My mama. She has come to save me (yet again) before this baby is born. She did it with Rita too. I am so grateful. Grateful that the waiting is anticipated with joy by more than just us. Grateful for the extra hands to help and most times just DO the dailies so I can catch up on some rest or just snuggle with my kids. Grateful for the extra set of arms to love on and embrace the kids who anxiously await the arrival of their baby sister. Grateful for another mom set of eyes to see and just DO what needs to be done. I realize how blessed I am to have such a wonderful mom……and to have one who is willing to put a pause in her own life to help with mine. To help so willingly, lovingly, and selflessly I might add. Thanks Mom. We love you SO VERY MUCH.
A dear friend who is constantly teaching me what it means to give and be a friend. This past year we have been given the gift of a friendship with a particular family that has blessed us in every way. Not only do we as parents enjoy each other’s company, but our children are relatively the same age and consider each other “best friends”. All of them. The example of their fidelity in their faith, their love and compassion towards each other, their generosity and willingness to give and serve. It truly is inspiring and we feel so blessed to have found such friends. And we look forward to years ahead.
Waiting. I can’t believe I’m writing this. But, yes, happiness is in the waiting. Our life has slowed down in anticipation of this baby. Everything has become about getting ready for baby. Activities have been considered based on exertion to help move baby out. Everything we do, our conversations, our prayers, our cleaning and daily activity are all rotating around the fact that this baby is about to come. And we are SO EXCITED to meet her. We have drawn ourselves closer to each other in the day to day as we wait. And it has been a beautiful thing.
But seriously, she can come out….like right now and we’d be just as happy. ;-) (hint hint)
Monday, September 23, 2013
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Another School Year
Oh this summer has been full. My goodness! And my absence was intentional at first but then turned into the blog being put on the backburner. I mean, seriously, I've got a million things to do! I thought about closing it down altogether. But then I remember how much I really genuinely love writing and rereading the memories. I always get a chuckle and often times I forget some of the goofy details of my life. And so I begin again on the eve of the start of our school year.
Yes, I know it's early. However, I am due with #5 September/October and intend on taking a few weeks off from school. I thought starting early would give us a jump start. Plus, the kids are actually excited to get rolling again. Yvette is for sure. Hayden thinks he likes the idea (typical boy). And Wyatt, nah. He'd just as soon stick to playing. Good think because preK doesn't start until after Labor Day. We decided to send him to St. Mary's for preK. They have a fabulous program there, the teacher is phenomenal, and since Wyatt has absolutely NO interest in school we thought maybe being forced into a "fun" school environment might light a little fire for learning. Hey, a mom can hope can't she?. Plus I like the idea of staying somewhat connected to our parish school. It really is a fantastic one and I do miss visiting with the teachers and families there.
This year's curriculum choice was not so difficult to settle on. I was so happy with how thorough most of the subjects were last year that we just stuck to the same this year with the exception of math. Math is a tough one - I've heard. We used Math-U-See last year for both Hayden and Yvette. Neither of them liked the DVD lessons or used the blocks or concepts. They just ended up doing their own thing and figuring it out. Which was dandy because I really didn't like how they presented the concepts either. This year we are going with Saxon Math. A bit more "hard core" - or so I've heard. But from what I've seen and paged through, it looks a lot like what we ended up doing last year.
I always like to see what other people are using for curriculum and how they pair things up. It's encouraging to see what works for other people.
So, the curriculum layout.....
Math: Saxon
Science: Nancy Larson Science (very excited about this)
Religion: Faith and Life
Handwriting: Zaner-Bloser
Spelling: MCP
Language: First Language Lessons
Writing/Narration/Dictation: Writing With Ease
History: Story of the World v1
Reading: long reading list
We have the full Rosetta Stone for spanish that we might start mid-year....depending. It is a full year with just what we have, although I love the idea of starting foreign language early. We'll see though.
For extra curriculars, Hayden has been in tae kwan do for a few years now and will continue that. Yvette wants to try gymnastics. If she doesn't like that she wants to do dance. And, of course, if she doesn't like that she'll probably figure out something. ;-) She knows as well as we do that a social outlet is absolutely necessary for her. We've got our round of regular playdate friends, church activities, library activities, and the like. However, she has made it crystal clear that she want to "do something". So, this year is her experimental year. One activity at a time, of course. We'll give each one a few months of commitment before moving on, IF she so chooses.
And of course there is Wyatt. PreK on MWF mornings. He is old enough to give tae kwan do a try this fall, to which he has expressed a big interest. I'm okay with that. Two kids in the same activity makes my life a whole lot easier.
And me? What about me, you ask? Well, my extracurricular will be breastfeeding a newborn, chasing after a not-quite-two-year-old, schlepping everyone around, milking goats, and in my spare time I plan on sleeping.
Okay, laugh. That's fine. I would to if I wasn't me.
Any other crazy moms out there?
Yes, I know it's early. However, I am due with #5 September/October and intend on taking a few weeks off from school. I thought starting early would give us a jump start. Plus, the kids are actually excited to get rolling again. Yvette is for sure. Hayden thinks he likes the idea (typical boy). And Wyatt, nah. He'd just as soon stick to playing. Good think because preK doesn't start until after Labor Day. We decided to send him to St. Mary's for preK. They have a fabulous program there, the teacher is phenomenal, and since Wyatt has absolutely NO interest in school we thought maybe being forced into a "fun" school environment might light a little fire for learning. Hey, a mom can hope can't she?. Plus I like the idea of staying somewhat connected to our parish school. It really is a fantastic one and I do miss visiting with the teachers and families there.
This year's curriculum choice was not so difficult to settle on. I was so happy with how thorough most of the subjects were last year that we just stuck to the same this year with the exception of math. Math is a tough one - I've heard. We used Math-U-See last year for both Hayden and Yvette. Neither of them liked the DVD lessons or used the blocks or concepts. They just ended up doing their own thing and figuring it out. Which was dandy because I really didn't like how they presented the concepts either. This year we are going with Saxon Math. A bit more "hard core" - or so I've heard. But from what I've seen and paged through, it looks a lot like what we ended up doing last year.
I always like to see what other people are using for curriculum and how they pair things up. It's encouraging to see what works for other people.
So, the curriculum layout.....
Math: Saxon
Science: Nancy Larson Science (very excited about this)
Religion: Faith and Life
Handwriting: Zaner-Bloser
Spelling: MCP
Language: First Language Lessons
Writing/Narration/Dictation: Writing With Ease
History: Story of the World v1
Reading: long reading list
We have the full Rosetta Stone for spanish that we might start mid-year....depending. It is a full year with just what we have, although I love the idea of starting foreign language early. We'll see though.
For extra curriculars, Hayden has been in tae kwan do for a few years now and will continue that. Yvette wants to try gymnastics. If she doesn't like that she wants to do dance. And, of course, if she doesn't like that she'll probably figure out something. ;-) She knows as well as we do that a social outlet is absolutely necessary for her. We've got our round of regular playdate friends, church activities, library activities, and the like. However, she has made it crystal clear that she want to "do something". So, this year is her experimental year. One activity at a time, of course. We'll give each one a few months of commitment before moving on, IF she so chooses.
And of course there is Wyatt. PreK on MWF mornings. He is old enough to give tae kwan do a try this fall, to which he has expressed a big interest. I'm okay with that. Two kids in the same activity makes my life a whole lot easier.
And me? What about me, you ask? Well, my extracurricular will be breastfeeding a newborn, chasing after a not-quite-two-year-old, schlepping everyone around, milking goats, and in my spare time I plan on sleeping.
Okay, laugh. That's fine. I would to if I wasn't me.
Any other crazy moms out there?
Monday, June 3, 2013
Happiness Is...
A new dishwasher.
Shortly after Christmas my dishwasher died. I mean completely no chance of revival dead. And right around that time we had some major repairs done on our van to the tune of about $1400. Take that plus recovery from the holiday and I got a "we'll you'll just have to handwash until our savings recovers a bit." Well, you can guess how long that took. Me hand washing all the dishes worked fine at first. But then I got pregnant and was terribly sick for about 10 weeks. Dishes piled up constantly and we were never NOT doing dishes. I was getting exhausted but we still had a hard time throwing down $700 for a new dishwasher. And, of course, other things became a priority over that. After all, it wasn't that the dishes weren't getting cleaned. I mean really, a dishwasher is actually a luxury. Apparently. According to my husband. Who probably actually did the dishes a total of maybe 3 times in the 6 months we were without a dishwasher.
Anyway, long story short, John knew I was reaching a breaking point. It's one thing to hand wash dishes once or twice a day for a couple people in your family. I make nearly everything from scratch and we've got 4 little mouths who like to eat all day long. I'm not a firm believer in disposable things so we use actual dishes when we eat. I spent the past couple weeks expecting to go dishwasher shopping at the end of May, like John said we would. Well, the time got closer and he clearly wanted to push it off longer. We DO need to buy a new lawnmower ($3000+) this summer, fix the well (hopefully only $500 but maybe $10,000), the garage roof needs to be reshingled ($500), the roof on our large steel shed needs replacing - VERY necessary before winter ($3400), and finally we need to buy a more stable family vehicle before the baby comes ($9500). Yeah....this summer is going to be an expensive one. I understood that. And John being John, would prefer to pay cash for as much of it as possible. Understandably. However, I reached a melting point and fell apart Friday morning. It was everything. Just a lot for a mama to keep up with plus I'm not physically able to do it all as this pregnancy has really put some limitations on me. John sat and listened to me, held me, and said, "We'll go look for a dishwasher this afternoon." Really?! I mean, you can't joke around. We can't go if you aren't serious. We found one, bought one, and he installed it on Saturday.
I am one VERY happy mama .... and wife.
Shortly after Christmas my dishwasher died. I mean completely no chance of revival dead. And right around that time we had some major repairs done on our van to the tune of about $1400. Take that plus recovery from the holiday and I got a "
Anyway, long story short, John knew I was reaching a breaking point. It's one thing to hand wash dishes once or twice a day for a couple people in your family. I make nearly everything from scratch and we've got 4 little mouths who like to eat all day long. I'm not a firm believer in disposable things so we use actual dishes when we eat. I spent the past couple weeks expecting to go dishwasher shopping at the end of May, like John said we would. Well, the time got closer and he clearly wanted to push it off longer. We DO need to buy a new lawnmower ($3000+) this summer, fix the well (hopefully only $500 but maybe $10,000), the garage roof needs to be reshingled ($500), the roof on our large steel shed needs replacing - VERY necessary before winter ($3400), and finally we need to buy a more stable family vehicle before the baby comes ($9500). Yeah....this summer is going to be an expensive one. I understood that. And John being John, would prefer to pay cash for as much of it as possible. Understandably. However, I reached a melting point and fell apart Friday morning. It was everything. Just a lot for a mama to keep up with plus I'm not physically able to do it all as this pregnancy has really put some limitations on me. John sat and listened to me, held me, and said, "We'll go look for a dishwasher this afternoon." Really?! I mean, you can't joke around. We can't go if you aren't serious. We found one, bought one, and he installed it on Saturday.
I am one VERY happy mama .... and wife.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
My Wyatt
This week started VBS. Early, right? The schools just finished up last week. I was looking forward to VBS maybe mid-June not the week after school is out. Oh well. My kids love it either way.
So Hayden and Yvette have been gone every afternoon this week from noon-5pm. Which leaves me with a napping Rita and Wyatt all to myself. That boy. Melts.My.Heart.
We were out shopping today and he says to me in the sweetest voice, "Mom, I just love you very VERY much."
"Oh Wyatt, I love you VERY MUCH too. You want to know a secret? YOU are my favoritest Wyatt in the whole wide world."
All smiles with kissable dimples. He says very matter of factly, "Mom. That isn't a secret. I knew that already."
That boy.
So Hayden and Yvette have been gone every afternoon this week from noon-5pm. Which leaves me with a napping Rita and Wyatt all to myself. That boy. Melts.My.Heart.
We were out shopping today and he says to me in the sweetest voice, "Mom, I just love you very VERY much."
"Oh Wyatt, I love you VERY MUCH too. You want to know a secret? YOU are my favoritest Wyatt in the whole wide world."
All smiles with kissable dimples. He says very matter of factly, "Mom. That isn't a secret. I knew that already."
That boy.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Coconut Oil
I never thought I'd convert. I loved my olive oil too much. But over the past few months I've took some steps in cooking outside my norm and used coconut oil in place of olive oil. And OH.MY.GOODNESS.
I no longer buy olive oil for cooking. I use it strictly for salads only. Coconut oil is my preferred product. Not only is it nutritionally superior (for cooking), it adds this rich slightly nutty toasted flavor to food.
Our most recent obsession is asparagus. Our seasonal obsession. We LIVE for asparagus harvest. We are fortunate to have wild asparagus on our property. And for those of you who have had the absolute pleasure of eating WILD asparagus, you can appreciate our love for it. It doesn't come close to anything (even the organic version) you'd buy in the store. The flavor is amazing and I'm lucky if the picking actually makes it to my kitchen. Most often it is consumed on the walk back home. The kids LOVE it and prefer it raw.
John and I, however, have fallen for a baked version.
preheat oven to 450
liquify a couple tablespoons of coconut oil
drizzle it over asparagus and roll it around
sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper
bake for 5-7 minutes or until soft but slightly firm
And ENJOY. Seriously, this is heaven. A complete meal.
My brother stopped in tonight. I offered supper (meatloaf, mashed potatoes, baked asparagus) to which he declined. Which was shocking. Apparently he had just eaten. I insisted he grab an asparagus spear to nibble on. He accepted and as soon as he bit into it his eyes got huge..."OH....that is.....(sigh) good...." Needless to say he grabbed another before he left.
Heaven, I tell you. Absolute culinary bliss.
OH....and not all coconut oil is created equal. Just like olive oil, you get what you pay for. This version is both affordable and scrumptious. This is part of a short list of "subscribe and save" groceries for me:
I no longer buy olive oil for cooking. I use it strictly for salads only. Coconut oil is my preferred product. Not only is it nutritionally superior (for cooking), it adds this rich slightly nutty toasted flavor to food.
Our most recent obsession is asparagus. Our seasonal obsession. We LIVE for asparagus harvest. We are fortunate to have wild asparagus on our property. And for those of you who have had the absolute pleasure of eating WILD asparagus, you can appreciate our love for it. It doesn't come close to anything (even the organic version) you'd buy in the store. The flavor is amazing and I'm lucky if the picking actually makes it to my kitchen. Most often it is consumed on the walk back home. The kids LOVE it and prefer it raw.
John and I, however, have fallen for a baked version.
preheat oven to 450
liquify a couple tablespoons of coconut oil
drizzle it over asparagus and roll it around
sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper
bake for 5-7 minutes or until soft but slightly firm
And ENJOY. Seriously, this is heaven. A complete meal.
My brother stopped in tonight. I offered supper (meatloaf, mashed potatoes, baked asparagus) to which he declined. Which was shocking. Apparently he had just eaten. I insisted he grab an asparagus spear to nibble on. He accepted and as soon as he bit into it his eyes got huge..."OH....that is.....(sigh) good...." Needless to say he grabbed another before he left.
Heaven, I tell you. Absolute culinary bliss.
OH....and not all coconut oil is created equal. Just like olive oil, you get what you pay for. This version is both affordable and scrumptious. This is part of a short list of "subscribe and save" groceries for me:
Monday, May 27, 2013
Waffles and Spaghetti
I was talking with my oldest brother
not too long ago and we were deep in a conversation about
relationships. I’m 32 and have been married nearly 9 years with 4 kids.
He’s 36 and never been married but close (I hope). Usually
the relationship conversations are directed towards him…loads of questions
coming from him. But that particular day it was my turn to vent. My turn
to unload. I wasn’t necessarily looking for any answers or solutions.
In fact, THAT is exactly what the conversation was about. How men, when
faced with a woman with a problem (be it emotional or otherwise) they,
by their nature, usually seek to put a solution to it. And women, when
presenting themselves and their problem(s) to their men aren’t
necessarily looking for a solution but just someone to listen. We
laughed at how different we were. My brother was telling me how
men often times see fairly clearly when it comes to emotional issues:
Your sad because you’ve let yourself go and can’t fit into the clothes you want?
Workout. Get back in shape.
You find out a girlfriend is gossiping about you and it isn’t kind things she’s spreading?
Stop talking to her. Or in the very least, stop telling her personal things.
You’re tired and overwhelmed by all the work you have to face staying home with 4 young kids all day?
Get to bed earlier. Eat healthier. Workout.
You feel depressed and you don’t know why?
Chances are it’s hormonal. ;-)
And on and on and on.
90% of the time we just want them to listen, nod, and say, “Oh honey. I’m so sorry your feeling this way. Is there anything I can do to help?” But men aren’t like that. Not usually anyway. They’ll either spout a solution or they’ll keep their mouth shut until prompted to speak.
“Waffles and spaghetti,” my brother says with a chuckle.
“Huh?” I respond.
“Waffles and spaghetti,” he replies matter of factly. “You see, men are compartmentalized. Like waffles. Everything has a place in our world. Open one door only after closing another. Women are spaghetti. Everything is intertwined and often times messy. Breakfast and dinner. The difference of night and day.”
I LOVE this analogy. Waffles and spaghetti.
Y'all know what I'm talking about?
Your sad because you’ve let yourself go and can’t fit into the clothes you want?
Workout. Get back in shape.
You find out a girlfriend is gossiping about you and it isn’t kind things she’s spreading?
Stop talking to her. Or in the very least, stop telling her personal things.
You’re tired and overwhelmed by all the work you have to face staying home with 4 young kids all day?
Get to bed earlier. Eat healthier. Workout.
You feel depressed and you don’t know why?
Chances are it’s hormonal. ;-)
And on and on and on.
90% of the time we just want them to listen, nod, and say, “Oh honey. I’m so sorry your feeling this way. Is there anything I can do to help?” But men aren’t like that. Not usually anyway. They’ll either spout a solution or they’ll keep their mouth shut until prompted to speak.
“Waffles and spaghetti,” my brother says with a chuckle.
“Huh?” I respond.
“Waffles and spaghetti,” he replies matter of factly. “You see, men are compartmentalized. Like waffles. Everything has a place in our world. Open one door only after closing another. Women are spaghetti. Everything is intertwined and often times messy. Breakfast and dinner. The difference of night and day.”
I LOVE this analogy. Waffles and spaghetti.
Y'all know what I'm talking about?
Sunday, May 26, 2013
When I Said "I do"...
Not "our song" but still a favorite
In the wake of yet another young
couple’s nuptials, I am a bit nostalgic and am reminded of my own. John and I were married almost 9 years ago after a whirlwind courtship of
exactly 9 months. I remember so many details of that day…
morning mimosas
Getting butterflies as my bridesmaids scurry around saying “he’s here he’s here” and the photographer is trying to take my individual pictures
Stolen glances throughout
Aukward moments even
And then the drive to our honeymoon spot - we went directly to a secluded cabin from the reception
It is that drive that I am remembering most right now. I remember thinking that I am no longer my parents’ daughter first. I am first a wife. And we, John and I, were the ones making the decisions for ourselves. I didn’t have to call my mother to let her know I’m okay and I’ll be home at a particular time. It was no longer my father who would be my security…my rock. And it was during that hour long drive that my heart began to shed itself of that child and become cloaked in a woman…a wife. I had no idea what I was doing nor what I was in for. There was certainly a naivety about how I saw our young married life at that particular moment. I smile as I remember. Sometimes I long to be that girl again. Other times I am so happy I’m not her anymore. Well, I am, but we’ve managed to scale those early mountains and have come out the other side with some bumps and bruises but for the better. I’d much rather focus on what’s in front of me instead of behind me. Still, the romantic nostalgia of young married life is sweet.
morning mimosas
Getting butterflies as my bridesmaids scurry around saying “he’s here he’s here” and the photographer is trying to take my individual pictures
Stolen glances throughout
Aukward moments even
And then the drive to our honeymoon spot - we went directly to a secluded cabin from the reception
It is that drive that I am remembering most right now. I remember thinking that I am no longer my parents’ daughter first. I am first a wife. And we, John and I, were the ones making the decisions for ourselves. I didn’t have to call my mother to let her know I’m okay and I’ll be home at a particular time. It was no longer my father who would be my security…my rock. And it was during that hour long drive that my heart began to shed itself of that child and become cloaked in a woman…a wife. I had no idea what I was doing nor what I was in for. There was certainly a naivety about how I saw our young married life at that particular moment. I smile as I remember. Sometimes I long to be that girl again. Other times I am so happy I’m not her anymore. Well, I am, but we’ve managed to scale those early mountains and have come out the other side with some bumps and bruises but for the better. I’d much rather focus on what’s in front of me instead of behind me. Still, the romantic nostalgia of young married life is sweet.
Do you have a favorite memory from your wedding?
Saturday, May 25, 2013
Jealousy Kicks My Ass...
Ever have a case of jealousy that drives you completely bonkers? You
know, the kind that makes you want to drink or vomit. I get that way
with 2 people. And the thing is, the jealousy isn’t even the kind that
makes me want what they have or do what they are doing, it’s just a sort
of disgust that they are so EASILY doing what they are doing. HOW can
they afford the life they are living? WHERE do they find the time with several home schooled children and house projects and such? It baffles me.
It’s embarrassing, really. This jealousy thing. I went to bed last night with the question on my heart, “What is it I am supposed to do?”
Really the question was directed towards a project idea I’ve been sitting on for quite some time. Years, actually. But the answer came swift and sure and quite to the point.
“Get.Your.Shit.Together. You are better than this. You can do everything…..EVERYTHING you are inspired to do if you just get up off your lazy butt and function. This is not you, Theresa. And you’ve settled for being “not you” for a long time. Long enough to believe that this is the “new you” and to forget trying to revive the old. That’s a bunch of horse shit. YOU are better than what you’ve become. You are capable of so much more. You can achieve all that you dream about and more if you just apply yourself whole heartedly. Show John….remind him of the woman he married. Remind him of why he fell in love with you in the first place. INSPIRE him to happiness, joy, and abundance. Lead him (by example) back to his faith….to Christ. That right there ought to be enough to make you move. Get up off your ass and stop talking about things, stop writing about things, stop making lists, and start DOING.”
And so, there it is. The kick in the butt that came from somewhere last night as I lay in bed. So I will begin. I begin again. I’ll take it one day at a time…one moment at a time and try not to get too discouraged.
The dishes and laundry are calling my name. Screaming it, really. “Theresa! THERESA! Get your butt over here and do something about this nasty mess!”
You’ll hear from me again soon.
It’s embarrassing, really. This jealousy thing. I went to bed last night with the question on my heart, “What is it I am supposed to do?”
Really the question was directed towards a project idea I’ve been sitting on for quite some time. Years, actually. But the answer came swift and sure and quite to the point.
“Get.Your.Shit.Together. You are better than this. You can do everything…..EVERYTHING you are inspired to do if you just get up off your lazy butt and function. This is not you, Theresa. And you’ve settled for being “not you” for a long time. Long enough to believe that this is the “new you” and to forget trying to revive the old. That’s a bunch of horse shit. YOU are better than what you’ve become. You are capable of so much more. You can achieve all that you dream about and more if you just apply yourself whole heartedly. Show John….remind him of the woman he married. Remind him of why he fell in love with you in the first place. INSPIRE him to happiness, joy, and abundance. Lead him (by example) back to his faith….to Christ. That right there ought to be enough to make you move. Get up off your ass and stop talking about things, stop writing about things, stop making lists, and start DOING.”
And so, there it is. The kick in the butt that came from somewhere last night as I lay in bed. So I will begin. I begin again. I’ll take it one day at a time…one moment at a time and try not to get too discouraged.
The dishes and laundry are calling my name. Screaming it, really. “Theresa! THERESA! Get your butt over here and do something about this nasty mess!”
You’ll hear from me again soon.
And I’m pretty sure the jealousy thing will surface again.
Sorry. It's an ugly ugly thing.
Friday, May 24, 2013
My Parents...38 years!
I have to say something. I have to recognize the greatest example of married love that I have witnessed with my own eyes. My parents. Today they celebrate 38 years. In those 38 years they've brought into this world 5 children and have buried 2 of them. They have walked the gamut of love and loss, sorrow and joy, suffering and healing. They have seen and experienced tragedy and miracles - sometimes within days of each other. It is with great gratitude that I say, "Thank you". Thank you, Mom and Dad for your example. Thank you for your love. Thank you for your commitment to your faith, each other, and to us. It is because of your example, your prayers, and your love that we have weathered the storms of grief, climbed the mountains and persevered through the trials of married life, and embraced the adventure of parenthood with a willing and joyful heart. All with great hope because of you.
Perhaps those are strong statements, but it is absolutely true. By the grace of God. I am so grateful and so proud to be yours. And I pray that after 38 years, John and I might have what you have in each other......love, happiness, friendship, chemistry.
I love you both so much!
Perhaps those are strong statements, but it is absolutely true. By the grace of God. I am so grateful and so proud to be yours. And I pray that after 38 years, John and I might have what you have in each other......love, happiness, friendship, chemistry.
I love you both so much!
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Green Again
We have been waiting for these days for oh-so-long. Our winter seemed endless and just when we thought for sure spring would come, we'd be hit again with snow. But finally the sun came, the temp rose, and the ground dried up. Now the fields are full of tractors, the farmers here are happy and busy, the kids are outside most of the day, my clothes line is FULL every day (another post to come "Ode to my clothesline"), and my garden is now (almost) all planted. Life is splendid here.
John, my hero and life saver of many sorts, spent yesterday and today raking, burning, tilling, raking, mounding, and planting the garden. He's done most of the important work thus far. I get to plant the peas, onions, and beets tomorrow. And on Sunday (hopefully) the tomatoes go in. *sigh* I LOVE this time of year.
Over the past few years we've experimented with various ways of planting our tomatoes: groups, rows, hog-panelled, etc. Last year was the most successful. We group 3 plants together (the buckets help keep the grubs and bugs at bay) each with a cage and staked in the middle. It was both fruitful and fairly easy to keep up with. The spaces between are large enough for a tiller to go through if we want. We've got 3 mounded rows of potatoes, one mounded row of beets, then the tomatoes, onions, then peas in the back along with my raspberry patch which you can't really see in this pick. I might throw some peppers in there if there is room in the end.
Believe it or not, this is the smallest garden we've done since we've been here. And I am super excited about it. I'm not going to be worth a lick come harvest time so this should be manageable (compared to previous years). Plus, keeping the weeds down on this shouldn't be too hard. (I might be eating my words on this come July).
I always want to try something new and have been wanting to do salad greens or herbs or something. Apparently those are super easy, though I've never done them. Maybe we'll do some pots.
What do YOU plant? Anything exciting? Any awesome tips you've learned over the years?
John, my hero and life saver of many sorts, spent yesterday and today raking, burning, tilling, raking, mounding, and planting the garden. He's done most of the important work thus far. I get to plant the peas, onions, and beets tomorrow. And on Sunday (hopefully) the tomatoes go in. *sigh* I LOVE this time of year.
Over the past few years we've experimented with various ways of planting our tomatoes: groups, rows, hog-panelled, etc. Last year was the most successful. We group 3 plants together (the buckets help keep the grubs and bugs at bay) each with a cage and staked in the middle. It was both fruitful and fairly easy to keep up with. The spaces between are large enough for a tiller to go through if we want. We've got 3 mounded rows of potatoes, one mounded row of beets, then the tomatoes, onions, then peas in the back along with my raspberry patch which you can't really see in this pick. I might throw some peppers in there if there is room in the end.
Believe it or not, this is the smallest garden we've done since we've been here. And I am super excited about it. I'm not going to be worth a lick come harvest time so this should be manageable (compared to previous years). Plus, keeping the weeds down on this shouldn't be too hard. (I might be eating my words on this come July).
I always want to try something new and have been wanting to do salad greens or herbs or something. Apparently those are super easy, though I've never done them. Maybe we'll do some pots.
What do YOU plant? Anything exciting? Any awesome tips you've learned over the years?
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Resourcefulness
Rita. She has decided that she doesn't particularly like being confined. Personally, I feel like the gates are the best most useful quality of my house right now. She seems to think otherwise. Enter example one:
She sat screaming at the gates and tried to climb over them without any luck. She toddled into the living room, gathered a couple hangers, and hooked them onto the gate. Then, the little genius toddler turd, decided to use the hangers as little steps on the gate. I was quite honestly amazed she thought of such a thing and then, of course, I was amused. She wasn't, obviously.
She sat screaming at the gates and tried to climb over them without any luck. She toddled into the living room, gathered a couple hangers, and hooked them onto the gate. Then, the little genius toddler turd, decided to use the hangers as little steps on the gate. I was quite honestly amazed she thought of such a thing and then, of course, I was amused. She wasn't, obviously.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Summer Cuts
It was "shearing day" of the little boy kind today. The sun was out and the breeze was warm. Oh it was wonderful!!!
Bedding and diapers on the line. I have been waiting and waiting for this. I LOVE my clothesline.
And, of course, John decided it was time to start shaving down his own head to get ready for the summer. He likes to shave his head bald in the summer. Personally, I prefer him with some shaggy hair, but he wins in the warm weather. Starting now he goes shorter and shorter until we can count on continuously warm/hot days. Then he'll "bic it".
The boys caught on and decided it would be good to be like dad.
And earlier on in the day John took Yvette on a date that included a hair cut at the salon, lunch, and shoe shopping. Of course she was giddy about it and I wished I had pictures. Anyway, hercut trim...
Bedding and diapers on the line. I have been waiting and waiting for this. I LOVE my clothesline.
And, of course, John decided it was time to start shaving down his own head to get ready for the summer. He likes to shave his head bald in the summer. Personally, I prefer him with some shaggy hair, but he wins in the warm weather. Starting now he goes shorter and shorter until we can count on continuously warm/hot days. Then he'll "bic it".
The boys caught on and decided it would be good to be like dad.
And earlier on in the day John took Yvette on a date that included a hair cut at the salon, lunch, and shoe shopping. Of course she was giddy about it and I wished I had pictures. Anyway, her
A bit "wind blown" for this reason...
Do you see it? John thought it appropriate to use the shopvac on low/reverse and blow off all the little hair off their backs. It was pretty funny.
And that was our Tuesday, folks. It was a good one.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Chelory Review (after 12 months)
After 12 solid months of using Chelory diapers, I thought it appropriate to give my opinion.
FABULOUS!!!!
Years ago I started off using Bum Genius (first generation) diapers and loved them. I only ever used BG after that. Then Rachel started sewing and selling. I became pregnant and thought supporting a friend would be better. I had heard her diapers were awesome and she consistently sold out within minutes of her stocking times. So I put in an order. Rita was born and I was anxious to start using them. I could tell just by handling them that they were in a class FAR ABOVE Bum Genius. I began using them exclusively by the time Rita was about 2 months old. Her weight was just right for the diapers but her legs were a bit scrawny. Needless to say we had some regular blow-out leakages but, again, it was due to her legs being so darn skinny. I worked on hamming her up and it wasn’t too long before everything was dandy. I am completely and utterly impressed at the quality of Chelory diapers. Rita is now 13 months old and we are still using them exclusively. Her little bum can’t handle disposables very well. We’ve tried during weekends away and she always always always comes home with a nasty rash.
I started off with 6 AIO (all-in-ones), 6 wool AI2 (all-in-two…cover with a snap insert), and 24 snap fitted inserts. Today I have 7 AIO, 6 wool AI2, and 5 AI2 (regular PUL cover). The only thing I would have done differently is gotten only 3 woolies, a few more AIO, and the rest AI2 (PUL cover). I do like the wool as it lasts much longer between washes, is uber soft on baby’s skin, and is quite durable. But I’ve found they sit differently on Rita than the regular AI2 covers and often get soiled with poo leakage regardless of how I set the fitting. As she gets older and her poo more solid (sorry about the detail), this has become less of a problem.
With another baby on the way and Rita being only 19 months when he/she is born, we’ll most definitely have 2 babes in diapers. That means I’ll be picking a few more up from Rachel over then next few months. Although I might have enough of a stash because Rita doesn’t go through nearly as many diapers as she did as an infant, I DO enjoy a good reason to shop for a few more. And John is quite understanding about the matter. ;-)
She even has "miniC" diapers now for newborns up to at least 12lbs. I'm eying those ones for sure!
Chelory…THE BEST cloth diaper on the market (in my opinion).
PROS: highly absorbent, no stuffing, extraordinarily well made, cottage industry product (handmade), super cute, extremely durable, no fuss washing, customer service is phenomenal, always free shipping, return policy
CONS: the only ‘con’ I can think of is perhaps the price, but they are worth every penny.
In regards the price, our initial investment was around $600-$650. I kept close track of what we would have been spending if we’d use disposables for the first 6-7 months. These diapers paid themselves off after 5 months of exclusive use. Pretty much we are diapering our 13 month old for free. And the convenience of NOT having to run to the store for diapers or wipes is awesome. As far as having the laundry to do all the time, well, with 4 kids I do laundry every day anyway. I just make sure I set my diapers on at night (it’s an extra long wash with extra rinses) when my other laundry is mostly done and in the morning (on none winter days) I hang them out to dry in the sun all day or I hang them near the fire to dry inside. Not a big deal.
Great visual I saw on FB the other day...
Side note: it isn’t too hard to make your own wipes either. If you have several kids you probably have lots of receiving blankets. Pull a few out of your stash, cut them into 7”x7” squares, double them up, and run an edge stitch around them. My mom made about 40 for me in less then an hour. Another way to save about $350/year on wipes.
FABULOUS!!!!
Years ago I started off using Bum Genius (first generation) diapers and loved them. I only ever used BG after that. Then Rachel started sewing and selling. I became pregnant and thought supporting a friend would be better. I had heard her diapers were awesome and she consistently sold out within minutes of her stocking times. So I put in an order. Rita was born and I was anxious to start using them. I could tell just by handling them that they were in a class FAR ABOVE Bum Genius. I began using them exclusively by the time Rita was about 2 months old. Her weight was just right for the diapers but her legs were a bit scrawny. Needless to say we had some regular blow-out leakages but, again, it was due to her legs being so darn skinny. I worked on hamming her up and it wasn’t too long before everything was dandy. I am completely and utterly impressed at the quality of Chelory diapers. Rita is now 13 months old and we are still using them exclusively. Her little bum can’t handle disposables very well. We’ve tried during weekends away and she always always always comes home with a nasty rash.
I started off with 6 AIO (all-in-ones), 6 wool AI2 (all-in-two…cover with a snap insert), and 24 snap fitted inserts. Today I have 7 AIO, 6 wool AI2, and 5 AI2 (regular PUL cover). The only thing I would have done differently is gotten only 3 woolies, a few more AIO, and the rest AI2 (PUL cover). I do like the wool as it lasts much longer between washes, is uber soft on baby’s skin, and is quite durable. But I’ve found they sit differently on Rita than the regular AI2 covers and often get soiled with poo leakage regardless of how I set the fitting. As she gets older and her poo more solid (sorry about the detail), this has become less of a problem.
With another baby on the way and Rita being only 19 months when he/she is born, we’ll most definitely have 2 babes in diapers. That means I’ll be picking a few more up from Rachel over then next few months. Although I might have enough of a stash because Rita doesn’t go through nearly as many diapers as she did as an infant, I DO enjoy a good reason to shop for a few more. And John is quite understanding about the matter. ;-)
She even has "miniC" diapers now for newborns up to at least 12lbs. I'm eying those ones for sure!
Chelory…THE BEST cloth diaper on the market (in my opinion).
PROS: highly absorbent, no stuffing, extraordinarily well made, cottage industry product (handmade), super cute, extremely durable, no fuss washing, customer service is phenomenal, always free shipping, return policy
CONS: the only ‘con’ I can think of is perhaps the price, but they are worth every penny.
In regards the price, our initial investment was around $600-$650. I kept close track of what we would have been spending if we’d use disposables for the first 6-7 months. These diapers paid themselves off after 5 months of exclusive use. Pretty much we are diapering our 13 month old for free. And the convenience of NOT having to run to the store for diapers or wipes is awesome. As far as having the laundry to do all the time, well, with 4 kids I do laundry every day anyway. I just make sure I set my diapers on at night (it’s an extra long wash with extra rinses) when my other laundry is mostly done and in the morning (on none winter days) I hang them out to dry in the sun all day or I hang them near the fire to dry inside. Not a big deal.
Great visual I saw on FB the other day...
Side note: it isn’t too hard to make your own wipes either. If you have several kids you probably have lots of receiving blankets. Pull a few out of your stash, cut them into 7”x7” squares, double them up, and run an edge stitch around them. My mom made about 40 for me in less then an hour. Another way to save about $350/year on wipes.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
I Am Thankful For...
.....my most amazingly wonderful husband whom I love with every fiber of my being. I never even imagined my heart was capable to hold such love for one person. For putting up with me these past 9 years. For making my knees weak with just a glance. For his honesty, his amazing work ethic, his willingness to go above and beyond, his immense love for our children, his shoulders (I love his shoulders), his patience, and his intense love. I love him.Oh...and his dimples....good LORD do I love his dimples. And his eyes...his hands...his voice...
...okay. Done.
.....all 7 of my kids. Hayden Louis for his genuine spirit and purity of heart. John Stephen (miscarried 11/11/06) for teaching me to love and let go and keep my eyes on eternity. Yvette Mariana for her creativity, her sparkle, and her perseverance. Wyatt Leonard for his strength of character and eagerness to live life. Lyla Jayne (miscarried 06/14/11) for showing me that each moment counts and every life is a treasure. Rita Joan for melting my heart and expanding my ability to love each and every day...teaching me patience (while in the womb and out). And Baby #7 for just being you in this very moment...the gift that you are to our family......we are so excited to meet you.
...okay. Done.
.....all 7 of my kids. Hayden Louis for his genuine spirit and purity of heart. John Stephen (miscarried 11/11/06) for teaching me to love and let go and keep my eyes on eternity. Yvette Mariana for her creativity, her sparkle, and her perseverance. Wyatt Leonard for his strength of character and eagerness to live life. Lyla Jayne (miscarried 06/14/11) for showing me that each moment counts and every life is a treasure. Rita Joan for melting my heart and expanding my ability to love each and every day...teaching me patience (while in the womb and out). And Baby #7 for just being you in this very moment...the gift that you are to our family......we are so excited to meet you.
one of the only good pictures of ALL 4. I really need to take more pics of the kids.
Saturday, April 27, 2013
24 Hours Later
Amazing what 24 hours and a little breeze will do out here.
Friday April 26th...
Saturday, April 27th...
Friday, April 26th...
Saturday, April 27th...
Amazing, no? I loved waking up to this. And, of course, after a full day outside yesterday the kids didn't even want to eat breakfast. By 7:30 they were up and dressed and begging to go outside. Spring is here. Finally.
Friday April 26th...
Saturday, April 27th...
Friday, April 26th...
Saturday, April 27th...
Amazing, no? I loved waking up to this. And, of course, after a full day outside yesterday the kids didn't even want to eat breakfast. By 7:30 they were up and dressed and begging to go outside. Spring is here. Finally.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Flood Fun
Every spring brings some degree of flooding (except last year). This isn't too bad, although yesterday there was about 3 hours of slight worry as to whether or not the water would pass over the highway. I didn't get picture of it, but we live very close to a creek that passes under the highway and ALL the field flooding (thousands of acres) from Fergus Falls to Breckenridge (28 miles worth) passes through our property into the creek which then feeds into the rivers and moves south. Our house is one of three that gets closely watched every year to make sure the water doesn't completely take over. We mostly just have to sit back and let the county and state do their work. It usually includes backhoes coming in to break up the ice dams in the creek to make the water move faster. A couple years ago they built up some dykes around our property and raised the highway and our driveway a bit to help divert the water. All in all, it is a MESSY time of year for us.
The kids like it though....
The kids like it though....
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Another
I suppose it can be said, as there is no hiding it at this point, that #5 is well on its way. Expected to arrive somewhere around the end of September/beginning of October. I’ve been sitting on this announcement for a while. We only just told our parents at Easter. It seems that the more children you have (after 2 or 3) the less excited people tend to be.
“But you already have the perfect family (2 boys, 2 girls).”
-Me: “And another baby will screw that up how?”
“Already? Wow, that was fast.”
-Me: “A congratulations would be nice.”
“Don’t you know how to stop?”
-Me: “Have you seen my husband?”
“It isn’t a contest you know.”
-Me: “I don’t tend to win anyways.”
“O…M…G.”
-Me: no comment
“There are things that will help with that you know.”
-Me: “You think this is a problem we have?”
“You guys are overachievers.”
-Me: “If so, clearly you are an underachiever with only 1. You should raise your standards.”
It amazes me how quick people are to comment on our family size. Comment in a negative way at that. Like we don’t know how crazy life is with kids. Geesh. “You’re going to be so tired.” We’re already tired. We’ve been tired since the first one was born. But goodness has it has been fun! And really, our kids are pretty good kids. Strong characters and a handful some days, but all in all they are exceptionally well behaved. And for that I am very proud.
Anyway, #5 is in the oven. And we are thrilled. Absolutely elated. It’s amazing how much life changes and shifts because of a little person.
“But you already have the perfect family (2 boys, 2 girls).”
-Me: “And another baby will screw that up how?”
“Already? Wow, that was fast.”
-Me: “A congratulations would be nice.”
“Don’t you know how to stop?”
-Me: “Have you seen my husband?”
“It isn’t a contest you know.”
-Me: “I don’t tend to win anyways.”
“O…M…G.”
-Me: no comment
“There are things that will help with that you know.”
-Me: “You think this is a problem we have?”
“You guys are overachievers.”
-Me: “If so, clearly you are an underachiever with only 1. You should raise your standards.”
It amazes me how quick people are to comment on our family size. Comment in a negative way at that. Like we don’t know how crazy life is with kids. Geesh. “You’re going to be so tired.” We’re already tired. We’ve been tired since the first one was born. But goodness has it has been fun! And really, our kids are pretty good kids. Strong characters and a handful some days, but all in all they are exceptionally well behaved. And for that I am very proud.
Anyway, #5 is in the oven. And we are thrilled. Absolutely elated. It’s amazing how much life changes and shifts because of a little person.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)