrinkled than I had remembered them recently, my first thought was, "Dude, I need moisturize these babies more!" And then I thought... they looked like hers. The way I remember them. Maybe not perfect in the world's standards, but beautiful, just the same.

As I thought more about it, I think what really triggered that memory, was the other reason why I liked her hands. She used those slightly wrinkled hands to give us those gentle touches that let us know we were loved. Back scratches in church were just one way of many that we felt the love she didn't always find time to say with words. Allowing us to examine her hands, hold them, squish the skin to watch to pop back into place...all ways to show us it we were loved.

There was an odd "full-circle" feeling to that moment in church. A recognition of what my mother did to show us love, but also, that here I was, where she had been, so many years ago, doing the same thing: Taking my family to church, showing love to my son through touch and seeing my own hands become my mother's hands.

I wonder if she ever had that same moment.

I have a feeling I am in for many more of those "look where life has taken me" times ahead. It's good to know that the road I travel is not one that is unpaved, or at least, untrodden. Motherhood truly is a journey. I guess one whose roads often come around the same bend every so often.

Happy Birthday, Owen

2010-04-18T19:55:00.005-05:00

My little guy is three.

He has many-a-nickname...

Mr. 3 (being child #3 and now age 3, this has many applications)
Dude (as in, "Dude, WHAT are you doing? Promptly followed by, "I unknow?")
Little Man
Owie (a cousin favorite)
Eyebrows (just ask him to show you his eyebrows...he's like a trick pony with this one)
Captain Awesome (aptly named because of his overuse of this word...often said after he's hurtled through space with his tongue out, striking some funky pose, crashing into the ground)
The boy who will bring us to the emergency room someday. (this week's bloody nose is just a small indication, methinks)

Whatever we call him, one thing is for sure. This boys brings us all pure joy. From birth this little guy has had the same amazing attitude: tackle life without reservations, add a smile and all will be well.

I love it, envy it and occasionally try to reign it in when it seems it might get the best of him. He'll learn some things the hard way, like his sister and he'll charm his way through the rest, like his brother.

I can't wait to see what this next year will bring.

I love ya, buddy.

Happy Birthday, Josh

2010-02-01T17:51:00.007-06:00

Eight years ago today, I became a mom for the first time. I had no idea what I was getting into. It's been one amazing ride. Thankfully, one that is not over yet.

I'm not a overly sentimental mom (you should see how quickly I get the cute kiddo-created art projects flying outta this place), but this birthday has me on a wind of nostalgia.

Last night I regaled the family with story of Josh's birth.

The anticipation... the patience I needed while he seemingly decided to set up camp in my uterus for the near future...the induction date set and then pushed back even one more day while all those mommies' babies came into the world because of a local snowstorm (who knew the weather influenced birth?....apparently, not Josh!)...and then, finally, seeing him for the first time.

Remembering the details, talking about how each baby was different, was so good for me. I remembered how small and precious they were when we first saw them. Their size has changed, but not how precious they are to us. I caught myself getting that far-off look on my face like a goofy soap opera star. These children have changed my life in ways I couldn't anticipate. Encouraging, and challenging. Uplifting, and humbling. (all within a few minutes of each other)

I've been a mom for more than half our married life now. Life on our own is already a distant memory. But we still remember those days, too. I even get that silly wistful look on my face, too.

Happy Birthday, Josh.

Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose. ~From the television show The Wonder Years

Top Ten of 2009

2009-12-23T13:12:00.005-06:00

Wow, I guess it's been awhile since I posted here. Life is busy.

In my annual attempt to remember the excitement here at the Party of Five, with full knowledge that I am not as young as I used to be and therefore, not retaining memories as well....

The Top Ten of 2009: (sans pictures....computer crash ate all my pictures!)

10. Owen turned 2! This little boy brings a smile to my face any time of the day. Even when he's mad, he's cute. He's learned some interesting catch phrases, "Oh, no, he di-nt!" (complete with hand gestures) is one of my favorites. His laugh is infectious and I'm grateful he still likes to cuddle and let me kiss his cubby little cheeks!

2010 goal: Potty training and trying not to imitate everything that his sibs do.

9. Ellie turned 5. And went to Kindergarten. All Day. Everyday. It was a well-prayed for decision and we're happy to say she loves it. Loves her teacher, her friends, the bus and even her "homework." She's still gets tired and I'm beginning to realize she might need some wellness days off occasionally. But all in all, she is surprising me everyday by the things she learns, remembers and is interested in. Her birthday itself came and went fairly quietly, as I'm afraid it will too often (a birthday right before school starts is tricky!), but, thankfully she still young enough not to remember! (shh..don't tell!)

2010 goal: honesty, a calm spirit in the face of conflict and a way to harness her creativity (which usually ends up on the walls, table or any other surface besides paper).

8. Josh will be 8 in February. Although this isn't an event in 2009 technically, we're already thinking about it. (having a birthday a month after Christmas is tough...wait I'm noticing a pattern here). He is an excellent student, so full of energy and a real interest for all things family. He's our tradition-tracker, making sure that we've remembered "family night" and any other activity that keeps up hangin' together as a party of five.

2010 goal: Find out what to do when things are hard for you and continuing your talents in sports (we're so proud!).

7. Family nights have been our refuge. We've endured some interesting weeks, ones where we lacked serious family time and Friday nights have come to the rescue. The Red.box is our cheap family entertainer. We intersperse our nights with some game nights as well, knowing that our ultra-competitive first-born will most likely end up in tears if he doesn't win. We've had to say "no" to Bible study this fall, so we could keep our sanity, and also refocus our priority to the five of us. So many good memories have been had, snuggled up on the couch with a good movie, chomping on popcorn, and chatting about our favorite scenes, lines and characters. We miss our adult friends, but know that this time is fleeting and we're just trying to hold on as long as we can.

2010 goal: Find the balance between time with family and time with friends.

6. New niece and nephew. Oh how fun it is to rejoice with family on the birth of new babies! Ashlee was born in January and Andrew was born in June. These little ones are a joy to hold (and give back!). I think about how wonderful it is that our extended families are expanding. Each niece and nephew has their own distinct personality and I love seeing us all together. It reminds me of how much fun I had with my cousins when we were young.

2010 goal: Keep updated on what the little ones are doing (big and small ones!)

5. My knee surgery. Ugg. If there is one thing that will bring you back to reality it's a health crisis. You find who you can depend on, and who depends on you. As any busy mom will say, it is very difficult to take time for yourself. This forced me to stop and take time to rest. If this was a test on how well I could handle chronic illness, I can't say that say that I passed. No flying colors here. But, the support of my amazing husband and the surprising assistance and independence of my kids was a silver lining in an otherwise dismal situation. I am happy to report that I can run, play and move without thinking about my knee and it's month-long recovery in June.

2010 goal: Get strong so that this will become a distant memory.

4. 14 years of marriage. I have only recently realized what an amazing man that I am walking this life journey with. I run out of superlatives to describe how he supports our marriage, our family and our church. I'd add more, but some things are best said just to the ones we love.

2010 goal: Celebrate 15 years with an amazing man in an amazing place (hopefully!)

3. I sang in front of a crowd. This is one of those "Bucket List" items. It was my cousin's wedding and it was a silly song, but ~ I sang. People laughed (at the words, I hope) and I can proudly cross this one off the list. 2010 goal: Who knows!

2. A recharging trip to DC. After a month long recovery from my knee surgery, the hubs and I went to our nation's capitol to celebrate his cousin's wedding. Without kids. It was glorious. We did some sight seeing, reminding me of the fact we need to head back there some day with our kids. We did some laughing, reminding me that life is funny. No matter how sad it may seem some days. And we danced. On a rooftop. With young people who probably don't even remember the 'Macarena'. Reminding me that life can be a party like none other. Instead of feeling old and hobbled, I was able to boogie in the open air, with my oh-so-groovy dance partner for life.

2010 goal: Dance more, laugh more, get out and go places!

1. In some ways, it was an uneventful year. In other ways, I should be blogging every other minute about the wacky, happy, sad, eventful happenings of our little Party of Five. But, I think that in all that happened this year (big and small), I saw that my Savior is the one with His hands on the controls. He saved us when He saw fit, He held us when we cried, and He danced along with us when joy overflowed.

2010 goal: Lean on Him for everything. Everything.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

Ants

2009-08-27T14:47:00.003-05:00

Since the end of last spring we have had ants in our kitchen and eating area. On and off throughout the summer, I warred with these little buggers. We had weeks where they were a distant memory and then, they would reappear. I even got the kids so fired up, that their "alarms" would go off and the sounds of children screaming, "ANTS!" would sound through the house. Even Owen gets into it. I'd come around the corner to find them, nose to the ground, squishing these invaders to oblivion. (And then we washed our hands *wink*)

Although this is not a family pastime that I would like to continue, it has been a good way for us to fight off a common foe and see how we handle frustrating situations. I cleaned like a mad woman, even putting off breakfast one morning to practically hose down the kitchen. I was diligent in my efforts, but they seemed to always find some other avenue for finding miscellaneous food. My kitchen has never been cleaner, and yet, they come.

But these ants. In the midst of calling them an assortment of colorful names (in my head, of course), I began to admire them. They're tenacious, single-minded in their purpose, and are not swayed by the occasional obstacle. Heaven knows that I could use some of their stamina, drive and even flexibility.

What I don't need is their presence in my kitchen.

Who knew that a small insect held such deep insight?

Ps. I've used a variety of products, which work for a while. Now, I'm glad to say that having the Orkin man for a neighbor is good thing.

Happy Birthday, Grandpa!

2009-08-27T14:25:00.004-05:00

My Dad turned 60 recently. A few months before that my Mom did the same. They also celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in June of this year. Which means that they got married when they were 20 years old. Just like me.

In preparation for making their anniversary video I looked through hundreds of photos of them throughout the years. It was amazing. I began to see my parents in a different way. I saw photos of them goofing with other young newly married couples, taking cute new-baby pictures, growing as a family, and posing in many wonderful vacation spots.

And it looked familiar.

Not just because I was in some of the photos (and certainly I had a whoosh of memories because of them), but because it looked like my life. Even though I sometimes believe that they have no idea what I'm talking about, I was quickly reminded that....They lived it and they survived. True, many things have changed over time in the way of child-raising and marriage roles, but in it's essence, they lived the life I live now.

In a way, it encouraged me to seek out opportunities for them to revel in this next stage of their lives...grandparenting. Even though they have been grandparents for over 7 years now, I want this to be one of the more enjoyable times of their lives. I love seeing them with their grandkids. My dad is right there on the floor with them, rolling around, laughing, teasing, and makin' noise. My mom is sweet and affectionate to them, always ready to sit and read them a book that she's read a hundred times before.

It's great to see them leap into this stage. To see them embrace the joys and sorrows of seeing their own kids raise kids. To see them envision a bright future for our family, one that includes a whole lot more birthdays, anniveraries and celebrations.

Happy Birthday, Mom and Dad. Here's to many more years together!

Ps. Here's a picture of the cake I made. Yes, I am loving my new cake pan and finding any excuse to use it!

Garden Goodness

2009-08-21T14:00:00.004-05:00

I came around the corner of the house and saw this:

Then the first words I thought of were these:

God is great. God is good. Now we thank him for this food.

Amen.

Another birthday cake attempt...

2009-08-14T21:08:00.002-05:00

Ellie turned five this week. Five. Years. Old. Kindergarten is on the horizon. School bus ride. Backpack filled with papers. Everyday. All day.

I have no real concerns for her as she starts this venture. Ellie is a spunky girl who knows her mind and what she likes. She has two brothers and she holds her own whenever the "love" they show her is beyond what a girl can handle. She makes friends easily and has an imagination that puts Dr. Suess to shame. I love so much about her, and I can't wait to see what this year brings. And although I've got mostly cliches to describe her at this moment, something tells me that she'll find some poetic words someday to tell stories about her mother made crazy cakes for birthdays every year.

I'm not sure what drives me to attempt these cakes. I'm not a very good baker, let alone a steady hand at anything remotely detail-oriented. I have little patience for most projects that don't have a definite result in a relatively short amount of time.

But maybe that's it.

It's a labor of love. It's a challenge for me. And I know they love it. I love the part where we snuggle up in a chair and discuss all the possibilities. How each idea represents a part of them, at this moment in time. When the idea is finally chosen, colors decided, frosting and cake mixes bought (oh yes, bought), I get to make something. Make something for them. Something that is all their own...before we cut it up and devour it's sugary goodness.

So here it is. The latest installment in the birthday cake making years. It's not perfect, but it's a cake made with love. And pink frosting. She'll love it.

Happy Birthday, Elle Belle.

Ps. Big thanks to Aub and Paul for finding this great cake pan at a garage sale and donating it to the cause.

Landmark Purchase

2009-05-01T19:04:00.005-05:00

As a young lady, there were many landmark purchases that signaled momentous occasions, or the passing from one stage in life to another. The first clothes purchase with money earned on your own. The mortifying trip to your local department store to buy your first bra. With your mother. Who smiled the whole time, like she was thinking, "you have no idea what you're getting into." Of course, there are similar necessity purchases that coincide with a certain time of the month. Those get easier as time goes on. Purchases like a wedding dress and clothes for the honeymoon elicit a bit more excitement and fonder memories to be sure.

As a mom, I've had even more landmark purchases. My first pack of onesies as I registered for all things baby while I was pregnant with Josh brought tears to my eyes ("will it really be that small?"). Diapers were a drudgery, but the purchase of special undies as that first one made the leap from diapers to boyhood was just as thrilling for me as it was for him. Of course, the first few copays at the doctor when your little one gets sick, bumps his head or needs shots make their mark in your memory as well. Soon your kiddos grow. They get into various extracurricular activities and you're quickly on your way to purchasing all manner of sports equipment. Before you've pumped up the first soccer ball, you notice your garage is being engulfed by all kinds of balls, bikes, trikes and spikes (shoes, that is).

But my latest purchase is one I did not expect.

I bought Josh's first sport's cup.

I'll assume you all know what I'm talking about. But maybe I shouldn't as my story will soon show.

He needs one for baseball this year. "It's not required," the Coach said, "but my son will be wearing one." (read: "If you care whether or not you have grandchildren someday, you better get yourself to the store, momma.")

So I went. Checked the under.wear aisle with no luck. (I have to preface this to say that it had already been a frustrating morning and wandering around me.ijer looking for a boys' peep protector was not getting me through my list as fast I would like.) So I got the guts to ask a nearby saleslady for help. (I can only say that this moment is probably tantamount to a man asking someone where he could locate the tam.pon aisle.)

She didn't know what I was talking about.

I tried to describe what a cup was without sounding like a pervert or snickering. Then she whips out her walkie-talkie. I began to panic. Is she calling for help? Will there be that embarrassing announcement relaying the need for a young boys' althletic supporter? Will a crowd gather as we all try to figure out where this mystery object is located...until I finally scream, "It's to protect his peep and my future grandchildren!"?

Deep breath.

I further explained that it was for sports. AHH! Then we should look in the sports section, she says. Ok, thanks, I'll be on my way, then. I walk away. She follows. I wasn't sure if she followed out of sheer curiosity, or out of some customer service obligation, but I could have done without the escort.

We found it. The way it was packaged reminded me of the head of a Transformer. Maybe Decepticon. Odd. But it's a boy's item. What could I expect? Anyway, after a brief pause to decided on the size (oh dear) and a gracious "thank you!" to my fellow cup hunter, I tossed it into the cart and high-tailed it out of there for safer territory.

I headed for the baking aisle. I needed chocolate.

The little Train that could...look any more less like a train

2009-04-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

In an effort to document my follies as an over-eager cake maker...

Note the engine of the train. If you look closely you can see how it is starting to separate. Apparently gravity works and toothpicks were not doing their job.

Here the birthday boy is getting instructions from Dad about how to blow out the candles. His eager face is what I'll remember, not the slouch of the cake or the fact that jelly beans DO NOT taste good on cakes.

The first candle gave him some trouble, but....

He succeeded!!
(Here the slouchy engine can be seen actually
being supported by the train car behind it.)

My eagerness to make fun cakes for my kids matched with a slight competition between some more crafty sister-in-laws makes for good memories, eh?

Happy Birthday, Owen!!

Just don't get into Star.Wars or anything too complicated by next year, ok?? Not sure the Millennium Falcon is on my list of "can-do" cakes!!

Because they were just too white, I guess...

2009-04-26T18:38:00.006-05:00

As I've noted in the past, my daughter's creativity knows no bounds. Especially when related to the medium with which she chooses to express said creativity.

Today's choice: New. White. Shoes.

To further explain why this a big deal (they were washable crayons, came off in a flash, bought at the cheapy shoe store, with a coupon, so really not a big deal), I must say a few things.

I am Dutch. I shop mostly at resale stores. This was only the second pair of real, live, brand-spanking, "I've still got the shoe box" shoes that I have ever bought. For any of my kids. Thanks to a very generous aunt who had boys and girls with a plethora of shoes and the resales, I have been able to avoid the shoe store.

Now I see a bit even more logic in skipping the store.

And just tying plastic bags to their feet.

Or maybe paper. She can color on paper.

He's Two!!

2009-04-23T12:58:00.000-05:00

My youngest has turned two! Although it is extremely clique'...I can't believe he's two already. And this child is, as they say, All Boy. He's dirty, rowdy, loud, loves to land on his bottom for no reason except for the fact that it makes a fun sound, tackle, throw (every)things, and thinks colliding humans are hilarious.

And I love him.

He's very different from his big brother in how quickly he's joined ranks of the rowdy, but still has a sweet side to him as well. In fact, when he sees one of his sibs in tears or feeling sad, he'll head over and with a slightly tilted head and a gentle pet on the arm, he reassures the ones he loves that all will be ok. And then he runs. Full tilt in any direction. E.R., here we come. We haven't totally celebrated yet, but I'm looking forward to watching him open some presents and chow on some boy-design birthday cake very soon.

This little boy, he is my third, my last, my Owen.

Happy Birthday, buddy. Momma loves ya!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-22T14:45:00.001-05:00

What???
Doesn't everyone eat their bagel this way??

Looking for the bright side

2009-03-30T13:41:00.005-05:00

In a bit of writing therapy, I'm hoping to write out a bunch of things that are bringing this family down and hope that they will then magically disappear. Also that maybe I can also see a few positives in all this mess.

My knee is in serious need of attention. An MRI tomorrow will hopefully shed some light on how old my knee thinks I am and what to do next. For now, just call me "step-and-a-half." The most frustrating thing is that I'm having a hard time making plans because I just don't know how much the ol' bod will take here. Or how much it will take back!

We have all succumb to a couple of nasty springtime colds. Ellie has taken the brunt of it. Poor dear was up often last night just trying to ignore her ear pain long enough to drift off into some fitful sleep. My mommy's heart was hurting because it's been awhile since one of my little partygoers really needed some serious TLC. But we muddled through and went to our fourth (yes f-o-u-r-t-h) doc's appointment in a week to confirm the reality we already knew. Whopper ear infection.

Which brings me to our personal attempt to keep our docs in business. Ellie was there a week ago with a sudden fever and suspected strep. No strep, just the beginning of this doosy of a cold. Owen went on Thursday for his two-year well baby appointment and they generously agreed to look at my knee while I was there. I figured my part of the appointment to be the more hefty one until the doc came back and said that Owen was also needing a trip to the hospital radiology department for an echocardiogram on his heart. Apparently, he has a heart murmur which hasn't presented previously, so they like to check it out with further tests. NOT what I was expecting. I'm not terribly worried at this point, but it's the unexpected that's got me going and I'm glad they can get both of our tests done tomorrow. Sooner is definitely better than later for me when it comes to gettin' some answers.

My beloved Hubs has not been immune to the cold bugs and is also fighting a pretty decent cold with all he's got. So on top of doing all the legwork that is harder for me to do right now, he's battling to see the forest through the fog. Bless. His. Heart.

So....The Bright Side??

We have doctors who can take care of us.

At least it's not both of my knees. (then I'd be "no-step")

We're on Spring Break this week, which means, no missed school, sub plans or working around schools schedules.

Josh is fighting a small cold, but still has enough energy to power a small city. Man, how do they keep him busy at school? (thank goodness for baseball practice tonight!)

Owen is Owen. I thought it would be a good time to start taking away his pacifier, but hey, someone needs some comfort around here when times get tough, right?

I'm praying. A lot. And not always in petition for our needs, but recognizing with gratefulness the blessings He has given us. A home. Food. Medicine. Family. Sunshine.

Ps. I don't want to post this as a sympathy-getter, but just a bit of therapy and an honest record of our days. Let's hope for brighter ones soon!

'Cause that's just how we roll

2009-03-10T08:00:00.002-05:00

This weekend we spent oodles of time celebrating my dearest man, the Hubs. He turned (an undisclosed amount of years), but let's just say that it'll be about 2 years before he's over the hill. It was quite busy getting together with family all weekend, but apparently we here at the Party house like to party. A lot. Often. All in one weekend.

Of course, doing that kinda partyin' is just asking for something to go awry. Fast forward to about 5 pm on Saturday. The dear Hubs had dropped Josh off at a friend's bowling party and was on an errand to pick up a few essential dessert items I had forgotten to get for our next party on Sunday with my family. I had the other two dear children at church with me for our dinner before Bible study.

Enter calamity.

Ellie had an accident in the church's bathroom and I have no change of clothes for her. Ugg. I cry out for help in a quick call to the Hubs.

Enter odd timing.

The Hubs is at the local discount grocery store picking up whipped cream in a can, and a bottle of wine that caught his fancy. So as he is checking out, I call, asking desperately for him to pick up some pants and underwear.

Enter loud cell phone conversation.

"So you need underwear?" (said loudly on the phone, in front of the cashier)...

While checking out with whipped cream in a can. And a bottle of wine.

Underwear+whipped cream+wine= odd look from cashier.

'Cause that's just how we roll.

A Man of Action

2009-03-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

This kid makes me laugh. Owen is almost two years old!! His birthday is a month away, but I'm already tearing up. It's been amazing to see him grow so fast in the last few months. He's been talking for quite a while now, and I can't even remember what it was like before he could use words! Owen has discovered that he can now tell us something that he's seen out the window of the car or in the aisle of a grocery store. Wow, the beginnings of real conversation. Of course, that's if you can keep him still for any length of time. He's a ball of energy and I'm imagining many active days outdoors this spring and summer. (yeah!) He loves to make people laugh and has also found out how to "make an entrance." This usually means entering a room with a big "Hel-lo!" Just this week the kids put on a little show to celebrate the Hubs' birthday and, of course, he got into the action. After his show (which consisted mostly of super-fast dancing feet and something like yodeling) he stopped. And then, stuck out his belly and yelled, "TA-DA!" What a crackup. One of my Dad's favorite sayings is, "Never a dull moment." Oh. How. True.

Spring Dirt

2009-03-06T13:07:00.004-06:00

Here's to many more dirty hands, sunny skies and

warm days that draw our winter worn souls outside!
Hallelujah!

ps. We're enjoying it while it lasts. Tomorrow promises to be rainy and cold again.
Ahh, spring in Chicago.

You can never be too careful...

2009-03-06T08:17:00.002-06:00

Buckle up, friends!

Have a great weekend!

Score one for old-fashioned fun

2009-02-24T11:09:00.004-06:00

Awhile ago a dear old lady from our church gave us her piano. She was moving into a nursing home and had no space for it. We still haven't tuned it, but it certainly provides a general sound for our little family chorus.

Today, Ellie was on the computer with Owen at her new favorite website (which I also love, it's from the guys who brought us singing vegetables). I sat down on the piano and found a wonderful rockin' song called "Soon and Very Soon." I was singing my little heart out (as only a crazy woman would, knowing no one could actually hear her, or at least anyone who knows what sounds good).

And around the corner peeked Ellie. Her smile said it all. These rockin' tunes telling of how we are only here for a little while while we wait for our King to come drew her away from the computer and into the dining room where she joined me for several verses (a few made up ones, too).

Score one for old-fashioned toys. And music that speaks to the soul.

Fighting Back

2009-02-23T21:13:00.004-06:00

To combat my previous post's winter hold on me and the fact that despite my serious tries at just willing my belly pudding (funny word...thanks Sarah S!) to disappear....

I worked out.

For 15 whole minutes.

With the loving support of my Hubs (he set up the TV so I could watch and elliptical at the same time) I did not pass out, did burn all of 100 whopping calories (which I seriously wanted to eat again in the form of some tasty evening snack, but didn't), and did restore my faith in my own willpower (or at least the fear of embarrassing myself as the big winter clothes will soon be unable to cover me up!).

This whole phenomenon of "working out" is actually pretty new to me. In all honesty, I haven't had to work out to keep in relative shape in recent years (or so I told myself). But a recent screening of my cholesterol and my growing belly pudding (I told you it was a funny word) from having baby #3 have catapulted my health front and center.

I actually think I went through various stages of grief. I felt that I was losing my youthfulness, or at certainly I was gaining an older body than I was not ready for. So I was in denial. "It's not that bad." But when recently Owen was playing peek-a-boo with an oddly large portion of my stomach sticking out the side of my comfy pants, I quickly moved on from denial to reality.

Really. Fast.

So then came anger. The "what the ?" question would be punctuated with choice words about getting older that I refused to believe or want. The Hubs was a total dear. Poor guy listened to rants without saying one word about how if I was so pissed...well, I should darn well do something about it. Luckily, I came to that on my own. He's patient, but not that patient.

So here we are. Day 1. Exercise+me= a happier me. Right?

Why am I writing this? Mostly so that when I'm thinking I don't need to exercise, or that I don't look that bad, I'll remember how good it feels right now to know that I've started. I've started to care about myself a bit more or at least enough.

Enough that the only bellies that we'll be playing peek-a-boo soon with will be those of the 2-and-under set.

It's what's for dinner...

2009-02-18T17:50:00.002-06:00

I've hit an new all-time dinner-makin' low.

Corn dogs. With pasta.roni noodles. Leftover veggies.

Where did I get that idea?

My dear girl, Ellie.

Why am I listening to her?

The winter-dinner doldrums are hitting hard and fast here in the Midwest.

Ugg.

Ketchup, anyone?

Writing to Remember

2009-02-02T16:44:00.004-06:00

I'm writing today to remember. I want to remember a day where I actually thought about how wonderful it would be to homeschool. I could see it now...the freedom to combine my greatest loves...spending time with my kids, teaching, and controlling any situation that I can. I'm finding the more that Josh is in school, the more I still want to influence what he is learning, how it's presented to me, and who his friends are. I suppose this is only natural seeing that up until recently I was in charge of all of these things. Unfortunately, life and the passage of time has a funny way of reminding us that "this too shall change."

I find some of it liberating, though. The idea that, maybe, somebody, may not, absolutely, need me all. the. time. for ev.er.y.thing. Ahh.

Josh was home today on a "wellness" day. We had a jam-packed weekend filled with friends, family and several birthday cakes. Add that with a bad cold he's not been able to shake and I allowed my mommy heart override the teacher in me and kept him home. And as we sat at home today, resting, and playing some of the great games he recieved as gifts, I smiled. I loved that we could just sit there, no agenda, no place to be, just discovering patterns in cards, jumping at the "attack" of an Uno card and occasionally letting my mind wander about how time is passing so quickly (he's seven now, you know...I've been a mom for seven years now).

I've been a bit sad about not blogging lately. I read this post by Jenni recently and felt better, because she wrote exactly what I had been feeling. But still, although I knew that they would remember more that I was there, playing with them, keeping them fed and clean, I wanted to remember the details. The things that photos didn't catch, the things that my momma brain will quickly file under "remember later in a dream, or not at all."

So today was one of those days. It was great. It was relaxing. It warmed my heart on a cold day.

Although, I'm pretty positive in the next ten minutes the kids will remind me why I can't wait for them to go to school...it's the ebb and flow of life with kids. Yep, I think I hear screaming now...

Top Ten of 2008

2008-12-20T15:48:00.002-06:00

Inspired by my sister-in-law here are my top ten events of 2008:

10. We began the year by doing some heavy soul-searching about schools for the kids. And oddly enough, we feel called to send our kids to private Christian schools. This has become one of the biggest leaps of faith we have encountered as a family, especially with times the way they are nowadays. But in this we've found God's glory being sung by seeing Josh blossom in his own faith, as young as he is.

9. We survived several small illnesses this year (pink eye, stomach bugs, colds colds and more colds). But what I find amazing is that usually it's an isolated event and it isn't passed on through the family. See, my maniacal hand washing is working!

8. It's hard to imagine it now, but Owen began walking early this year and just like most kids, he hasn't stopped since. My, how fast it goes.

7. We had a great trip to Atlanta this year around Easter time. Although it was for a sad reason, with the passing of the Hub's grandfather, it turned into this amazing time with family we don't see very often. The Aquarium was a huge hit with all of us and so was a trip up Stone Mountain.

6. When spring came we couldn't wait to get outside again. Owen discovered he was a big fan of the Bronco Rider and I didn't mind tagging along for the ride.

5. Owen turned one in April with much hoopla (naahh, not really, third child syndrome). He has been such a blessing to our family and it was wonderful to celebrate his big day with family.

4. Summer brought several things: T-ball, an attempt at gardening, afternoons in the sprinkler, trips to the park, and some great vacations.

3. We were blessed to have weeklong vacations with both sides of our family this year. A loooong (not a typo) trip to the Outer Banks was an amazing time at the beach. The weather was really wonderful and even the storm we had was a thing to behold. The second trip to a cozy cottage with the Hub's side was equally as fun. I found myself easily slipping into a routine of yummy breakfasts, lazy splashing in the lake, comfortable conversation and delicious dinners followed by movies and games. Ahhh.

2. School started this year with Josh going into first grade at a new school and Ellie in her first year at preschool. Both kids have jumped right into the school routine with eager anticipation. My teacher hearts sighs with happiness.

1. I'm pretty sure I'm missing a ton of things from big to small (like a terrific Thanksgiving, to giggly family nights), but looking at this year I see how blessed we are to have healthy, happy children, a marriage that is strong through the rough places, and a Savior that promises the "Peace that passes all understanding." With the plan to move our family one more time in this coming year I felt many emotions, but every time the still small voice of my Lord reminds me that He is in control and His plan is far greater than any that I have imagined.

Have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Christmas Meme

2008-12-05T13:26:00.002-06:00

Ok. Time to get into the spirit of things. My sister-in-law sent me this email and I thought it would make a good get-to-know-you-at-Christmas-time post. Enjoy, and then try it yourself!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper. I LOVE to wrap gifts. When we were young, my mom would try to "hide" our gifts in plain sight by wrapping them in some sort of pattern (all the snowman paper had my gifts inside, etc.). Some day when the kids wise up, I'll do the same. For now I just love taking the time to make the packages special.

2. Real tree or Artificial? Definitely real.

3. When do you put up the tree? Soon after Thanksgiving.

4. When do you take the tree down? After the New Year, before school starts again.

5. Do you like eggnog? No.

6. Favorite gift received as a child or adult? (adult) Plane tickets to California to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary. Of course, that was the same year I bought the Hubs a DVD player. So much for a budget that year.

7. Hardest person to buy for? The Hubs. He has this habit of buying gifts off his list while he's out shopping for others.

8. Easiest person to buy for? Josh.

9. Do you have a nativity scene? No. We would love one that the kids could "play" with. (any suggestions?)

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail or hand out (save a stamp!)

11.Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Can't think of one right now, but my dad gave my mom a housecoat/pajama robe one year that will live in infamy.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Polar Express, currently. I love watching kids watch it. Oh, and I really like all the old-time claymation ones!

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? October or November. It helps to spread out the cost.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes, but they're usually cute things I've gotten from students in the past that someone else could really use.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? My mom's fudge.

16. Lights on the tree? Yes, white only.

17. Favorite Christmas song? Micheal W. Smith's "Christmas Waltz."

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home, meet with family, unless we go to my sister-in-law's in Michigan to play in their snow!

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Sure...now, how's that song go?.....

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Eve with my side, Christmas morning with our little family and with the Hubs' side we do it whenever we can all get together.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Dragging the poor kiddos around in the cold, because I still love to shop in stores instead of online.

23. Favorite ornament theme or color? Snowmen and felt handmade ornaments

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Appetizers after Christmas Eve service.

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Practically?...A great kitchen knife. Emotionally?...peace of mind about moving sometime in the new year!

The Honeymoon is Over

2008-12-05T13:15:00.002-06:00

Yep. And it lasted longer than I thought. It usually starts losing it's luster after the first long weekend. But in this case, he made it until Thanksgiving.

I'm talking about Josh. (what did you think? hehe)

The poor dude survives an unfortunately long afternoon bus ride after working hard all day at school, only to hop in the van and be greeted by his little sister who finds an odd joy in telling him all the "fun" things she got to do while he was at school. So, it caught up to him.

After an wonderful trip to "Aunt Tami's" (apparently the coolest place on earth...blog to follow), and several days off school, Josh succumbed to the end of his honeymoon relationship with first grade. Now, this is not to say that he doesn't enjoy school (he loves it! ahhh...my teacher's heart), but now his rose-colored glasses are clearing up a bit and he looks forward to the weekends more, wondering when the next day off will come. Secretly, I am comforted by the fact that he misses being with me, because I miss him some days, too. (The rest of the days?...I'm thinkin' "when do they go back to school?)

I'm pretty sure after the real chill of winter sets in, a cozy couple of weeks off at Christmas, and he's cooped up in his classroom for a while...

... he'll be asking first grade for a divorce.

Right Now

2008-11-11T14:24:00.002-06:00

Here's an idea I borrowed from Jenni...

Right Now, I am:

feeling... relieved that conferences, soccer and the Hubs' softball league are all finally done!

enjoying... the quiet of the house today. Kids are napping...ahh.

wondering... if we will ever be able to decide on a neighborhood to move to and if our house will ever be sold (when we put it on the market)

listening... the hum of the computer. It's that quiet!

drinking... nothing at the moment.

wanting... a girl's night out. I miss the book club that we've all gotten too busy to keep up with.

loving... that the holidays are approaching. I love spending time with our little family at home, but a crowd of family gets me going! Plans are being made, menus discussed, and the shopping has begun! I love it.

looking... out the window at a dreary day. Still thankful for a warm, dry home filled with a Hubs who loves me and children that will make me smile on this dingy day.

Ps. I love that we can pass ideas like this through the blogosphere. This past weekend we were lucky enough to meet Sarah and her boys (Jason included!). What fun! We laughed, shared a great meal made by Emily and fell into the comfort of fellowship with friends.

Today's Giggle brought to you by...

2008-10-30T13:07:00.003-05:00

Ellie.

Ellie and Owen were running in circles around the living room (yes, the smallest things do amuse around here). In true Ellie-fashion she began to sing her own songs. Soon she realized she was singing the Bible verse we had been working on this week as a family. (from a great book recommended by Mary)

Ellie: Mom! Mom! Listen: "A soft answer turns away wrath!"

Mom: Wow, Elle, you remembered our Bible verse! Good for you! Do you remember what it means?

Ellie: Yep, to be quiet!!

Close but no cigar, my dear.

Ah well, baby steps, eh?

Halloween Survey

2008-10-24T15:13:00.006-05:00

Hey, here I am back at the blog!

My good friend, Emily, has helped me with an idea for today...a Halloween survey! Here's goes:

1. What was your favorite Halloween costume as a child?
The only costume I remember is the only one we have a picture of in the family album. I was Wonder Woman. I'm pretty sure my mom never let us be something like a current character (not all bad), so being able to buy a costume and wear it was pretty special. Now I don't exactly enjoy putting my kids in the character costumes either. I like the idea of a creative costume or something "timeless.'

2. Least favorite?
Can't remember anything but Wonder Woman. Mom?? Do you remember?

3. Favorite candy?
Ooo. This is a tough one. I heart Milky Way, Kit Kat and those little pumpkins that taste like candy corn.

4. Favorite fall treat that you baked?
I could say that I make these items, but my friends and family know better: Pumpkin bread, another raisin-type bread called "strocook" that my mom makes (I think it's a dutch thing) and all things that have to do with apples and caramel.

5. What age do you think one should stop trick-or-treating?
This is a tough one, because once the boys hit middle school is all blood and guts costumes and I'm pretty sure I've had kids who show up at the door dressed up as middle schoolers. So my vote is middle school.

6. What is the lamest treat you received?
Yep, I'm with Em. Pennies? Seriously?

7. Any other traditions on Oct.31?
Since we've had kids we've tried to get them involved in the evening by passing out candy and trying to go around the block with a group of family or friends. This year it's off to grandma & grandpa's house. Pretty sure that grandpa will have them halfway across the state beggin' for candy. When we were kids I do remember bobbing for apples, too. My dad would always wear the same old green army coat (because it is always cold and yucky on the big day around here), and have us running from house to house. One hard and fast rule was to say the 'trick or treat' mantra and end with a big thank you. A couple of years ago we had an adult Halloween party that was a total blast (at least I thought so!). We haven't returned to that tradition yet, but I'd love to see my friends in costume again!

8. What costumes will be present in your family this fall?
Josh...a magician (cape=6$, hat=in the basement, bunny to pull from the hat=in his room)
Ellie...snow fairy (outfit+wings=3$ at the resale shop)
Owen...a lion (outfit=0$, old one of Josh's)
A cheap Halloween...priceless!

9. Favorite Halloween or fall movie?
I love the Charlie Brown specials. I am NOT a fan of any scary movies. I have a very active imagination and those movies stick with me.

10. Any funny Halloween stories?
I loved last year's costumes and the excitement it brought to the house. Plus, this chili pepper makes me laugh.

Friday Fun

2008-10-17T13:54:00.006-05:00

I love words. It kinda comes with the territory of being a teacher, I guess. So when two of my sisters-in-law put up some cute new sayings in their homes...I was hooked.

I'm pretty sure I could put up one saying in every room of my house, they are so darn cute. Maybe a little overkill? Nah. Who couldn't use a little writing on the wall nowadays?

They're the latest thing (or at least I'm finally clueing into this trend)...wall stickers. They remove easily so if you outgrow your saying, no damage done. I found so many websites selling premade quotes, designs, even whole wall murals. In the end, I supported my local Hobb.y Lobb.y and bought the alphabet pack to put this saying together myself. I had to improvise a bit, because I ran out of the letter "r." (Thank goodness that the "n" and a "u" could be fudged a bit to provide worthy substitutes.) I was even able to change a couple of lowercase letter "t's" into side swirlies. (that's the technical term, ya'll)

I haven't done many house decorating improvements in a long time, so this one felt really good. I love how little things like this can really make a house a home.

What's next? What would you do?

Overheard

2008-10-16T08:43:00.002-05:00

From a discussion about families:

Mom: So would you like to be a mommy someday, Elle?

Ellie: Yes. (and after some thought) Or a person.

Oh Dear. Moms...animal, mineral or vegetable?

FYI....

2008-10-13T12:55:00.001-05:00

Nail polish remover takes permanent marker off kitchen tables.

*sigh*

And, yes. I AM watching my children. Most of the time.

Unfortunately, I am watching them run amuck.

Teehee.

This is what happens when I check blogs....

2008-10-10T11:13:00.002-05:00

ps. The child is actually saying "Cheese." So much for getting in trouble, eh?

Let's Get Physical!

2008-10-10T08:28:00.003-05:00

In recognition for a decade of service to my school district, I received a gift card to an online store. It offered a variety of gifts and ideas. After much scrutiny I landed on the big pink exercise ball. I had wanted one for a while, plus the purchase would also bring a donation to the breas.t cancer research, so I went for it.

Let's just say that I haven't exactly been able to get it away from these little munchkins long enough to see what it can do. Oh well, I'm sure I'm burning enough calories laughing at each one of them bouncing off the ball, over the ball and occasionally, under the ball.

Oh, and these too...

2008-10-10T08:24:00.004-05:00

Roses are red,

Violets are blue,

We said "no presents",

But somehow, you knew.

Flash Forward

2008-10-10T08:09:00.003-05:00

Apparently, this is the Hubs and me about 30 years from now.
(At least, according to the card I got from my darling man for my birthday).

I love this card because it hits the nail on the head, or, at least the back of someone's head.
Here's why:

One: We do like to have fun around here.

Two: I do own a garden hose and ain't afraid to use it.

Three: Although most of his written words stay hidden in my heart, the Hubs' words of encouragement about finding the fun in the daily craziness ring so true. He is my encourager, my sounding post, and my best friend.

Thanks, dear, for the giggle. I love you.

Happy Birthday!

2008-10-08T14:33:00.002-05:00

Today I celebrate my birthday. The number is not a major one, and most likely the day will pass by with little pomp and circumstance. I even got to spend some time at the DM.V today, checking my vision, testing my written skills on the rules of the road and taking, yet another, horrible picture for my license. It was still time well spent, Owen was along and we bonded over our time waiting in lines. Not much is planned for celebrating, in fact, Josh has soccer tonight and that means a disjointed dinner schedule, too.

I don't have any grand thoughts or sayings to make you think how mature I am for my age. In fact, I'm sure that not only does having children take brain cells away, but also age is beginning to take it's toll on my memory, wit and all around conversation abilities!

So, here's to my birthday and another notch on the wall!

My own Milestone

2008-09-25T14:45:00.003-05:00

We celebrate our kiddos milestones, so I figured my own such step should be noted.

I sold all my maternity clothes.

Woohoo!

Now for my dear friends who are still longing and anticipating more little ones in their homes, do not take this post the wrong way. And Mom, I know you think that as soon as I get rid of these clothes something will happen, but I am SO glad to get rid of those clothes.

I actually really liked being pregnant. There was instant attention and affection doled out wherever you went. I felt good, ate well, and, for the most part, slept like a log. I eagerly anticipated wearing maternity clothes to signal to all those who were wondering that "YES! I am pregnant!" It brought out stories from loved ones to strangers that told of each maladventure that afflicted them to sweet moments of first kicks to the pains of labor.

But now I'm glad to know that we're done. Our Party is complete with the three blessings that run our halls and hearts. A friend once told me that she knew she was done when she held someone else's baby and her uter.us didn't cry out for more. I can totally understand. It won't keep me from holding and swaying with those little ones; but, I know we're done.

It was odd as I sat and priced the various clothes items to send to the resale. Different pieces held different memories. Some I remember wearing and thinking, "I'll only be able to wear this a few times, whew, it's tight," or "Oh my goodness, I look like I'm wearing a tent." I remember what I wore to the baby shower my church threw for us as we anticipated Josh's arrival. I remembered buying items when I was pregnant with Owen, even through I knew this was the only pregnancy I'd wear them for. There were even a few that I wished I had in "regular" clothes. I could see how the styles had changed in the 7+ years between all the pregnancies...from big prints and big shirts to solids and skin tight.

I hope that someone finds good use for these gems. I sent them to Josh's school resale and I have yet to hear how much actually sold or how much was left over and donated to the official resale store. Either way I suppose they will all go to someone who needs them.

As with any milestone I seem to always hear a line from Mary Pop.pins go through my head. It's right before they jump into the sidewalk chalk drawings of that goofy Bert fellow.

"Now hold hands and ...JUMP!"

I guess with this milestone I have plenty of hands to hold already.

It's a Je.ep thing...

2008-09-25T14:28:00.005-05:00

Riding home from the bus stop the other day I noticed we were following a rather rugged looking Je.ep Wran.gler. Ever since we owned one of these "off-road is calling you" vehicles, I like to check them out as we see them tooling down the road in our current family van. (read: me missing Je.ep vehicle that was ours B.C. ~before children~now we have a different kind of adventure in it's replacement).

I read the sticker that was splayed across the back of the vehicle..."It's a Je.ep thing, you wouldn't understand." This particular dirty red Je.ep,was "jacked up." I mean this vehicle had monster tires, and was lifted at least two feet above the normal clearance for any vehicle. I began to think how cool it was to have one of these trailblazers when I noticed something else.

The license plate.

It had a handicap symbol on it.

I'll let that sink in.

Setting aside the feelings I already have for those who take advantage of the handicap parking spaces, I began to steam. Well, maybe there is a good reason for it, I thought. Maybe they were handicap and then through intense therapy and the Lord's blessing they currently are able to scale small buildings such as this Je.ep in front of me. Or maybe they give their sweet handicap grandmother rides so often (you know, by hoisting her through an elaborate pulley system into the passenger side) that they were able to qualify.

Whatever the reasoning, it gave my mind something to ponder. I even tried to take a picture with my camera phone, but alas, safe driving prevailed and it was not a success.

So I guess, in the end, it is a Je.ep thing, and I definitely don't understand.

Perpetual Motion

2008-09-19T21:35:00.002-05:00

When I was in junior high (that's what they called it in the ol' days before it was middle school), I had science with Mr. DJ. He was an older man who we loved dearly, mostly because he tried hard to make it a fun class, even though he often was made fun of for his chalked front pant pockets (from writing on a blackboard...remember those?).

The most memorable class for me came when he pulled out an old bike tire with handles on either side of the center of the spokes. He set out one of those tall stools that spins. He asked for a volunteer, and then proceeded to ask the young man (you knew it had to be a guy) to hold the wheel out in front of himself and not keep his feet on the foot rest. Mr. DJ gave that wheel a good spin and asked the boy to tilt it slightly one way. He did. And proceeded to move in the opposite direction that he had tilted the wheel. Mr. DJ asked the boy to tilt it the other way. Slowly, the boy stopped moving in his current direction and soon he was spinning around in the other direction. The whole thing was fascinating to watch, especially because the boy's face began to show the wear of suspending a spinning wheel in the air. What the scientific force Mr. DJ was trying to teach us is actually not part of my memory. (if you're out there, sir, maybe a refresher course?)

This is the picture that came into my head today as I vacuumed the kitchen floor. (oddly, my most interesting blog ideas come while I'm vacuuming.)

I am the poor young man (minus the pimples and oddly proportioned body...whoops, maybe that last one). My days are continually in motion. I am continually in motion. Many days feel as if I am trying to go one way, and an uncontrollable force is pushing me another way. Although I do make a conscience effort to stop my own motion and spend quality time with my kiddos, we're still moving. (oh yeah, we have preschoolers and toddlers) As I muddled through these thoughts and the crumbs on the kitchen floor, I realized...I actually am ok with the motion. I worked through my recent days and thought...in the midst of the busyness, there has been many wonderful moments shared with each of my kids, the Hubs and even a few nice moments to myself.

This is life now. Busy, with a healthy side of blessings. The moments of quiet times with myself and the Hubs will come someday. To wish these days away would show an ungrateful spirit to the Lord who gives them to us.

So, bring on the spin. Bring on the motion. I may falter in my ability to hold up the wheel, but that is what faith, friends and family are for.

(Miss you all, dear friends that I haven't spoken to in a while!)

Omnipresent or Church by committee?

2008-09-14T20:00:00.002-05:00

On the way to church this morning, Josh asked a great question.

J: "Mom, how does God go to all the churches, if they are all meeting at the same time?"

(insert jaw drop and quick theological search)

Me: "Well, you know how God can hear everyone's prayers all the time, anywhere in the world? It's kind of like that, but He hears and sees everyone worshipping and praising Him at the same time, too."

J: "Oh, Ok. I thought maybe He went to some and then the angels went to the others and came back and told him about it afterwards."

I love that this is what he's thinking about on the way to church. Of course, I do have to say it was short-lived. Cars creating huge rooster tail-like splashes through water on the roads totally wins over theology for all boys about his age.

Happy Sunday, friends, I hope you all stayed dry and safe this weekend.

Our Own Stair "Master"

2008-09-11T08:18:00.003-05:00

(Insert Bill.Curtis-esque voice over)

Pictured here in his natural habit, the brave youngest one of the Party has mastered....

the Stairs.

Although this little one had mastered the vertical challenge of this mountain-like adventure long ago, the descent had proven difficult until today. Giggles of glee over his accomplishment can be heard throughout the house, often used as a pseudo-warning for the mother of the Party, who can often be seen running to him to guide the little one down his newfound playground. No longer can the mother of the Party assume he will stop at the top of the stairs. Although this causes concern for the mother, she still takes joy in the fact that this little one has conquered yet another milestone.

"One small step for man...."

Wordless Wednesday-The State of the Driveway

2008-09-10T18:02:00.004-05:00

(Because I'm terrible at a true "wordless" anything...let me explain...)

This is what a neighbor girl drew on our driveway yesterday. It is the length of our driveway and seems to have some defining gender parts. Needless to say we will not be hanging out too much with that little one without supervision, and the driveway will be getting a bath. ASAP.

Another one flies the coop

2008-09-05T13:19:00.004-05:00

I just dropped off my dear not-so-little-anymore Ellie at preschool. The girl was beyond excited. She hopped in the van with confidence, and clarified that I was going to leave her there at school, and then Owen and I would be going home. When we arrived at her classroom, which, oddly is the same room that Josh had...different teacher, she barely stopped to pose for a picture. You can see her ready to get into the fun in the second shot here.

I didn't get a hug, or even a big goodbye.

As I walked back to the van with just Owen on my hip, I felt surprisingly light and happy. How wonderful to have a confident young lady in our house who is ready to take on new adventures. I can't wait to see her and hear all about her first day.

Go get 'em, girl!

Overheard

2008-09-03T15:56:00.003-05:00

Ellie: Mom, could you close my window? I'm getting cold.

Me: Yes!

(Come, dear Fall, Come!)

Ps. Here is a picture of Ellie that we will be bringing into her new preschool class to add to their board of other cuties starting their adventure into the big ol' world of school!

Things I'm doing lately...

2008-08-28T14:32:00.003-05:00

Explaining to Ellie why her hands are "hands" and not "paws."
Waiting at the bus stop for Josh...WAY too long.
Calling bus staff every night to gently persuade them to make adjustments to the long bus ride.
Making a LOT of lists. Mostly house related. Our house feels "heavy"...feeling the need to purge!
Hitting the Clari.tin hard. Allergies stink. Especially when I only really got them after I had kids. Interesting.
Trying to find a comfortable non-sleeveless shirt to wear to my non-air conditioned school. One of the boys in my class is autistic and one of his triggers is sleeveless shirts. *sigh*
Saying a prayer for peace for this boy's family...his twin brother is also autistic.
Saying a prayer of thanks that our children are healthy and well, ready to take on a new school year.
Getting into school mode by purchasing many snacks and easy lunch items for the kids at school and the sitter.
Actually "doing" my hair which is different from my summer look...ponytails 24/7.
Taking joy in little things, playing ball with Owen on my day off today, playing school with Ellie, enjoying a quick and quiet trip to the grocery store (even with two kids!), hearing that "Mrs. W is really nice" from Josh (he actually sounded surprised), getting all green traffic lights when I'm rushing (again) to get somewhere, and tasting the last goodies of summer...tomatoes from the garden, ice cream, and cold chicken salad on fresh croissants.
Holding back tears. These last two weeks have been filled with a fair amount of emotions as many people know the beginning of the school year brings. I've had my share of Kleen.ex moments (thanks again Sarah for listening!), but as soon as the tears are shed, there is that voice of comfort from a friend or family member (many thanks to the Hubs), and the peace in my heart that I know comes from the Lord's hand in my daily roller coaster.
Missing blogging. I love this place where I can share what our little party is up to on a day to day basis. I'm hoping to keep up even though things are busy (and really, who isn't?).

Tooth Number Two, Where Are You?

2008-08-23T20:30:00.003-05:00

Dear Tooth Fairy,

We are sincerely sorry for the misplacement of tooth number two for dear Josh. Although the loss of this sweet little baby tooth was a momentous event at breakfast this morning, at this point the tooth is lost.

After putting it into a small open container for safekeeping, we set it on the counter to be moved to the special spot on Josh's dresser later tonight. Alas, in a cleaning fury by the Hubs' who, in his defense, was not present for the loss of the tooth and therefore did not know of the container's importance, rinsed out the small open container into the kitchen sink. The discovery of this loss was a sad moment for us, but we assured Josh that you are a crafty fairy and capable of many things, including finding lost teeth in the kitchen sink.

So, in closing, it is our hope that you will forgive the loss of this baby tooth and still leave the quarter for Josh that he is so eager to receive. To keep this event from happening again, we are in discussion about a very specific "Tooth Container" that would be easily identified as holding the very important item that is a lost tooth.

Again, our sincerest apologies.

The Parents

**to all my dear readers, I promise not to regale you with too many more lost tooth stories. This one just seemed appropriate for the memory books as "The one that got away."**

It's Back to School Baby...

2008-08-21T16:26:00.003-05:00

Because I'm a bit exhausted from relearning the first grade curriculum in an un-airconditioned building only to come home to screaming children who apparently held in all their naughtiness until I got home, and I have no idea what we are having for dinner....

I'm not even posting anything of my own here. But I want you all to read this post by Rocks in my Dryer and her Mother's prayer at Back-to-School time. It's sure to touch your heart.

Enjoy.

I'm going to go now and become really friendly with a fan.

Cup & Toothpaste Theory

2008-08-19T08:00:00.001-05:00

When we were looking for house a few years ago one of our non-negotiables was this: our own bathroom. Blessed as it was, we not only got our own bathroom, but our own sinks. The Hubs was overjoyed (I was pretty jazzed, too) and we quickly became accustomed to our own space. But I set my foot down on one thing, I still wanted us to share some items, such as a cup and a tube of toothpaste. I acquiesced on pump hand soap because it was such a chore to move that between the two sinks (read:heavy sarcasm).

But the cup and toothpaste were my line in the sand.

When we were first dating, the Hubs would come to my family's house and in the course of time, needed to use the bathroom. At one point, he shared a little nugget of disgust with me about the main bathroom that all guests and family members used. He said he couldn't believe that we all used the same cup in the bathroom. It was just a baby blue-colored plastic cup that sat on the sink, to be washed every so often, but there as a way for a quick swig if needed. In one of my more mature reactions to this comment, I was appalled, and (over)reacted by saying that he thought my family was gross and that he was snob for even thinking it. It became affectionately called the "Blue Cup" incident.

With our new bathroom arrangements, I felt the need to share something small still. So, not only the cup, but the toothpaste became very important to me. He was fine with the cup now, mostly because we'd swapped spit for so many years, he'd figured he was generally safe. And although we had ironed out the age-old question of how to squeeze the tube, the sharing needed work. We would have small "discussions" on the placement of the toothpaste tube after its use, so that the other person would still have easy access to it.

The cup, the toothpaste; it was all very trivial, but for whatever reason, it meant a bit more to me. I wanted to share these things. I wanted to think of him as I put my toothpaste down. I knew that I was blessed to even have someone to share the cup (family germs, my love, family germs) and a tube of toothpaste with.

I recently was cleaning the bathroom (cup, too!) and realized that he had his own tube of toothpaste. While I was out of town a couple of weeks ago, he needed to use something (as I had made off with our shared tube), so he opened his own. Part of me wanted to quickly stash the newly open tube under the sink. Part of me giggled at the memory of the "Blue Cup" and my insistence on a shared tube. I'm sure the Hubs didn't give it a second thought, but as I finished my cleaning, I thought, "It's just that I want to share a cup and toothpaste with him...forever."

Dramatic?

Yes. But true.

As long as the Lord gives us days and nights together, I hope to share these things. Small and insignificant, silly or serious, mundane or life-altering, I want to share them all.

Happy 13th Anniversary, C. I love you.

Ps. The extra tube is under the sink now. Wanna share?

Birthday Cake

2008-08-16T11:10:00.005-05:00

Before:

(note the beautiful sweeping "waves" of chocolate)

After adorable now-four-year-old gets one minute with the sprinkles:

Happy Birthday, Ellie!
(again...we tend to celebrate birthdays all week!)

Turkey Burger

2008-08-15T17:40:00.004-05:00

Oh. My. Land.

Who knew eating healthy was so good? (well, at least the turkey burger part!)

We had these great turkey burgers last night with sides of equally good red potatoes and fresh squash and zucchini (from our garden!). It was such a yummy summer meal and everyone liked it! Owen is a huge fan of burgers, so this went over well with the whole crew.

"Actually Delicious Turkey Burgers"
slightly adapted from all.recipes.com

1 1/2 lbs. ground turkey
2 TBSP seasoned bread crumbs
2 TBSP finely diced onion
1 egg white, lightly beaten
2 TBSP chopped fresh parsley (I used dried)
1/2 clove garlic, peeled, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper

1. Mix all ingredients. Form patties to your desired size. (I made 6..I also only had 1 lb. turkey)
2. Cook patties in medium skillet over medium heat, turning once to internal temp. of 180 degrees. (I used out Geo.rge F. indoor grill)

The potatoes were a throw together type thing...After I cut and boiled them, I added butter, salt, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese and parsley. The squash and zucchini were made from a Kraf.t foods recipe which just requires the veggies to be cut, cooked in a skillet with oil and then you add garlic and shredded mozzarella cheese.

(ps. before you get all proud of me...we're having DiGi.orno "deliver" tonight!)

Letting Go

2008-08-14T15:27:00.003-05:00

I was brave.

It was even my idea.

It might have come from a momentary feeling of confidence or finally resting in knowledge of the Lord's hand on all things, but I let him go.

All the way. Around. The block. On his bike.

By himself.

When I first mentioned it to him, his little six and a half year old eyes looked confused. As the reality of what I suggested sunk in, his eyes went from confused to confident to excited.

As he geared up with his helmet, I tried to remind him of some safety issues without sounding like a maniac. My mind's eye pictured myself running to the backyard as soon as he left to watch him appear between the neighbor's houses, checking to see if he was making it. I heard myself saying things like, "Watch for cars backing out of their driveways, you don't need to say 'hi' to anyone, if someone stops to ask you a question, just keep going..." as he already started to head down the driveway. I was following him. Still talking.

"Are you ready?"

"Yep." I said.

"See you in a couple of minutes, Mom." He looked back at me with a confident smile before he set off on his little journey. That picture will have to be kept in my mother's heart.

Of course I parked myself in the driveway determined not to panic if the time seemed a bit longer than I anticipate, not to try to see him through the houses behind us, and not to let on to anyone that I had just reached a milestone of my own.

As his blue helmet head came around the corner, I sighed with relief. He'd made it. I really didn't doubt it, but somewhere in my "logical" thinking, I could see that the one time I allow him to venture out on his own...that's when something would happen. But it didn't, and the smile on his face as he arrived back home was the incentive that I needed to know it would be ok.

He's been around the block at least one more time since then. He tells me when he plans on going, so I can watch (stand guard) for his return.

Oh, the parallels I could make between this event and the beginning of the school year.

So, I did it. And so did he.

We both did it.

Happy Birthday, Ellie!

2008-08-13T14:20:00.001-05:00

ELLIE:

Age: Four!

Personality: Spitfire, playful, silly, "all girl" with a hint of sportiness, full of imagination

Favorites:

Foods: Pancakes, Hot dogs, Ravioli, Chocolate Milk, Mac-n-cheese
Songs: "Flip, Flop and Fly" (composed by bro. Josh)
Books: Angelina the ballerina
Movies: Monsters, Inc., Ice Age, Curious George, Cars
TV Shows: Dora, Diego, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Games: Cadoo, Zingo, Hungry Hippos
Toys: Princess Coach, My Little Ponies
Activity with Mom: Hugs and kisses
Activity with Dad: Wrestling
Activity with Josh: "Hot Lava, Mario" (their own game, involves pillows, Ellie's bed, jumping, and screaming)
Activity with Owen: Tickle

Now I'm four, I can learn how to: Poop on the pot.ty (yep, still working on that one)

My dearest Ellie,

We love you so much. You are the little girl amidst these bouncy boys! We love how your smile can bring light to our hearts. You are just daring enough to try some new things, but often still look to big brother to see if you can do it. Right now, you are so cuddly and love to snuggle. We know that this won't last forever, so I'm soaking up your hugs. This will be a big year for you...preschool! You will have so much fun, and have no problem making new friends! We love who you are and what you mean to our family. Happy Birthday, big girl!

Hugs,

Mommy

Oxi.clean to the Rescue...again

2008-08-13T11:39:00.005-05:00

My dear daughter tried out her drawing skills on our dining room table.

In pen.

I was waffling between chalking this up to another "cute" story to tell when guests would come over and goog.ling "how to remove pen from faux leather" (yep, we go super fancy-like here, nothing but the best), when I thought...

Oxi.Clean?

Could it do it?

After just a few moments of working on that stain, the blue masterpiece came off the tabletop. Amazing. I've found my go-to stain remover. I'm sure these kiddos will give me plenty of opportunities to put it to the test.

ps. I love these stories, because someday I'll look back and say, "And where was I when this was going on?" Today, the answer was...on the phone, just about five steps away. Banner parenting happening here, ladies. Don't sign me up for Mother of the Year just yet. *wink*

Friday Foto

2008-08-08T15:41:00.003-05:00

"The heavens declare His righteousness, and all the people see His glory."

Ps. 97:6

This photo was taken from our house, just a couple of days before the skies looked awfully different. A small tornado hit our town. It landed about half of a mile east of our house.

Happy Anniversary!

2008-08-07T14:46:00.000-05:00

These are the dear people we have spent most of our time with in the last two weeks. We vacationed and then finalized our planning for the big 40th annversary party for my husband's parents. (they're the cute couple in the middle with a lapful of grandkids!)

Still fresh in my mind today is the joyous party we had on Saturday. Extensive planning aside, it was an occasion that was one of the best events of our summer. We held the party at our church's new ministry center. There is a large fireside room that held our guests very well. The guys grilled up some super tasty chicken and steak kabobs, while we set out the potato-green bean salad (fresh from my SIL's garden) and the strawberry spinach salad. The meal was topped off by amazing desserts made my hero in the kitchen, my dear friend Ann. In between all the delightful food stuffs, we saw many of my in-law's friends chatting it up, and reminiscing over cards on the tables which told of the top ten movies, songs, events and costs of living in the year 1968.

The evening got a bit raukus when we played the game, "How well do you know them?" After realizing that some tables were beefing up their scores a bit, we judged this fun event a success for all, and headed for desserts.

My dearest Hubs created an amazing masterpiece of photos set to some of his parents' favorite songs. Tears were shed, laughter at past hair-do's and glasses, and sighs of memories gone by were seen and hear throughout the room. It was an extremely meaningful event for all who attended, and I was so glad just to be a part of it.

Happy 40th Anniversary, Mom and Dad!

Summer Breeze

2008-08-07T14:17:00.004-05:00

This is the window in Josh's room today. The curtain is caught by the breeze, blowing in random waves. The house smells fresh and open. I love the days when God reminds us of His creation. This breeze brings the outdoors in, and I adore it. I hear the taps of the blind pulls and squeaks of doors being pushed and pulled from cross breezes throughout the house. I love it. It's as if our house is just a little bit alive and swaying with the gentle breeze, too.
Deep breath.
Sigh.
Love it.

This smile belongs to...

2008-08-06T13:06:00.004-05:00

A boy who just lost his first tooth!
Congratulations, Josh!
(hard to see the actual spot because it's on the bottom, in the front)

After a couple weeks of little wiggles here and there, much reassurance about the shortness of the duration of pain, and encouragement about compensation from the Tooth Fairy, I was able to pull it out today at lunch after a big bite of grilled cheese.

Ps. Dear friends, what is your family policy on the Tooth Fairy? How much is she forking over for these tiny pieces of babyhood nowadays?

Magnet Update

2008-08-06T08:11:00.003-05:00

Remember these?

Well, apparently Owen's comes with some sort of alarm.

It's a blaring, "Eh, Eh, Eh" sound that actually gets louder as he gets closer via his magnet.

It also has different modes depending on the severity of his desire to magnet himself to me.

There's the one where he's just curious where I am. "mum, mum, mum."

Then the one that means someone has done him wrong, "EH, eh, EH, eh."

And the most desperate, "WEAH! WEAH!"

You get the idea.

Oh, and usually his magnet leads him to one of two places first in his attempt to follow me...

...the office (where the computer is)

...or the bathroom.

Hmmmm. Interesting.

I Love Oxi.Clean!

2008-08-05T13:15:00.003-05:00

This adorable shirt is part of an even more adorable outfit. It was a small portion of girls clothes donated to my SIL and me by the Hubs' generous aunt, Tami. She has been the Clothes Fairy to us from the time when Josh was small. Because they live in Ohio, we don't see her too often, but when we do...the garbage bags full of clothes handed down from her own boys and girls are enough to make me cry. She has saved us thousands of dollars in pants, shirts, shoes, boots, jackets and all other clothing, each adorable to the last pair of socks.

This shirt had a stain on the front and on the sleeve. I saw the challenge, and hoped my dutiful laundry helper was there to bring it back. Oxi.Clean to the rescue! After just two treatments, the stain is barely noticeable. Of course, now this outfit will be shared custody between Ellie and her cousin Kyra, because it will look adorable on both girls. (Maybe we'll have it until the holidays and then make the switch...what do ya say, Sarah? *wink*)

Now my only hope is that my own Stainmaker will keep this as cute as it was intended. If not, Oxi.Clean will get called up for a second round!

Thanks again, Tami!

Lake Vacation 2008

2008-08-04T15:50:00.001-05:00

We recently spent half of a week at a lake in a cottage with the Hubs' family.

It was wonderful. A bit crazy with all five cousins running around with their own demands and desires, schedules and temperaments, but extremely worth it. The kids actually did amazingly well together. Josh is the oldest of the herd, and Ellie and her cousin, Kyra are only a couple of weeks apart in age. Katie is two and a half, and really enjoyed her position of power over Owen, who was the youngest at fifteen months. He held his own though, and they soon found their own way to share toys and attention from adults. The kids played in the lake together, made towers of Lin.coln Logs (only to smash them down), took boat rides together and in all, became children of the lake with toes smushed into sandy soil and faces dripping with fresh lake water.

The adults enjoyed the lake, too, with tube and ski rides behind the boat, fishing trips casting out for the elusive "big one," and quiet afternoons (love naptime!) on the deck or on a raft. We ate well, slept fairly well, laughed and relaxed, too. We also discovered a bit nature in our midst during an evening movie...a mouse in the fireplace. Although very small and cute, he had a date with the mousetrap later that night that reassured us he would not be visiting again. We had a few opportunities to visit with my other SIL, who currently teaches in South Korea. She was in the country taking some classes to begin her online master's program. Although stressed, tired and harried from all her own responsibilities, she was still able to eat with us and catch up. We only wished we had more time!

Here are some pictures of our lake adventure!

Grandpa and his boys

The girls... soaking up some sunshine.

He jumps and...

splash!!
(These inflatable islands were the best thing about being in the lake for the kids. The next photo shows how one of them had an opening on one side with netting underneath. The kids could jump in it, be caught by the net, but still make a splash!)

Kyra, in action!

Josh...just that one more step closer to really putting his head under. He was so proud of how brave he had been. I was, too!

Ellie...She floats! Another new milestone brought on by bravery! Watch out swimming Oly.mpians!

This is in my SIL's backyard after spending the second half of the week at her place. What a great group of kids, eh?? Oh, and Katie is definitely not as serious as she looks here!
We love you guys!

A tough lesson for everyone

2008-08-04T15:04:00.003-05:00

Today in the car, Josh told me that he had prayed to God last night that he would not have a bad dream. But he did. I mentioned that not all our prayer request are always answered in the way we hope.

He told me, "But I said, please."

My mind raced for a way to explain this tough lesson on prayer. I could hear the sadness in his voice as he explained his polite, but unanswered prayer.

We began to talk about how sometimes God does not answer our prayers in the way we think, because He has another plan. Maybe a lesson is to be learned, patience or perseverance is to be taught. Sometimes He has an even better idea about how events in our lives should happen. Maybe we might not even know why a prayer goes unanswered until more time has passed, when we look back and say, "Ooooh." And sometimes, there is no clear reason.

I began to listen to myself. I wasn't too sure the kids were still listening, but I began to hear what I had been saying. For myself.

Every school year start I worry. I worry about new schedules (grade school and preschool this year!), a new school, a bus ride for Josh, adjusting to getting up earlier, making lunches, and just the natural busyness that happens with going back to teaching myself.

I just unloaded all these worries to the Hubs last night. He listened, reassured and said that we should pray about it all (I love this man).

So with my own worries still flying around in my head, I realized my mini-sermon was oh-so-applicable to my own life. Right then, I prayed. Again. It was more simple and with less pleading than the ones I had been praying...

"Dear Lord, Thy will be done."

He knows my heart and my worries. He has a plan. Now, my job is to rest in that knowledge and find peace in whatever His plan is for our new school year.

In the end, Josh seemed content with what I had to say. Our discussion was quickly interrupted by flying books (Owen) and discarded shoes (Ellie). And when I thought about it, I was grateful to see that I may be the recipient of those "teachable moments" I so look forward to having with my kids as they grow in their knowledge of our Savior, too.

Puddle Playin'

2008-08-03T16:36:00.003-05:00

Somebody get this poor child a pool.

Wordless Wednesday: He really should know by now...

2008-07-30T10:23:00.003-05:00

Oh, and PS. My darlin's cute red face is not due to embarrassment, but from too much fun in the sun at the lake last week. More fun pictures and stories to follow...

How Big is Owen?

2008-07-28T14:52:00.002-05:00

SO BIG!

Ensuing conversation:

How big is Ellie?
So big!

How big is Josh?
So, So big!

How big is Mommy?
So, So, SO big!

...hmmm....

(at least this...)

How big is Daddy?
So, So, So, SO big!

I'm back..with my smile

2008-07-18T13:30:00.003-05:00

It's funny what three hours alone in Wal.mart and Mei.jer can do for the soul.

No "bench" carts (aka grocery store semi-trailers)
Leisurely viewing of the all the aisles, not just the ones on my list
Return to previous aisles for forgotten items without protest from said bench cart passengers
Did you know how relaxing it can be to pick out greeting cards? Alone? Usually, it involves all of the new-fangled sound cards being opened. At one time. Accompanied by loud laughter.
I actually was able to fit all my groceries in the cart. Not on top of children. Or strategically placed around, under or behind children.

Although I usually balk at going to the grocery store at night, it was one of the more pleasant trips I've had in a long time. I think the Hubs knew I needed to run away for awhile as soon as he got home. He walked in. I ran and hugged him and said I was so glad he was home. He looked at me with those beautiful blue eyes a-smiling...."Need to get away?" l love that he knew. I love that he let me go. And now I'm back. A bit more refreshed, ready to visit family, the lake and hang with my kiddos.

Getting away?

2008-07-17T18:39:00.002-05:00

Insert whispered tones..

In ten minutes I am getting out of the house.

I'm going grocery shopping.

By myself.

It's not the spa, (ps. so looking forward to that Em!)

But it's out.

Sans children.

If I'm not back within an hour or so.

Do not come looking for me.

Note to self

2008-07-16T16:04:00.002-05:00

Bigger kids need bigger pool

Look who's coming for dinner

2008-07-15T14:12:00.002-05:00

But seriously...

Yes, he's made it. He's an official part of the family table now. After too many months of "asking" my proud-of-his-little-trickiness boy to SIT DOWN in his high chair, we moved him. Our high chair lost it's buckling capacity somewhere in the move to our new house 4 years ago. Not a biggie, we thought...Josh never needed it.

Famous last words.

Ellie discovered she could stand in the high chair pretty quickly. It was more about protesting her containment and showing her independence. Owen's standee status has been in place for quite a few months, too. His motivation? He thinks it's funny to give his mother heart palpitations at each. and every. meal. To his credit, he does listen and sit down after being asked, but after peppering way too many dinner conversations with "sit down, Owen," it was time.

After one particularly trying meal, I made the plan. Ellie, although still a bit short for a regular chair, was going to have to give up her booster seat for the team. This week at lunch I made the switch. I wasn't planning on switching it that day, but it was like he was on a roller coaster. Up. Down. Up. Down. Plus, he wasn't eating much, so I figured, no time like the present.

The change was instantaneous.

Not only did he immediately start eating the carrots he was currently refusing, but he also slapped his hands on the table like a regular table customer, as if to say, "whatcha got for me, ma?" He now eats off a plate, uses a fork (with direction) and I haven't had to worry about him taking a nose-dive into the linoleum from high-chair height!

The look of our family table has changed. I looked around at my kiddos last night at dinner and tried to envision future family dinners when they're in grade school (next year for Josh!), middle school or even high school. I pictured us chatting about our days like we do now...the good, the bad and the ugly. We've relegated family devotions to bedtime for now, but hope that someday they can return to the family table after dinner.

Although, the look of our family around the table may change, I hope the feeling of togetherness, sharing and bonding never changes.

Welcome to the table, Owen.

Good things come in threes

2008-07-14T11:57:00.003-05:00

Don't I know it??

Odd thing too...

We were all weighing ourselves this morning. Note the numbers.

Josh: 53

Ellie: 33

Owen: 23

Me: 1*3

So, Hubs, dare to see if you follow the pattern!?

Wal.mart and internet on the phone saves the day

2008-07-10T14:45:00.003-05:00

It's about 2 am and we've stopped for gas. Somewhere. The kids are dozing fairly well, except for our smallest one, a belly sleeper, is fighting the deep sleep his body needs. Our caravan of vans is a sight to behold. With car top carriers donning our vans like turtle shells and seats filled to the max with people, toys and luggage, there is no doubt we are a group with a mission. We've gassed up the vehicles (and the drivers) and we're ready to roll.

But one vehicle is not starting.

The engine in one of the van's refuses to turn over. Ugg. By this time, everyone is awake. Everyone. After a quick jump from another van, we're on our way with skepticism. We chat with hushed voices about the possibilities of what could happen. One toll booth later and we are stopped again. It's rolled onto the shoulder after absolutely conking out.

Enter Goo.gle on the phone.

My sister-in-law finds the nearest 24 hour Wal.mart. After one more successful jump to the fading battery, and an interesting route there, we find it. It's bold blue sign beckons and welcomes.

Everyone is awake. The odd combination of adrenaline and confusion get the kids in giggle fest that rivals Tickle.ME.Elmo.

The guys (of course) purchase the much needed battery and begin installing it into the tired van. After several trips to the bathroom, we realize that most of the Wal.mart employees know who we are. ("Are with the group who's car isn't working?")

And everyone is awake. We take this opportunity to let the children loose on the Wal.mart parking lot. It's about 2 am. Not too many visitors to this now beloved store, so we don't mind their enthusiasm.

Soon, we are on our way (thank goodness for handy men, eh?). After a few miles, all are sleeping again, except those of us who are thinking the obvious.

Thank goodness, for Wal.mart.

**I'd be severely remiss if I didn't see the strong hand of the Lord at work in this situation, eh? Here's a few things He put into place: an internet-ready phone, a shoulder to pull over on, tools to install a battery, a close Wal.mart, men who know their way around an engine, and the ability for most of us to rest after all the excitement.**

A time for everything...

2008-07-10T14:37:00.003-05:00

A time to peek across the ocean...

A time to dig in the sand...
A time to hang ten...
A time to play in the pool...

A time to catch your uncle unawares...

A time to love your cousins...

A time to love your grandpa...

And a time to share morning chats...

What a time it was.

Home again, home again, jiggety-jig

2008-07-07T13:57:00.002-05:00

We're home!

After a wonderful week of beach, pool, sun and family fun, we are home. I hope to have pictures and stories to share soon. For now, to give you an idea of how wiped out my kiddos were last night when we rolled in after two days of driving home...

(each night I asked the kids what's the "last thing" they want to tell me before bed...it cuts the "oh, one more thing, mom" stall tactic that Josh perfected early on...it's often a comment about what they want to do the next day or a place they would like to visit)

Me: Ellie, what's the last thing you want to tell me?

Ellie: (through sobs and tears from sheer overtiredness) I don't want to do nothing!

I hear ya, dear girl. It was a great week, with no major catastrophes (including good traveling days, except for one visit to the Walmart at 2am to replace a car battery). Thanks for the thoughts and prayers.

Rain, Rain...brings memories of a bad day

2008-06-27T12:40:00.002-05:00

I was five and a half months pregnant with Josh. We were coming back from a family get together through Northern Indiana and it was pouring rain. The kind of pouring rain that covers your windshield with a sheet of water and the window wipers can barely keep up. Traveling on the highway at a slower speed, I thought that we were doing pretty well for the circumstances. I had volunteered to drive the Hubs' truck so he could rest a bit. Our dog at the time, Abby, was curled up on the back seat. The Hubs was saying something about taking it a bit slower because the rain wasn't letting up, as I noticed the car moving in a way it shouldn't.

"Honey, HonEY, HONey..."

The truck began spinning. We were in the far left lane of a three lane highway.

It was like the tea cup ride at the carnival. You could feel forces beyond your control pulling and pushing you. All I could do was hold onto the wheel. I'm not even sure I screamed or had my eyes open.

And we spun. And spun. And spun. Until.

We stopped.

The guard rail on the opposite side of the highway stopped us. Facing the right way. Fully intact. All of us.

I'm pretty sure I was panting and saying something about Abby being ok. Being in the center of the vehicle some force kept her right where she was. She looked at me with sleepy eyes. Then I remembered the little life growing inside of me. I felt the baby move and almost broke down into tears.

The Hubs calmed me down and his instincts set in. He said we needed to move. We couldn't stay on the side of the road in this weather with all those car and semi-trucks on the road. (Later, as we marveled at how we spun across those three lanes without hitting anyone, he would tell me that he could see several headlights coming our way.) He said I would need to drive, because there was no room for him to switch with me.

And we moved. I put on my hazards and slowly rode the narrow shoulder until I could pull out into traffic. We got off at the next exit and pulled into a gas station. There were numerous hugs, a few nervous laughs and a quick check of the vehicle before we were calm enough to think rationally. The extent of the damage: one lost license plate and the tailgate was a bit shoved over.

We called my family who happened to be nearby and someone came to help make sure we got home ok. I had called my doctor and they needed me to come to the hospital, just in case. I was fine, a little dehydrated, but the baby was great. I asked the nurse to let the sound of the heartbeat stay on for a while. I reveled in it's amazing strength after such an ordeal. It didn't know what had happened. It didn't know how the Lord's hand had guided our truck across those lanes, missing all the possibilities for more danger and land us safely on the other side, facing forward, still running, as if I had parked it there, ready for the next move.

I'm thinking of this memory today because we are driving out of town tonight. Most likely in some strong rain and storms. Although my panic has gradually settled over time, I still feel great fear when the rains come down hard as we drive. Ask any of my family members and they each have a story about my fear of driving in the rain.

So, tonight as you say your prayers with your family, please include us. Traveling mercies for three family vans, going the distance overnight, intending to find our way to the ocean by tomorrow afternoon. I usually don't like to advertise our absence from home, but we will be gone (with no computer access), so pray for us tonight and come back to visit in a week or so. I'm sure to have great stories to tell, pictures to show and laughs to share.

Works for Me Wednesday

2008-06-25T14:46:00.006-05:00

I come from a long line of refrigerator door decorators. Pictures, magnets and assorted homemade items have long adorned the front of our family's frig.

Soon we had little ones who have toys like these:

so we needed additional help.

An idea to keep those small magnets from playing hide and seek under your refrigerator or from completely taking over your largest "photo album," try this.

Put all the pieces on a cookie sheet like this:

When not is use, put the cookie sheet in a nearby cabinet. It's slim shape will store nicely on top of whatever nicely organized chaos you keep in your cabinets (ours goes in the "tupperware" cabinet...oh boy, there's a reason for a WFMW post, help anyone?)

The only trick might be convincing your children to put them back on the sheet each time, but practice makes perfect, or at least something relatively close.

Hope this helps someone out there. For more great ideas, visit Shannon!

Lost and FOUND!

2008-06-25T09:47:00.004-05:00

After a rigorous search of the premises, one "Blankie" was found in a secret hiding spot. Said Blankie's discovery was met with rejoicing, dancing and screaming. Most happy of all was the Blankie's owner, a sweet little girl who now vows never to hide her Blankie again. Another joyous party was the little girl's mother whose sigh of relief at knowing the comfort her daughter finds in this holey lovey is safely back, was heard from here to Texas.

Welcome back, Blankie, welcome back.

MIA~ The Blankie

2008-06-24T15:34:00.002-05:00

Ellie's dear Blankie is lost. Seriously lost. I have looked everywhere. The holey bundle of love and comfort has apparently sprouted legs and run off with a pillow. We leave for a trip soon. Here's hoping we either find her (oh, yes, she has a gender), or we can easily substitute her for another warm and fuzzy object.

Blankie....come out, come out, wherever you are!

Baby one day, Big boy the next

2008-06-23T15:57:00.004-05:00

First haircut

BEFORE:

AFTER:

**sigh**

Super Sunday

2008-06-23T15:24:00.005-05:00

We sure know how to pack it in.

The Hubs and Josh went with to my brother's work where they were having a large picnic to celebrate 50 years. It was big boy's toys to the max. They climbed on the big tractors, saw where they were built, and even marveled in the massive power of one powerful crane that smashed a few cars to bits. The boys enjoyed a great grilled lunch and polished it off with cotton candy.

I took Ellie and Owen to a local path with some friends for a lazy Sunday afternoon bike ride. Lazy?... My left toe. It was a stellar example of how I am so out of shape. Pitifully. My dear friends were quite understanding and even stayed back and rode the slow lane with me. Of course, I was using every excuse in the book (...I'm pulling about 50 pounds of children behind me...), but in the end, the truth stands and I barely made the 6 mile path. On a bike. In the low gears. "Granny gears." I am very appreciative of my friends who were encouraging despite my complaining (I tried not to, but those hills! Ant hills? No, but close). I found myself floundering at one point when a little voice behind me said, "You can do it, Mom." Ah, a second wind. Inflated by the eternal hope of that my daughter had in me to get her home, I pedaled. I focused. And I did make it. Barely. But I did. We did. (I wish I had pictures to show. There were cuties in bike trailers and it was a gorgeous day...next time.)

All in all, it was a very busy day, and super family fun ensued. Josh (and the Hubs) was quite impressed with the strength of machines, and I was just as affected by the power of my daughter's hope.

Left Field Laugh

2008-06-23T15:17:00.003-05:00

My dear Ellie is having an issue with constip.ation. Eventually all will work itself out, but for now, we are having a bit of trouble. After another failed attempt that left some skid marks on another pair of und.ies, I gave a big sigh, and said something about trying again later.

Not missing a beat, my Ellie says, "But I'm lucky, mommy, I found a penny!"

Yes, dear, you are.

Summer promises

2008-06-19T16:07:00.004-05:00

I promise to spend less time on the computer.

Seriously, when school got out one of the first things I thought was..."Now I can blog more." I know, I need therapy, or maybe not.

I'm almost two weeks in here, and I have definitely had more time to blog, but I'm finding I'd rather do other things. Like one of my other summer promises...

Spend "quality" and "quantity" time with the kids.

This thought was inspired from the most amazing book. So far, one way we've started this is enjoying a game outside on the patio, under our table's umbrella. It's cool, it's fun and the kids love the time spent together. As far as the book, it's taken me awhile to get through it, only because my little UPS man (Owen) delivered it to a very special hiding place under the couch for the last few months. Not only am I learning more about being a better parent, but also a better person. I love that I have the time to read it, and that I'm taking the time to read it, too. (not to be caught only doing one thing at once, this multi-tasker was also sunning herself while reading.) This book as also reminded me about another important promise...

Remember, it's not all about me.

A couple of years ago I realized that I am one selfish person. So, my hope is to find ways to serve my Hubs, my kids, my family and friends. Along the way, I hope that I will do a lot of this next promise...

Laugh. A lot.

I love to laugh. Silly jokes, corny faces, arm far.ts (a Josh speciality), hilarious blog posts, and animal antics are some of the top faves that get this girl giggling. Somewhere along the way of responsibilities and life's crazies, I forgot that things are so much better when you find the happy side of the frown. I hope my kids learn this, too.

So, there it is. Another list. A good place to start.

Now, I've got to go, Ellie is asking to read a book with me. Got to keep those promises!

Wordless Wednesday~ Spider Kids

2008-06-18T20:27:00.001-05:00

Tis' the Season

2008-06-17T13:59:00.004-05:00

Strawberry Jelly.

Just the thought makes me drool. Every year my mom makes her own strawberry jelly. It's usually the hottest day of early summer and we would spend the day pulling stems, washing sinkfuls of berries, slicing, stirring over a very hot stove and pouring the chunky red liquid
into jars. Each year we would munch quite a few strawberries as we worked. Sampling was our only payment for the day's work. (except that we had the best strawberry jelly ever each and every day for the rest of the year!)

We made this year's supply of jelly yesterday. The workers have changed over the years, but the recipe hasn't and the time well spent stays the same. Our own kids have become pickers and samplers. Sisters-in-law have replaced brothers, and I get the opportunity to enjoy the company of some great women that have married into our family. It was noted that yesterday was probably the coolest day ever in the history of making jelly. The cool breezes kept the kitchen comfortable and the kids outside. Every year we miscount on sugar and someone needs to make a grocery run, and this year was no exception. (you don't even want to know how much sugar goes into this jelly...no wonder it's a family favorite!)

I recently heard a friend talk about her mother who is now passed away. She talks about these kind of days spent together, but also how she wishes she had something written in her mother's handwriting. This was the thought that was running through my head yesterday. So I'm on the lookout for something like this:
so we can have her write down the recipe, record our adventures for the day, and pull it out year after year to do all over again. As the berries get more expensive, it's hard to say that we are really saving money in the process, but sometimes, that's not the only reason to pick the strawberries in season, bring them home and make them a part of our family history.

Tiny Talk Tuesday

2008-06-17T13:51:00.004-05:00

The kiddos are still adjusting to being together all the time and we've had some good ol' sibling spats. (ok, knock down, drag out, screaming and yelling...you get the idea).

I've tried several approaches to get them to get along, but it's like trying to talk to my dad or brothers when they are watching TV.

This morning: (after another textbook sib spat)
Josh: Ellie, should we try to be nice to each other today?
Ellie: Ok.

20 minutes later....

(insert screaming, yelling over some essential item they both needed immediately from one another)

Me: I thought you were going to be nice to each other today?
Josh: We were, but it takes a while to get used to it!

Apparently, some habits are hard to break.

Check out some more cute talk at Mary's.

Happy Father's Day, Hubs

2008-06-13T14:42:00.003-05:00

I love this man. Not just because he loves me (thank heavens), but for the way he loves our kids. Each. One. He loves them in a way I could never duplicate. He teaches Josh how to grow up into a thoughtful, athletic, fun-loving boy. He shows Ellie what a girl should be by loving her girlishness, complimenting her pretty dresses and giving cuddles on the blue chair. He gathers Owen into tickling tackles that only end when the hiccups come or the other two join in the fray. This kids know their daddy loves them. They see it, hear it, feel it and know it. They miss him when we've had one too many nights in a row of meetings, tee ball games or just plain busyness. But they know he will be there for them in morning, making breakfast for them like he always does. They won't know how blessed they are to have a father like him until they are older, much older, but the memories will stay.

I'm so proud to say that that this man is my husband, my best friend and the father of my children.

I love you, Dear, and they do, too. Happy Father's Day.

How does your garden grow?

2008-06-13T14:05:00.003-05:00

With peppers....

And Beans...

And More...

We planted a garden plot this year. We did it last year, but the location was not too conducive to anything but squash apparently. Tons of squash. So we moved the plot to the side of our garage and hope that it will spring eternal with tomatoes, beans, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, and even a little squash again. So far all seem to be doing well, except the peppers. We're hoping they're late bloomers. Ellie and Josh helped with our little "flags" so we would remember what we planted as they began to grow. (My favorite is Ellie's "beanz".)

It was so fun to plant the garden with the kids. We first had to dig out the sod (whoa, tons of work!) and then get the soil ready. As we picked out rocks and added good topsoil, Josh and I talked about the Parable of the Sower. It was such an amazing time for us to talk and work and learn more about what it means to be ready for God's work in our own lives. As a teacher, those "teachable moments" are my bread and butter. I look for those times in my classroom where I can throw in another great lesson on using interesting words in our writing, or how we really do use math everyday.

And there, in the garden, I knew the Holy Spirit was working in this situation, because I'm pretty sure the words I said were not my own. Later, as I thought about our time digging and sowing, I felt so good about how the Lord gives us these daily situations to build that foundation for a life-long walk with God. Lord, I pray that my eyes may see these moments throughout their lives...

Left to their own devices...

2008-06-12T12:44:00.005-05:00

We have a sprinkler. The one that goes back and forth. Back and forth. The neighbors have this great big inflatable water slide that puts our little sprinkler to shame. But, oddly, our kids don't seem like they're missing out. (We'll bring the pool out soon, when the Hubs decides which part of his beautiful lawn he's willing to sacrifice for the sake of fun in the sun.)

We've put the sprinkler on a few times now. I thought, ok, they'll be bored of it in about 2.2 minutes and then I'll have to come up with something. But they didn't. In fact, they invented their own ways to make the sprinkler more fun than back and forth. Back and forth.

Did you know that a sprinkler can be picked up? Oh yes, friends, this is was the key revelation that opened up numerous opportunities for running and screaming. When picked up, the sprinkler became the key player in a game of water tag. Get tagged by the water, and you're it. They made their own water slide using the one on our playset.

Ingenious little buggers, eh?

My favorite part that had me laughing out loud, was when we had changed the sprinkler to an even more "exciting" version...the super stationary sprinkler. This kind is meant to water a small area using a variety of shapes to spray the water in a certain direction. Ellie picked up the sprinkler which was on the half-moon option. She's holding it behind her, half-moon facing her, running away from the water. Screaming. Laughing. Running. I'm pretty sure the idea of this is lost without a picture. (I was up to my elbows in dirt potting flowers) But the one in my head will have me laughing all day. So, until the sequel plays out again in our backyard, here's some fun action photos from the inaugural sprinkle of the summer.

It's all the Rage

2008-06-11T13:09:00.003-05:00

Ladies, the newest facial miracle landed right on my face this morning. Yes, it is an amazing combination of baby cereal and sneeze.

The trick is in the timing.

You need to bring the spoon to the kiddo's mouth at the exact moment they are winding up a big sneeze. It may not sound tricky, but the look they get before a sneeze and the look they get before they "open wide" to eat are oddly similar. If all is timed correctly, you will get a full spoonful of cereal evenly sprayed over your face. If you're lucky, you might even get a little on your arms, too. The amount that goes on your clothes seems wasteful, but the results are still fantastic. A bonus feature is that you often find small amounts of the cereal still working it's magic long after breakfast is over, usually when you are talking to someone else.

Oh, and it works on men's skin, too. Just ask the Hubs.

Summer Buzzin'

2008-06-10T12:29:00.003-05:00

In an uncharacteristic impulse Josh wanted a buzz haircut. I think the idea came from a friend or two who had the cut for summer. He really needed a cut anyway, but I wasn't planning on cutting his beautiful hair down to nothing. On Saturday, his grandparents were over and the peer pressure set in. For whatever reason, probably something related to this, I got really panicky about it. Josh can get pretty emotional (wonder where that comes from?), and I was afraid if he didn't like it, the aftermath could be Titanic-ish. My mother-in-law had a great insight though... just the fact that he was willing to make a drastic change to his appearance was a huge showing of his self-confidence, of how far he had come. So, I changed my own emotional attitude (yep, it don't fall far from the tree, my friends), plastered a big smile on my face, and got the clippers. Oddly, our clippers starting petering out half way through, and the job had to be finished by a professional. Thank goodness...who knows what the child would have looked like. (see second photo below.) He looks great! The smile on his face when he got back showed me how much he liked it, and the attention he's received since then has been eagerly welcomed, too.

I'm so proud of my Buzz Boy. Who knew?

I Knew it!

2008-06-09T14:43:00.002-05:00

So glad to read this over at one of my favorite blogs.

Fire your therapist ladies, bring on the blogs.

Readers

2008-06-09T14:38:00.003-05:00

Teacher's Heart: Loving it

Momma's Heart: Overjoyed

(At first Owen was sitting next to Josh. Soon he got up,
and moved his little buns in his favorite reading spot...up close and cuddled.)

School's Out

2008-06-06T14:34:00.005-05:00

Another school year has come to a close. It's time to put away the backpacks and lunch boxes, the bags we used for the sitter and the all-powerful school calendar. Packing these things away brings a great sigh to my heart. I am relieved that another year of taxi driving my kids from school, to sitter, to home is over. I am happy to just think about my own three children, instead of twenty-four others as well. I am looking forward to saying, "It's another 'Mommy Day,' " the days we affectionately have named for days when I don't have to work. Ellie is anxiously awaiting more "Josh Days," too.

On the other foot, we have a whole summer ahead of us. Days of fun, excitement, playing, laughing and boredom. We've already made our lists...(these poor children have no chance whatsoever to become a person who does NOT make lists.)

One for big ideas (special outings) that Josh wrote.
(note dear SIL Sarah, that the second page first item is "play with rode (Rudy)"
...MI here we come!) The last item on the second page is not a Spa park (although what a genius idea, eh?) but a spray park nearby.

One for everyday ideas (when we're bored) that I wrote.
Not an exhaustive list, but one to get us started!

And of course, Ellie's list, which was just a couple of things she can't wait to do.
Play "House"
and go to the "Beach"
(who knew 'g' sounds like 'ch'??)
Note the spider going for a ride on the surfboard.
The more legs with which to hold onto, my dear.

Each year I mourn. I mourn the year past and the one ahead. I already had my good cry last night. I watched a sad movie on purpose, just to get the tears going, because, so far, I've been trying to keep them back. This year was especially poignant. Kindergarten. Done. Next year, first grade. Preschool. *sigh* I've watched my kids go off and begin their own lives just a bit. Their own friends (at least, ones I haven't picked out for them), their own likes and dislikes based on their own new experiences. *big sigh* Josh is reading. Ellie is writing. Owen is... well, at least I have him for a while yet. Although, from the looks of it, not as long as I would like. I mourn the fact that I could have done more, I could have stopped to smell the roses. In fact, the Hubs brought home some beautiful peonies from work yesterday, so in a physical gesture of doing so, I stopped and smelled the peonies. Unfortunately, that was after my good cry and I couldn't smell a thing because of my now running nose. (*sigh* with a giggle) I've always known the cycle of school years and continue to cherish the break that summer affords. (especially when I see how hard the Hubs works day after day, only to get a couple of weeks off each year...love you for that, dear!) So I know this feeling will come around again. Hopefully, it will get less painful as I get used to end and the beginning of school years for my own children. Saying goodbye to my own classes was never this hard. Saying goodbye to Josh's teacher today was a bit difficult. She is an amazing educator and I want to go to kindergarten now. She never wavered in her affection for Josh and her reassurances to me were exactly what my mother's heart needed. (odd, being on the other end of things now).

Today is a new day and next week will bring trips to the library, days outside and many trips to the lists. I pray today for a safe summer, one filled with good family time, rest, rejuvenation, and rejoicing when those inevitable August days come again.

Welcome, Summer. It's good to have you back.