Our Lilypad Today

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T09:58:00.000-07:00

Today started off with a trip to Sheboygan to drop our dog off for grooming, a breakfast at Perkins and the giving of homemade cards and goodies that the kids picked out for Bosch (coffee, nuts and salt water taffy)! And since we were at perkins, Bosch decided it was necessary to get a strawberry cheesecake to go;)

Currently they are watching (yes, that's right) Bosch play Wii and hoping for the rain to subside so we can go minigolfing as planned (although Bosch would be just fine with it continuing long enough to watch some of the Brewer's game).

Regardless, we are about to all snuggle up on the couch for a while and then play some board games and enjoy a day of nothing planned.

Yesterday we enjoyed an evening of fellowship with Bosch's family (as we do every year on the day before father's day), but it was especially nice as my mom and dad were able to attend. We were wondering if dad would be able to make it-while mom drove to our place from their house, dad was flying in to Chicago from a week in France and the Netherlands...he made it just when we were about to eat (and about 25 minutes earlier than the time his gps gave when he called to say he had landed!) "Good traffic," he said. "Speeding!," said the kids:)

I haven't posted for over a month (yikes, but by now you've figured that this is how this blogging thing works-in waves!). I have no pics to put with this entry (I have yet to download anything on to our new computer). I have missed blogging about a trip to Disney, that last day of school, the start of baseball, gymnastics, the Year end program for the homeschooling group we are part of, and much, much more. And it is okay...in fact, it is wonderful...we're creating memories and holding on tight to them and sometimes we are so wrapped up in enjoying them that the thought of hopping on the computer to tell of them is not even a blop on our radar...and we're okay with that.

Check out this book!

2011-04-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Having a Martha House the Mary Way by Sarah Mae...if you blog about it today until midnight you can get it in ebook form free!

I'm looking forward to reading it and doing the Mary and Martha Challenges given each day!

My new found love....

2011-04-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

I have food issues...I know it and I've decided to embrace them. I don't have issues in that I have a ton of sensitivities or foods I don't like or fears of trying different things-in fact, my issues are the exact opposite. I rarely make the same meal twice in our house. I have a favorite lasagna, cheesecake, enchilada, soup and other recipes along with favorite go-tos for when people are over like fruit salsa and chips and Greek couscous salad and truffles, but that is the extent of it. Even if my family REALLY likes a recipe and everyone claims it as "a keeper" it may never get back into circulation again for two simple reasons.

1. There is something better out there.

2. I never really follow a recipe to start (I use it more as a guideline or foundation) and I never write things down as I go, so I probably wouldn't be able to create it the same exact way again and to avoid frustration, I move on.

Well, to add to my fascination of all things yummy, I stumbled across this website recently. I perused and actually had a few moments where I gasped....outloud...at the thought of making some of these delicious looking creations: Agave Salmon Burgers with Chipotle Mayonnaise, Shaved Asparagus Salad with Meyer Lemon & Grana Padano, S'Mores Cupcakes-the list goes on and on. And, to be honest, the first thing that caught my eye was the site's name: The Wicked Noodle...love it!

I have to pics to add to this post, but I encourage you to check out the website-it is great!

I know many would cringe or wrinkle their nose at the recipes names let alone at trying them, but fortunately my family is willing and able to try new and different things! Is everything always great? Nooooo, I've had plenty of flops but that just means it is time to move onto the next recipe!

It is here that I confess that baking and cooking and anything to do with the kitchen is a major stress reliever for me. I don't rise before my children to create a quiet time, nor do I have a set quiet time during the afternoon (maybe if my kids napped, but that's not happening), so my quiet time happens in one of two places: the shower or the kitchen. Around me could be utter chaos, but once I'm in "the zone" of the kitchen, it all blurs around me.

Add to that that I've been under a lot of stress lately (and don't think for one moment that a SAHM could never have the amount of stress that a WOHM could have...trust me, I've lived both lives...it is more than possible) and have been doing a lot of contemplating and questioning and trying to understand why certain things in my life aren't as I hoped or dreamed or even as I honestly felt God was calling for them to be; well, that results in a lot of baking/quiet time.

Just like I give the time needed to the bread that needs to rise 3 times before being baked and then must cool some before being eaten and enjoyed, God is teaching me to allow that same patience in other aspects of my life. I could never expect for a great loaf of bread to be created if I just whipped all the ingredients together and threw them in a pan and into a cold oven and waited 5 minutes...so is how my life is unfolding...I need to give it more time. I need to give HIM more time. Not the time He necessarily NEEDS, but the time He needs for ME to understand His plans. Thank goodness for a patient and loving Father!

On that note, Bosch has told me he's trying to cut down on sweets, so my kitchen time has turned to focus more on the cooking aspect of the kitchen vs the baking aspect. So, what are you having tonight? We're having a spinach salad, Arroz con Pollo (rice with chicken) and some steamed cauliflower tonight...it is the first time my kids have had anything that I can recall with saffron in it-so we'll see!

I had a bit of sticker shock when purchasing saffron and then I read this on allrecipes.com: Saffron is the dried yellow stigmas of the violet flowers of Crocus sativus, a member of the Iris family. The stigmas must be harvested by hand, and it takes 225,000 of them to make one pound of saffron.

That's a lot of flowers and effort to harvest saffron!

Here's the recipe in case you're uninspired for what to have for dinner tonight:

Arroz con Pollo

* 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* 2 tablespoons evoo
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 large chopped onion
* 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
* 1 cup long-grain white rice
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
* 1/2 cup white wine
* 1/8 teaspoon saffron
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

1. Cut each breast into 1 inch pieces. Sprinkle chicken with a 1/4 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, and cook until golden. Remove chicken, and set aside.

3. Add green pepper, onions, and garlic to oil in skillet. Cook for 5 minutes. Add rice; cook and stir until rice is opaque, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in broth, white wine, saffron, and tomatoes. Stir in remaining salt, pepper, and paprika. Return to a boil. Cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Return chicken to the skillet, and cook to reheat. Stir in parsley.

The Signs of Spring...

2011-04-05T08:31:00.001-07:00

in our home are the first patch of grass, flowers pushing through the dirt, a day warm enough to open up and wash the windows and the first outdoor injury of the new year. That said, if you have a weak stomach you may want to leave this post!

Well, MeowMeow is the kind of kid that if he's going to do something he enjoys, he's going to do it well (his first outdoor injury not to be excluded). Once the driveway was cleared of ice and snow Bosch had pulled out the wheeled toys (Ripstick, rollerblades, Soleskate, you name it) and both MM and PP had been busy with these new/old toys.

While Bosch and PP were walking the other day MM was rollerblading. He has his dad's affinity for the need for speed, so he was cruising down a hill and a bump "came out of nowhere." MM proceeded to fall-no big deal...but this time instead of catching himself with his hands, he used his face-actually his nose to be more exact- to catch himself. He was in so much pain I didn't have the heart to take an immediate pic-this one is about 2 days after the fact so, in my opinion, it looks much better than it originally did. The swelling is down substantially, the road rash is less harsh looking already, but looking at his little face (it is times like these when he looks so small to me vs so big!) I just cringe every time.

We Be Big

2011-04-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

'We Be Big: The Mostly True Story of How Two Kids from Calhoun County, Alabama, Became Rick and Bubba'

This book is the story of how the radio personalities Rick and Bubba made their way in the radio industry. I have never heard of either of these men or their show, but apparently they are very popular in the state of Alabama! A main theme of this book wass how both Rick and Bubba have relied on their faith to help them through difficult times in their lives.

The two do a decent job of distinguishing what real success is (vs. the American dream-type success so many strive for). They are good examples of not only puttin gyour family first, but including them in your life.

A combination of never having heard of these two men and the writing style used, it was very difficult at times to know who was “speaking” in the book. It was a light read, nothing that I read made me question what I’m currently doing in my life or reveal something I should start doing either.

I wouldn’t recommend this book to someone unless they are a fan of this radio show or radio shows in general, as it wasn’t really a capturing book in any sense.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Read this only if you like getting free stuff...

2011-03-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

Sounds like an infomercial or something that is too good to be true? Well, on facebook there are plenty of giveaways (most free-shipping and all). I posted last about Ellisons Giveaways and am please to post about a giveaway once again including items from Ellisons: Piggy Clips, Korkers & More (2 winners, each getting a korker of their choice)!

Click HERE and you'll be directed to a facebook album (hopefully, if I am being fb savvy enough tonight) for TLMBS's 5000 fan monster bash giveaway. First off, like TLMBS (Two Little Monsters Block Shop) and tell them that Ellisons:Piggy Clips, Korkers & More sent you. Then, get to clicking on each of those pictures that you like. You need to click on the facebook link beneath it (to be directed to the business page of each vendor) and like it...tell them that TLMBS sent you. Next, get out of there and make a comment on the picture of some sort...keep it simple! Once you do one, you'll be cruising through and signing up for all those great items.

Lastly, wait and see if you win anything! At last count TLMBS had over 130 vendors. They'll be closing at midnight (Wednesday) for vendors, but you'll still have time to enter to win all those great items!

And regardless if you win or not, be sure to give some of your favorites (hinthint! winkwink!) some of your business...all the shops are mainly run by SAHMs!

A chance at a great GIVEAWAY!

2011-03-16T19:28:00.001-07:00

As most of your know (and if you don't-check out my link to my etsy shop and my facebook page to the right of this post!), Ellisons is my etsy shop. Well, getting your name out there when you're a very small fish in a very large pond isn't the easiest thing.

That said, I'm learning what type of giveaways and such give the store some great exposure. There are a lot of resources right from etsy, but another great way is to get involved with other stores. I am very excited to announce that Ellisons is included in a "virtual" giveaway (simply meaning that he winner of the giveaway will receive each prize in the giveaway from the store in which it came vs one big package) that is coming up soon. Now, who here knows of someone who is about to have or recently had a baby? THIS giveaway is for you!

I believe it is open starting March 21st...but in the meantime, take a peek at Ellisons and like us on facebook (for every 40 likes I do a giveaway!) and then sneak over to Golly Gee to check out their adorable stuff (I especially love her grow-with-me hedgehog dress)!

(Gluten) Free Fridays

2011-03-11T11:01:00.001-08:00

First off, pictures from our "trip" to Egypt, Nigeria and India (ignore the snowflakes/clovers!)

It has been very busy at the Lilypad (things are finally starting to settle down again). We had a full weekend preparing and participating in our church's Missions Conference and then PP decided after the fun was over to get sick. She's now recovered fully and we are starting to get back into the swing of things. That said, mealtime suffered-big time. Between snacks that needed no refrigeration, meals on the go, and not knowing where we would actually be, let alone eat, we were all so excited to have a home-cooked meal! Don't get me wrong, I enjoy eating out every once in a while, but I prefer not only eating homemade foods, but the art of making them.

I had mentioned the Sicilian casserole the other day and have yet to make it-though I'm still wanting to soon-it is officially on my menu and will be made within the next two weeks (probably this weekend as I really want to try it).

Here are some of my tried and true recipes that I was able to continue making once I went wheat-free...recipes that just happen to be gf, that I thought I'd share with you today. But first, i will say that these are all just the base recipe...I add and subtract whatever I fancy as I go along making it...that is all part of the fun!

Beef Stew (just be careful of the onion soup mix is gf!)

Arroz Con Pollo

Taco Soup

Slow Cooker Fajitas (I get white corn tortillas for myself, my family prefers flour)

Quick Cook Whole Chicken

Quotes and Things.

2011-03-07T07:36:00.000-08:00

From Daily Bread: Listening may be the most loving thing you do today.

From PP: Mom, I'm not putting milk in my cereal this morning...I've decided this Monday is a great day to eat all my foods with forksticks. (AKA chopsticks)

From MM: I slept until 7:44 this morning. I deserve an award or something. (If you are aware of MM's usual wake up time you'd agree with this).

And, last but not least, some thoughts from me:

1. If you ever promise your kids that they can get the free cones with the certificate from their Happy Meal as a thank you for being so well behaved during a very wild and flexible schedule over the weekend, have your $1.03 ready to buy a "real" cone at the drive-thru window...

Exhibit A:
Exhibit B:

2. This is grass!!! In my front yard!!! It is *almost* a green-like color!!!

An Amazingly Fun Giveaway!

2011-03-05T07:57:00.000-08:00

What is the giveaway of? Well, scroll down to see a sneak peek!

Clue one: this isn't an Ellison's Giveaway.
Clue two: I like personalized "stuff."
Clue three: I learned of a great opportunity for anyone who shares the above interest.

Click below to find out the details! Go there, click on their shop announcement, get a chance to win a year's worth of free personalized stuff!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/hangtodry

Mealtimes...

2011-03-01T10:31:00.000-08:00

Mealtimes are simple in our house...I have no picky eaters (Bosch will eat anything and that is proven in his love for tatertot casserole, while the kids will try anything and really have only shown an aversion to brussel sprouts and tofu-understandable for their ages). I make it a bit more difficult because of the gf thing, but it really isn't as hard as it seems on most days.

Recently I came across this website and although allrecipes, the food network, Pioneer Woman and the like are my go-tos for inspiration for meals, I'm finding this site refreshing.

Although today is just one of those days where I have resorted to the idea that there is a 85% chance we'll be eating soup from a can for dinner, I have this recipe calling to me. I quick sub of crushed corn flakes for breadcrumbs and I'll be set...even better, it is a make one for now, freeze one for later meal. I should have made this sooner-then we wouldn't be having our canned dinner tonight!

Another recipe I've found, but had more to debate over making it or not is this one here. I'm on a rice kick lately and this seems to fit the bill as well. I like things that are a little unique but still are familiar enough the kids won't balk at it... I will post my (and the family's) opinion on both these dishes in the near future.

But before I sign of...what are YOU having for supper tonight?

Recital time

2011-02-27T07:49:00.000-08:00

MM has been taking guitar lessons since September and yesterday was his first recital, performing Greensleeves and Power Chord Shuffle. He has had recitals previously for piano and enjoyed them. He really could care less if he plays for others...he just likes to hear others play! This was an especially exciting recital for him because one of his best buddies also takes guitar and played. This year the recital was held at the Plymouth Arts Center...a very nice location! They both did well and were willing to let me take a pic of them.

If anyone is interested in taking guitar lessons-contact me for more info or look up Mike's Guitar Studio. I have and will continue to encourage people to meet with his Mike (he teaches out of his home in Plymouth and previously was a teacher at a local music store)..he loves what he does and it shows!

The Winter Playhouse

2011-02-26T11:47:00.000-08:00

As some of your know, Bosch built our house with the help of friends and family. Before we were about to move (hoping to avoid snow-which we did!) there were still a few minor things that most wouldn't even notice not done, but we moved in anyways. The only area unfinished (completely) was the basement.

Part of the basement was finished off last year for our schoolroom, which I talked about here. Although there are plans for a family area, bedroom and bathroom for the basement, the next to-do on the list was to create the closets to store all the seasonal bins and such that are currently scattered on the floor. While Bosch and I went back and forth with ideas for the layout, a great... brilliant... idea came to his mind~a playhouse, complete with a loft!

Now what kid doesn't like a playhouse?!? And being that we're in Wisconsin, what could be better than an indoor one?

So, planning on the "dead" space between the schoolroom and the storage area for the bins started to become an area that I have a feeling will be the most used for some time to come. Bosch wanted to surprise the kids with a "final reveal" so we just continued to talk about the area, referring to it as "the closet". There was one morning, as it started to take shape, the PP sat on my lap and said, "I didn't want to say anything to Daddy, but the outside of the closet sure looks like a house!"

Reason being? Well, I hate to see materials go to waste...we have a decent amount of cement board siding (it is custom colored, so non-returnable) as well as stone (used for the fireplace and exterior of our home) and cedar shakes, so we decided that we would make the exterior of the playhouse and schoolroom (still unfinished) look like a small village! And, if I can say so myself, how fun it will be for our schoolroom's exterior to be red!

There is still plenty to be done on the exterior including the siding and stonework, Bosch making "the" cutest little Dutch door (I love them and had no where in my house where one could go otherwise!) out of a door he bought on clearance for $4 and a windowbox where I'll be putting fake tulips in.

(Gluten) Free Fridays

2011-02-25T07:01:00.000-08:00

If you haven't noticed, I've posted in two consecutive days...that's right, I'm trying to get back into the swing of things. Things have been interesting at The Lilypad lately (that will be a series of different posts that will come at another time), but the days of ignoring this blog are over...for now at least. If you've been reading here for a while, you'll also know that I go in streaks when it comes to posting!

So, I've decided to incorporate that fact that I'm (supposed to be) eating a wheat-free diet. Sometimes I decide that certain foods are worth the "risk" of eating...sometimes I pay for it, sometimes I luckily don't.

Luckily gluten free items are becoming more common on the local grocery store shelves...although I'm quick to admit that I simply avoid many of them. I may have mentioned it before, but Glutino crackers and pretzels and Tinkyada pastas are about as much as I'm willing to purchase in terms of gluten free processed items. I buy the occasional bread, but always end up disappointed (you think I'd learn by now)!

I think the hardest part about having to avoid wheat as an adult is that I'd spent 30 years of my life eating the "real" stuff: breads, crackers, pastries, pizza and pie crusts. And to go from eating the "real" stuff to gluten free was a shocker! Although some gf items filled the void (hey, when you're craving comfort food and want a toasted cheese sandwich to go with your gf tomato soup...you'll take a poorly textured slice of "bread"), many were just disappointing. Even then, I had a hard time throwing away my gluten free flops because of the expense of it all!

That said, I'd like to introduce you all to a gluten free friend of mine. Everyone, Gluten free Bisquick. Gluten free Bisquick, Everyone.*

First off, I love that when you look at the nutritional info, you can not only pronounce everything on the list, but all the ingredients are common place if you are used to baking gluten free. But what I love even more? Well, I was able to eat pancakes that tasted like...pancakes! I was able to eat a biscuit that tasted like, you guessed it! A Biscuit. One of the things I enjoy about finding a good gluten free substitute to me is that it prevents me from having to make either two separate meals altogether or at the bare minimum having to partially make two meals, make some "regular" and put some aside for me to have it the gf way. The Bisquick Gluten Free version has made this doable with numerous meals. My kids and Bosch haven't even realized when I've used this product that it was a gluten free meal.

Now, I know some of you that are out there may look at the price of a box of Gluten free Bisquick and gasp...Let me just say that if you are used to GF living you know four things: 1. it isn't cheap to buy premade items/mixes and 2. you'd rather spend money on something that you know will work vs be stuck with a pancake that should really be marketed as a weighted frisbee and 3. although the items that make up this mix are very common place, they are expensive on their own (esp. Xanthan Gum) and 4. getting a recipe "just right" at home with some simple gf ingredients is MUCH easier said than done.

That said...I'm keeping a box in my pantry for the times when I either have a craving for some pizza, a biscuit or another "old school" recipe that calls for Bisquick, but if you choose to use it, be sure to read the websites FAQ and gluten free recipe listings to get a feel for how to use the product (it isn't just a 1 for 1 substitute with regular Bisquick!)

*I was not paid in any way for this review...it is simply one gf baker expressing her opinions to others.

A day with books...

2011-02-24T14:05:00.000-08:00

I have many traits that I am more than pleased with my children not inheriting. That said, they have one that pleases me greatly: My children LOVE to read.

I recall around 2nd grade really diving into books. I would walk around with a book when possible. I would sit in my classroom, zipping though whatever the teacher handed my way, the only thing on my mind being what was about to happen next in the book I was currently reading. I remember hiding a flashlight under my pillow (though I am positive my parents know about it) so i could read after I was supposed to be asleep in bed.

Things haven't changed. I love to read. I would rather stay up until 3 in the morning and finish a good book than try to fall asleep and finish it the next day. In fact, it has been proven that if I would try to go to sleep I wouldn't be able to! But as my life got busier, my time has dwindled and I haven't kept it as much of a priority. When my kids were younger I joked with some other moms about how I get tons of reading time in, unfortunately the titles Everyone Poops and every book from the Franklin series weren't high on my list of to-reads.

Now that both the kids can read well on their own, I oftentimes struggle with content...sure they can read it, but that doesn't mean they should! Some of the favorites for the kids right now are the SugarCreek Gang, Boxcar Children and Nate the Great beyond their McGuffy Readers and Edcon Classics they do for "Reading" in school.

Today was one of those homeschooling days where I am so thankful that we have the opportunity. Apparently Botany and World History were not in the plans for the day...instead, the kids read for nearly 5 hours. Yes, you read that right, 5 HOURS straight. Princess P and MeowMeow would swap positions from the chair and the couch whenever one finished reading a book or magazine before heading onto the next.

That said, I want to make a point that I am not big on New Year's resolutions, but one I made for myself is to get back into reading more often...so that is my resolution. I challenged myself to read 52 books this year. SO far, besides my usual Bible and devotional reading, I have read:

What Every Girl Wants: The Song of Solomon Lisa Harper
Finding a Spiritual Friend Timothy Jones
Feminine Appeal Carolyn Mahaney
A Fragile Stone Michael Card
Living your Strengths Albert L. Winseman, D. Min.

I don't currently have a book I'm reading, but it will probably by One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp.

When did this happen?

2011-01-19T14:10:00.000-08:00

My kids are growing up. It is inevitable, unavoidable and happening at a rate much faster than I ever imagined. I pray for them daily: for who they are and who they will become. When I sit in quiet and think of how amazing these "little" people in my life are and dwell on the dreams and wishes and hopes I have for them in the future I sometimes forget about the now. Just the other day I was putting some photos in an album and a picture, taken just over a year ago, caught my eye. My kids looked so little, so young, in that picture. It was only a year ago! How could they have changed that much in just a few months time? Funny thing is, I remembered the day that picture was taken very clearly. I was thinking during some activities that day about just how grown up my kids already were (but yet, now, they look so small?!?) It is all a matter of perspective!

And today was yet another milestone that reminded me just how big (and little!) my kids are. Today MM got braces. The first time I saw him smile wide with them on I told him he looked so much older...at least like a 10 year old. He lit up (the thought of being in the double digits is very appealing to him!) But then, just moments later, we were snuggled up on the couch reading-him wanting to sit in my lap:)

I know it has been said to me many times. I know the words have rolled off my tongue to others. Cherish it...cherish it all!

"START! The Bible for New Believers”

2011-01-15T08:05:00.000-08:00

I recently received a copy of "START! The Bible for New Believers” from BookSneeze for Review. Greg Laurie is the General Editor. The description when I chose this book was that “Start! The Bible for New Believers, NKJV was developed to help those beginning a brand new life of faith to place their trust in Jesus Christ while refreshing the foundations of the faith for longtime believers. START! is designed to take the hand of a new believer, or perhaps a believer who does not know their way around the Bible as they ought to, and lead them through.”

I found this description to be very true…yet, as a believer for many years, a refreshing Bible to use for double referencing and such because I typically use NIV, where this is New King James Version.

The beginning of the book had a section unlike most Bibles: The first is "The Plan of Salvation" and the second is "The Secrets of Spiritual Success." These are intended to be read before using this Bible in any manner and are directed to unbelievers and new believers alike.

The overall format of the "START! The Bible for New Believers” is one that is user-friendly and it gives great descriptions of what each book is about (what is going on in the world at that time, who wrote it, etc) in a general synopsis prior to actually delving into it.

I would recommend this Bible to a new believer, someone who is not yet a believer but showing interest in getting to know the Bible more, and those who have been believers for years.

I was provided this book for free in exchange for my review through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze program. I was not encouraged or required to give a positive review...the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T08:44:00.001-08:00

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Cor 5:17). Happy 2011!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T11:18:00.000-08:00

Giveaway!

2010-12-15T06:59:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Michelle Frame! Even if you didn't win, remember that we will do a drawing for every 40 people who "Like" us on facebook (click HERE to go to our page).

We're doing a giveaway!

Ways to win:

1. On facebook? Click here or search on Facebook for Ellisons: Piggy-clips, Korkers and More and "like" the page.

2. Notice that little present on the upper right of this blog that mentions etsy? Click on it and make Ellisons one of your etsy favorites!

Regardless of our number of facebook fans/people who favorite us on etsy, I will do one giveaway (value approx $14) on 12/21.

Please note that this giveaway isn't a one time deal though...for every increment of 40 fans on facebook, we'll be giving away a "40 and On and On" goodie bag (approx $15 value)-you'll be signed up for multiple chances to win (people who favorite etsy will also be included in the drawing and if you do both you'll get more chances to win!)!

"Share" the Ellisons Facebook link on your Facebook page and encourage more people to "Like" it and you'll get more chances to win!

An Update...

2010-12-07T10:06:00.000-08:00

On our dear friends I posted about the other day...their cycle did not result in a pregnancy. Please keep them in your prayers as they are devastated with the news. They are trying to keep an open mind and look at their options and are praying for clarity of mind about the situation, but for anyone who has every had trouble trying to conceive...you know how this feels for them right now. And thank you all for your continued prayers-they appreciate it!

A Letter...and A Request...

2010-11-30T08:30:00.000-08:00

First I want to share a letter from Above Rubies that some of you who subscribe may have already seen and for the rest of you...now's your chance to have this simple reminder! Secondly, at the end of this letter I have a prayer request for anyone who may read this.

Dear Mom, Lighting your home with God’s love,

May God’s blessings be mightily upon you and your husband and all your lovely children. May God keep you from accident, harm, sickness and danger and all enemy attack. My husband prays this prayer over our family every day.

May God fill you with His strength, patience and anointing as you nurture your treasures, {insert your kid's names here!}, the children whom God has so graciously given to you. Each one is a special gift from God, isn’t he?

Momma, you are doing a mighty work. There is nothing greater that you could be doing in the whole of the world. Your work is for eternity. Your children are eternal souls who will live forever. Not only are you training them for the purposes God has for them in this world, but you are also preparing them for the eternal world! Wow! What a mission!

How blessed you are to have your children around you. I know that you often feel overwhelmed, but I want to remind you that in the midst of all the frustrations and tiredness, that this is a very precious time of your life. It was the most precious time of my life. I look back and remember the times I felt “so tired” and yet I can’t think of anything in my life that has been more meaningful and more joyful than those wonderful days.

Don't endure each day, but seek to make it special. You will never have these days with your children again. They are for such a short time. Enjoy them. Revel in them. You may feel that you are not accomplishing a lot each day, but there are years ahead to do all the projects you want to do. But at the moment, your lovely children are your priority. I remember thinking as I watched my children, “I will never forget them at this moment,” but the years have gone and I can't recall many of those moments. They are now all married and raising their own children and currently we have 34 grandchildren.

Back in those days I remember reading the thoughts of another mother and they were a comfort to me. She said,

"These are the never years. Never enough money, never enough time, never enough sleep - but always enough love. The sweetest kiss of a baby the tooth-paste-flavored kiss of a child on his way to school (sadly, homeschooling wasn't in process in those days in New Zealand over 40 years ago); the sleepy kiss of a husband who is just as tired as you.

These are the busy years, the wonderful, hectic, impossible years. Soon the children will be grown and I'll have plenty of time to organize my house, to sew and to cultivate outside interests. I wonder if it will be as wonderful as I sometimes dream it will. Or am I in the middle of the wonderful years... right now?"

Yes, you are in the wonderful years now. I look back on the years when all my little brood were under my wings (or I should say, under my legs and in my arms and one or other of them needing me at every moment) and they were definitely the most blessed years of my life. At one stage I had three in 17 months! That's because I had twins although they are now 45 years old! Then I had four children in less than four years. So I can certainly relate to how you feel at the moment.

We eventually had six, although we have since adopted some teenagers from Liberia. But six children never seemed very many. Nearly every day my husband and I say to each other, "Where are the rest of our children? I wish we'd had twelve!" It just seems like one blink of an eye and they have all grown up and married. That’s why we have recently adopted four teenagers who keep us really busy!

I love some of the beautiful names God calls our children. Isn't this a lovely one? The "beloved fruit of the womb." (Hosea 9:16) Not just the "fruit of the womb", but also the "beloved fruit of the womb." The context of this passage is God’s judgment, because of their wicked works, was to destroy the beloved fruit of their womb, but it reveals how God views children and also how the early Hebrews felt about their children.

Here's what some of the other translations way...

NIV, Cherished offspring
RV, Beloved children
NAS, Precious ones
NEB, Dearest offspring
JER, Darlings
NAS, Treasures of the womb
Now there are some good names to call your children!

Hebrews 11:7 is a great Scripture, "By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith."

For 100 years, Noah did the same old thing - hammered, nailed and keep on building his ark. He didn't have time to do all the things that everyone else was doing. He just kept on slogging and being faithful, doing the same thing every day for all those years - but in doing so he condemned the world. Yes, he changed the world because he stuck with the job he was given to do! He changed the world by doing the same thing day after day after day. And at the same time he saved his family!

You may feel that you are just doing the same old thing every day, but as you are faithful to raise godly children, and build an ark for the saving of your house, you will condemn the world around you. You are accomplishing far more than those who go out to seek a worldly career to the detriment to their highest calling. Your influence goes on into the generations and even into eternity.

Isn't it amazing that our daily faithfulness in the home will have its impact on earth -- and also for eternity? It can change the world! We have to remember that bearing and raising children is a long-term investment - in fact, an eternal one! In a culture where everyone wants everything to happen instantaneously, we must learn to think long term - for the future.

So rejoice and be glad in your high and noble calling.
YOU ARE CHANGING THE WORLD!

Remember, you have the most important career in the nation!

Love from
NANCY CAMPBELL, Above Rubies

Now, there are some in this world who aren't blessed with children. There are some who try many different options to grow their family. One couple Bosch and I know has gone to great lengths to have a child they can call their own. After much information gathering (and overload!) they had decided to take their "best-chances" route to start a family. Although all was successful medically, Jane* still did not become pregnant. After further testing it was found she had additional medical issues that were preventing her from getting pregnant. Fast forward about a year and even more information overload...they prayed, they listened and ultimately decided on using an egg donor and going the IVF route.

Well, due to a number of unforeseen issues, they only got 2 eggs from the donor and this cycle is "it" (the $25000 price tag to go this route is not something they can do again easily...if the donor would have had more eggs, they would have been able to do additional cycles at a much lesser cost). Jane* is going in for blood work on Monday to see if all was successful.

Although there is a strong part of me that wants to ask anyone who stumbles to this post to pray for Jane* and Mike* and for that Jane* to be pregnant, I simply ask you to pray. Pray for God's will, pray for this couple regardless of the outcome, pray for the emotions that are associated with this whole situation, pray for the unborn child that may be waiting to join them in ways they have not yet imagined, pray for them to have peace and thankfulness each and every day regardless of what happens on Monday.

*Name has been changed for privacy!

Christmas Traditions

2010-11-20T08:30:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year (minus the cold and snow (yeah to having a mild fall thus far!))...the thing I love most about it is all the traditions that go along with this time of year.

Over the past few years we have been working diligently on teaching our kids the meaning of the season and trying to break away from the commercialism that so easily creeps in. One thing that we emphasize is that homemade gifts, gifts that perhaps didn't cost much money, aren't new gadgets that can occupy our time and aren't even necessarily the prettiest or shiniest, are worth so much more than going to a big box store and just picking something out. Creating something as a gift for someone requires real thought and effort vs just swiping a credit card and worrying about how it will be paid for later.

So do we skip presents in our house? No...by all means there are things that are indeed purchased (if you figure out a way to make Legos at home, please share)! BUT we aren't dwelling on those things and what we may potentially get. Instead we think are focusing our thoughts on how blessed our family has been and how we can bless others.

Today is the official start of traditions in our house: Bosch is gone hunting and we are home and ornament making is in full swing as I type this (the kids are at an age where not only is my help not needed...it is unwanted). Instead, my role in this day has changed this year to sparking conversations. The kids are discussing and praying for each person or family as they are making that ornament. Let's just say that hearing the words that are coming from their mouths can be both entertaining and eye-opening (kids can be so in tune with people's needs!) at the same time.

A Post-Birthday Post

2010-11-17T11:31:00.000-08:00

First off, ignore the "links" to the pics-I can't figure out why they are showing up on some pics and/or how to remove them!

A pic of the themed meal-stuffed cockroaches, deviled eyeballs, a puking pumpkin, spiderweb dip, jello worms...

Princess P's cake-pizza!

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MeowMeow's haunted house cake...there were candles behind the stained glass windows and door that flickered through!

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We have...make that had...a cake lady. Over the years she has done everything from create 3-d rubber duckies to pirate ships complete with wooden-plank floorboards to castles and the like. We were never disappointed in her creations and were more than willing to pay for her skills. That is, until Bosch thought "hey Midwest Mama...you're fairly crafty...I think you could do the cakes." I laughed and slapped him on the shoulder, still laughing. Then I saw the look on his face and realized he was serious. I couldn't believe it. Then I sent in the picture of what I was looking for Meowmeow's cake to look like and got a price back that, well, was more than many people pay for their wedding cakes.

So began the adventure of making my kids' cakes. Let me mention here that for the past few years we had either lived in a home or apartment that couldn't house the girth of our families together, so we not only had someone make the cakes, but had the birthday parties at The Pizza Ranch-I didn't even have to clean the house prior to and after, nor did I have to make food...I didn't even have to load a dishwasher!

I will say, if you choose to do this, don't combine it with a themed meal that requires hours of prep time...that doesn't make it so enjoyful. Lesson learned. Princess P's birthday, about 3 weeks later, on the other hand was easy peasy lemon squeezy in that she wanted pizza for her birthday meal (and cake!).

Had I ever made a cake before this? Nope, less a 9x13 that could stay in the pan or a layer cake (it was a flop for sure)!

Will I keep making cakes? Yes. I found out it is something I enjoyed doing.

Should I have just made the kids' cakes from the get-go and not spent the money we had on such lavish cakes? No way...I loved every one of them, my kids still talk about them, my family enjoyed them and there's no way I could have done it all when working full time. But now that I am home more and we are situated back into a more normal routine of life things have changed. From here on out, I will make them!

My Baby is 6

2010-11-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

"For I am confident of this very thing,
that He who began a good work in you
will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus."
(Philippians 1:6, NASB)

Princess P is a beautiful girl inside and out. Anyone who meets her tells me that she is so kind and helpful. Anyone who meets her also has to make a comment to point out that she definitely marches to the beat of her own drummer...and they are right! She is a very unique girl in so many ways.

Just a few I thought I'd share:

She has a very interesting way of putting an outfit together. The pictures with this post? Well, what you can't see is that sneaking out from under that pink plaid shirt is a pair of shimmering silver leggings! Also, stripes match stripes to her-no exceptions.

She loves salty foods over sweet (although she won't turn them down)! She can eat about 3 full-sized bags of popcorn in a sitting and within 45 minutes she will announce she is hungry again.

We call her our prairie dog because from the moment she wakes up and pops out of bed until it is time to go back to sleep at night she is constantly moving.

She loves her big brother and whenever he does something she gets very proud and is quick to say a word of encouragement. That said, when he does something she dislikes she is just as quick to throw a stink eye his way.

She is lucky. Now I know some don't believe in luck, but she has won more contests and free items in her past five years than most have in a lifetime.

She doesn't give up. Princess P has struggled with her speech and has been in therapy for over a year 2 times per week. She was fully aware of her not being able to make certain sounds and using incorrect verb tenses, but didn't let others noticing or saying something about it get her down. In fact, her therapist was sad to have her graduate this past week as she states she was the hardest worker she ever had and always a delight to have in her room.

She loves to dress up and get her hair and nails done, but she has no qualms about getting rough and tumbly with her cousins.

She wants to be a veterinarian when she is grown. She plans on working in Wisconsin 6 months of the year (during summer) and then working the other 6 months in Florida because she plans on living right outside the gates of Disneyworld so she can go there often. She believes that her husband will also be a vet and that they will work together-her 2 days a week and him 3, so that one of them can always be home with their kids. Hmmm, Have I mentioned yet that she is a planner?

She loves to plan and count down the days to the next event...having a friend birthday, a family birthday and her real birthday has made for a lot of planning on her part this year!

She has a way with people...they meet her and are attracted to her personality from the moment they meet her. As a parent, honestly, that can be exhausting at times, but to watch others around her, it is fascinating. Just last night she was playing at a park and for whatever reason Bosch and her started a conversation with an elderly couple there and when they found out it was her birthday today the older man gave her a dollar to pick herself out a present because she seemed like such a nice little girl.

The night after she was born the aurora borealis were visible from the lakefront here in Wisconsin...apparently is was a rare sighting date wise, but just as it was rare, so is our little girl. We are so thankful for the gift the Lord has given to us in her!

You may have noticed...

2010-11-03T14:42:00.000-07:00

that this little ignored blog of mine received a make-over. Once the date is November 1st I get itching to decorate my house (we do wait for the day after Thanksgiving for this!) and start preparing for Christmas...we do this in many ways, but one thing we start doing now is listening to music. Since I was picking out some new songs for the playlist here I figured why not just switch it over to this season's look. I know some people get all worked up over hearing Christmas music "too early" but I find it is a great way to start off preparing my heart and the hearts of my family for the upcoming festivities...it keeps us grounded in remembering the reason for the season, so enjoy!

A Book Sure to Stay in Our Home

2010-11-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

I recently read Captured by Grace: No One Is Beyond the Reach of a Loving God. As a Christian this wasn't a book that necessarily sparked any deep thoughts or keen interest based on the title itself, but I must say that Dr. David Jeremiah does a great job following both the story of the apostle Paul and songwriter John Newton (who wrote Amazing Grace). Most of you reading this are familiar with both of these men. Most of you reading this will also be familiar with the Bible. But the way that Dr. Jeremiah takes well-known lives of men and a most-familiar book and puts it all in one place and leads you to open your eyes and heart to what you already know, but so easily forget is very well done. Thinking this book is only for believers? Definitely not! In fact, Dr. Jeremiah goes into great detail towards the end of the book on how he can only provide the information to those who haven't yet said yes to God's love and grace and lays out how one can accept the salvation of Christ.

I'm not big on quoting books, but this book is one where the information and text is so rich that I cannot tell it in a better way. It may just be where I am currently at in my own life that this book was so heart-reaching, but then don't we all forget at times (hmmm...daily?!?) that grace is sufficient for all of us, regardless of our past or current struggles?

First off, Dr. Jeremiah engages the reader with listing our the Principles of Grace: Apart from Works, Accepted by Faith, Available to All Who Believe, Attained by Justification, Awarded Freely, Acquired Through Redemption, Accomplished Through Propitiation. Did that last one catch your eye or make you head to the nearest Webster's? Don't worry...Dr Jeremiah is speaking to the everyday person (so he covers what that means) and more importantly, he speaks to every person's heart.

What is also encouraging in this book is that at the end of every chapter (there are 10 and this book is fairly short at 207 pages) Dr. Jeremiah offers "Moments of Grace" where you are given an opportunity to do some self-reflection in how you can better remind yourself on a daily basis of the Grace being offered to you. It covers topics such as guilt, poor self-image, resentment, fears, when we feel as though we're being stretched beyond our endurance, when we've wrestled with temptation...

One thing from the book that I have read over and over is p131..."Question: Is there any such thing as an 'unanswered prayer'? Or would it be wiser to call them 'unwanted answers'? Yes, there are times when God doesn't give us what we want. But in those cases, He speaks to us in ways that are just as valuable as the thing we prayed for. The question is whether we are listening." This section is a great example of how the book itself is "easy reading" while the content is nothing at all.

If I had to rate this book I would give it a 5 out of 5. It is a topic everyone struggles with, yet it felt personal the entire way through. If you are reading this, you should read this book as well!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Book Sneeze as a part of their Book Review Blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 244: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Eleven Years

2010-10-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

Eleven years ago we said "I do." Looking at the pictures in our album, we look so young, it seems so long ago, we still recall bits and pieces that will forever be engraved into our memories. The love we have has grown, as have we as people, but the spark is still there. We have so many inside jokes that no one else will ever understand. We've been through so many things that many are not aware of. We often sit at night having conversations and then, in a fit of laughter, look at one another and ask the other if this is how other married couples live their lives. Is it all puppy dogs and rainbows and dreamy days? No. But what it is is better than either of us could have ever imagined...better than the dreams we shared with one another years ago, talking about what it will be like.

I wish I could figure out how to download a song i have that was sung (beautifully by Clare and Torrey Zimmerman) on our wedding day, but here is a version I could find version instead. The lyrics rang true then and they will forever...it is a great reminder that this marriage isn't just about us.

Father, We Commit to You

God before us, God beside
God within us abide
God in Heaven, and in this place
Father, we commit to You this day

God in pleasure, and God in pain
God will ever remain
God in gladness, and God in strife
Father, we commit to You our lives

For we know that You are faithful through the stillness and the storm
For You've been with us from the start
Father, we commit to You our hearts

God in pleasure, and God in pain
God will ever remain
God in gladness, and God in strife
Father, we commit to You our lives

For we know that You are faithful through the stillness and the storm
For You've been with us from the start
Father, we commit to You our hearts
Father, we commit to You our hearts

istinkatblogging.com

2010-10-23T09:42:00.000-07:00

The name is available...I need to look into getting it as my new domain.

Between me creating a full-blown slide show of the rest of our vacation and a posting to go with it (and it then proceeding to poof into nowhere) and then our computer crashing...

Well, let's just say you could have gone on a trip far-far away, have had no internet access, come back home and felt obligated to catch up on 1378 emails, fed your dog (or cat, but if you are a cat person you are not really supposed to be reading this blog-I'm sure the rules state it somewhere), made a run to the grocery store to stock your fridge back up from having been gone so long, visited your Great-lost Aunt and sat through a full geneology as to how you should know her next door neighbor Erma [not that the two are related (no pun intended), but that its sometimes how Great-lost Aunt stories work best] and then have looked at the sidebar of your own blog or stumbled here and you wouldn't have missed a single posting.

So this morning it dawned on me: oh yes! I have this thing called a blog I should perhaps update.

Well, I'll admit that thinking of doing something and actually doing it are two very different things and I'm still trying to be gentle on my computer for a while since its having a little meltdown (for fear it will decide to just shut down and never start again). So, instead of posting pics that now seem like they are from forever ago, I will just give you this link.. Between the pretzel M&M brownies with salted caramel buttercream and the pumpkin pie in a cupcake recipes...let's just say Bosch and the kids will be having dessert every night for a while!

Family Vacation 2010 Day 2

2010-09-18T14:49:00.000-07:00

We had a blast in St Louis...it is very family friendly for tourists and has a ton to offer (surprisingly, most of it is free).

The kids (and the adults!) loved the Science Center and visiting Forest Park, especially Turtle Park.

The Science Center had a great selection of hands-on activities, fun demonstrations like Splat Science (PP and MM loved the man throwing objects over three stories down to see how they behaved when they hit the ground) and we enjoyed a demo of Brain Games too (ever see waves coming out from someone's head before?!?) We also enjoyed an Under the Sea IMAX show (MM and PP's first...it was a great lead in to the fact we'd be heading to an aquarium in a couple of days)!

For lunch between the two places we stopped at Crown Candy Kitchen. Ever watch Man vs. Food? Bosch and I enjoy this show and this location was one of many they've featured. See it here. We opted against the challenge (and skipped the BLT, which it is also famous for) for hand-dipped ice cream.

We also enjoyed our hotel in Forest Park...the kids think it had something to do with the yummy breakfast and dinner and popcorn and soda at night...oh yeah, all that and the pool...they liked it all:)

Vacation 2010 Day 1

2010-09-18T14:32:00.001-07:00

We are back from our family vacation...this year was a tour of Springfield (Illinois), St Louis (Missouri), and Muskogee/Tulsa (Oklahoma). Although those were the main destinations we also traveled to a variety of other locations including Miami, Cuba, Lebanon, Peru, Ottawa, and the sorts...we felt like quite accomplished travelers (even if those weren't the "real" places that most would associate with those names)!

Although I will be posting a number of slideshows for the different places we visited, I think I can speak for the whole Lilypad right now when I say this was an awesome vacation from beginning to end...

First Day of School 2010

2010-09-04T12:48:00.000-07:00

September 1, 2010 marked the first day of school for MeowMeow and Princess P. MM is entering 3/4 grade while PP is entering K/1st. They were both excited to start school (PP more than MM..."The summer flew by!" per him...and me).

What was also fairly exciting was that we were able to start school this year in our new school room! Bosch worked some crazy hours to get it done and it was (less a countertop, but that was out of our control...more pictures to follow once it is installed).

Cousins

2010-08-25T18:00:00.000-07:00

We try to have cousins over during Spring Break...well, this year it never happened and before we knew it the summer break was almost over. Luckily we were able to schedule a mid-week sleepover! We all had a ton of fun geocaching, eating pizza, having a Scooby-Doo marathon, and swimming the next morning. It was a late night and an early morning, but aren't all sleepovers that way?!?

We are very thankful to have family living so near by and fortunate that the cousins all are around the same age so they have similar interests.

Up North 2010

2010-08-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

First tooth lost!

2010-08-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

PP was bound and determined to lose her tooth up at the cabin (go to the Up North Slideshow and you can see some of the attempts to make it happen)! She was so happy when it came out and surprised. I can't even tell you how many times that day she said, just out of the blue "I don't have a tooth...I really lost it!"

The kids are at their grandpa and grandma's...

2010-07-24T06:21:00.000-07:00

and that means I am supposed to be tackling my "I've been avoiding this for too long" to-do list.

I did get half of a large project (unpacking and organizing the rest of the basement-yuck!) done yesterday, which means I am supposed to complete it today.

But for the last 15 minutes I have been sipping some tea, checking emails and trying to motivate myself to get back down to work.

I suppose it would be a nice feeling to say I finished such a big project.

Well, instead I will take the next 10 minutes or so and peruse this blog a bit more.

I wish I would have thought of something like this when my kids were babes...so cute!

Still can't post pics for some reason...

2010-07-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

but in the meantime, here is a verse that has been on my heart as of late...

Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21

Houston, we have a problem...

2010-07-08T07:44:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to post for about a week but am continuing to run into errors...hopefully I can get it resolved quickly...photos and posts are backing up!

Helmet Hair

2010-07-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Summer is a time of much fun. One of the things our kids do for hours on end is wheeled "stuff": bikes, scooters, ripsticks. This is all fine and dandy, but it seemed like Princess was getting her hair done 5-6 times every day because of ponytails or pigtails getting loose, not feeling right in a helmet, etc.

So, to take care of the issue I typically braid her hair. There are a variety of ways I do it, but I have found a new (to me) way of braiding her hair that anyone (yes, anyone!) can do in less than 5 minutes: Fishbone/herringbone braids.

Fishbone braids look similar to (and are in some ways) to french braids. French braids require a patterning that some people have difficulty with. Although I personally do not really understand the difficulty, fishbones are a braid in its near simplest form.

I apologize for not taking pictures while actually braiding, but braiding does, in my experience, require two hands:)

Here are the easiest directions I can think of to explain how to do it for anyone out there: thank you Wikipedia!

Divide your hair into two sections.
Pull a skinny strand of hair from the outside of the left section, and add it to the right side.
Do the same for the right side. Pull a skinny strand of hair out from the outside of the right section, and add it to the left side. Pull it tight.
You just keep repeating the steps until you want to stop
When you're done just tie it with an elastic band. Add a cute ribbon or charm to give it some personality if you'd like. I want to mention here I don't recommend a tigger hairband;)

Anyways, below is a slideshow of PP hair done this way. I start higher up (similar to a start point of a traditional french braid...that is up to you and how comfortable you get doing this braid!) and that seems to hold the braid together well even with the amount of abuse it gets from helmet usage, it does look similar to a regular french braid, but then the braid to the bottom is definitely a fishbone.

Still here...

2010-06-27T10:59:00.001-07:00

So, today I was gently reminded that I have a blog (thanks Heather). Things have been a bit crazy around here: MM started summer school, PP as been busy with Safety Town, 4 evenings of each week are consumed with T-Ball/Baseball, the pool has opened...it is summer! And with summer comes festivals. I love to frequent these, browse the booths, eat some food, walk around and (I'll admit it!) people-watch. Over the past few years it hasn't been easy to actually do this...I have spent more time at the pony rides and ice cream stands than the actual festivals, but this year was different.

One festival we try to get to every year is Strawberry Festival in Cedarburg. This year MM had a birthday party to attend and Bosch was working, so it left PP and myself to go. There was a hair salon raising money and the way they did it was by having girls and boys that could get their hair styled, fake tattoos and the sort. PP was all for it and so I let her get it done...how fitting to get a little pampering on a girl's day out!

The best part of this day though? Realizing that PP is now at an age that she enjoys browsing and wandering the booths, tasting some of the foods unique to the festival at hand, and just hanging out with her mom.

A little side note of an Princes P-ism... At the festival they had a booth selling Sprecher Root Beer and Strawberry sodas. PP wanted to sample the strawberry soda. PP, very matter of fact, handed the lady working the stand her money and proceeded to order a strawberry soda. Well, by the time we made it to the booth they were all sold out. PP then changed her order to Root Beer and very loudly (can she do it any other way?) announced that she was quite displeased that she had to have Root Beer. Her words: "Well, I suppose Root Beer will have to do...although this isn't a Root Beer Festival, it is a Strawberry Festival (emphasis, of course, of Strawberry). They should have planned better."

I couldn't disagree with her, but we are still obviously working on tact and our tone of speaking.

Safety Town 2010

2010-06-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Princess P was so excited to participate in Safety Town this year. MM had done it a few years ago (it is only for kids entering into K). She was able to learn about safety in every capacity: fire, weather, water, playground-you name it! She was so nervous the day of graduation...wondering if she had earned her diploma. She was so excited when her name was called that she gave Officer Krohnberg a fist bump while accepting her diploma!

In Honor

2010-05-31T06:49:00.000-07:00

The U.S. military is the most technologically advanced in the world. With a defense budget that will exceed $600 billion in 2010, we can buy the most advanced aircraft and heavy artillery in the world.

But all our war machinery is a heap of scrap metal without the brave Americans who have put themselves in harm's way for generations in wars abroad.

Today is Memorial Day, when we honor the sacrifice of those who have fallen while defending our country and its ideals. These Americans, men and women, have come from all walks of life. They have been sisters and brothers, parents and children.

They endure rigorous training and leave their families for extended periods to fulfill their duty.

Their story has spanned time and space — from the beaches of Normandy to the deserts of the Persian Gulf. And their sacrifice has remained one deserving of the highest honor. Although opinions on war can differ, there can be no difference of opinion about the importance of honoring our war dead.

In many countries around the world, there are parades in May to showcase military might, with tanks rolling down the streets and troops on parade. Here, many of our most poignant Memorial Day tributes are held in cemeteries.It is a fitting symbol, perhaps, of where we see our real strength lies. Today, a grateful nation celebrates not its history of victories on the battlefield, but each individual soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice.

And, let's not forget: on this Memorial Day, we also remember those who are serving abroad and wish them a safe return.

per DailyWorld

Year-End

2010-05-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

We are part of an amazing homeschooling group from our church. Besides offering classes, co-ops, field trips and the like it offers something I find even more valuable...fellowship (both for the kids and their parents). There are few things greater in life than finding those who are in the same boat as you and being able to brainstorm, relate, and feed off of one another. Well, having just said that, there is at least one thing that I think is better...talking to mom's who have been through the season of life I'm currently in and know that, although they may have gotten a little bruised in the process, their whole family made it through and are better off for it! Last night was a night of celebration of the journey us homeschoolers are taking and of another school year (nearly) done.

MM got to sing "The Bible is a Treasure" "ABC Song" and ""I Have a Friend"
with the 1-3 grade music class.

He also played a piano solo "The Ash Grove."

PP sang "Jesus Little Lamb" "The Lord is My Shepherd" and "Keep Your Tongue"
with the 4 and 5 K music class.

She also performed a song in front of the group (her first time!) called
"Teddy's Tuba and Polly's Piccolo."

I am so proud of the kids and their hard work this school year...

Technically PP is currently in 4K and will be moving onto Kindergarten this fall. This school year she has accomplished so much (She is a smart cookie, but I think more of it has to do with that she likes to try and keep up with her big brother!). Click on any of the following to see further what it is she and MM have been working on this school year.

She is reading (she completed How to Read in 100 Easy Lessons, and is currently mid-way through Horizons Level 1), She breezed through Saxon Kindergarten Math and is currently in the second half of Singapore Math 1. She has completed Level B Getty-Dubay Italics and occasionally followed along with MM during Science and History.

MM is technically in 2nd grade and will be moving onto 3rd this fall. I say technically for them both because just like PP he is often times doing work that is a grade ahead of him, but we never really focus on what grade they are in in the first place...we just want them doing work that is at their level...a challenge but not frustratingly difficult (one of the many reason I love to homeschool).

MM has completed Story of the World 1, Bob Jones Heritage 3, Apologia Science Astronomy, Level C Getty Dubay Italics, EDCON level 2 readers (both regular and Shakespeare), is in the second half of Singapore Math 3 , is continuing Sequential Spelling and much more.

I am looking forward to the upcoming school year (the kids will be doing more together as PP is now a reader). I will admit, I ordered all our curriculum for next year (and Bosch sometimes gets a little concerned because of how excited I get weeding through books!) and the only thing I am hesitant on is Math...Singapore Math Level 4 is nearly all fractions and geometry...yikes! Good thing Bosch has already volunteered to take over teaching responsibilities for that subject if it gets too ugly for me!

Mother's Day

2010-05-14T08:22:00.000-07:00

From the sounds of it, every mom I know had a nice Mother's Day, as did I. I think it is cute how the kids are so aware of it being Mother's Day now and are always trying to think of new ways to shower me with love. But to be honest, the thing I like most is the day after Mother's Day (and all those days to follow!). I like that they still do all of that without even having to think about it.

For my husband

2010-05-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in most families where the realization that a larger vehicle is necessary comes along. Having a baby typically prompts this (a stroller, pack-n-play, and other supplies for long trips take up a LOT of space). We had tried to avoid getting a mini-van by purchasing other vehicles that fit the bill, but soon it ended up coming down to gas-mileage and convenience and a search for a minivan began.

After admitting that a minivan would be best, there was one requirement by Bosch in the purchase: we had to be able to fit a full sheet of drywall in the back.

So we searched and searched and found the few that met the requirement...and then we found some that met my requirements (automatic door, roof rack, dual control air, and low mileage)...
one thing that was NOT on my list was a great sound system. Now, I love to listen to the radio, but let's face it....I am not planning on rocking out in the mini.

As we were wandering the car lot a sales guy came up to us...well, actually 4 or so...surprise! We ended up getting a guy who was more than capable to show me the features I so wanted...but I think the whole reason we ended up purchasing this particular vehicle was because the guy related so well to Bosch. He sympathized with Bosch and the transition to the minivan, so he tried to point out the features Bosch would maybe enjoy (the decals on the sides, so it doesn't look like every other minivan out there...but more importantly, the sound system).

Granted, the sound system in the van was and is nothing special, but those two guys bonded a little in that moment...Sitting in the driver and passenger seats, discussing that they never thought they'd own a minivan in their lives...

I had this link passed on to me the other day and it made me smile...I thought I'd post it here:)

Start your engines

2010-05-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

This morning the kids (and Bosch) set up a Pinewood Derby Track in the basement. He had been working at a house in which the owners were getting rid of it and asked Bosch if he'd like it...needless to say, the kids have been enjoying the track for about an hour or so now. Good thing we didn't set it up prior to their actual AWANA Grand Prix. First off, we didn't think it would be fair to test the cars prior to competition and secondly I was concerned with a damaged car (and an upset child possibly unable to complete).

The kids had fun pulling out cars (not cats!) from the previous year and racing their cars from the most recent Derby...

The kids posing with their cousins (MM got 4th for speed, PP for 2nd for speed-they were in separate divisions).

MM in the final race.

PP during one of her qualifying races.

Fitting in

2010-05-05T05:35:00.000-07:00

So, the final size of this dog is somewhat unknown. Bentley's mom and dad were small and the breeder had two other litters with them so we have gone with the notion that he will be around 45 pounds. But then, there are no guarantees and, well, he just seems to be on a route to be large...like really large...but we could be way off on that... he has a lot of fur which makes him look bigger than he really is. Neither Bosch nor myself have any expertise in determining the future size of dogs and it isn't like dwelling on it will make his size change so that is the end of that concern. What we do have some expertise on in this house is weirdness...and this dog is filling that category daily with odd new quirks.

For one, he doesn't curl up while he sleeps...this is his usual, odd sleeping mode:

And when he is just lying around, he always tucks one back paw under his body (you can kind of see it sticking out near his other). Now, that isn't so weird, but the odd thing to me is that he is fascinated with our fireplace...in fact, he licks it daily. Not excessively or anything, but at least twice a day I will catch him going up to it and giving it one single lick and then he'll will plop down. This dog may be a little OCD...which if that is the case, he'll fit in just fine.

See that sniffer? Well, Bentley rarely just walks around the house. If he is walking his nose is to the ground. This had made for a very nervous me who took the dog out probably 5000 more times than necessary...I thought he was looking for a spot to "go." Nah, he just loves to smell stuff.

All 18 pounds of fluffy love right here. See the back paw again?

Hanging out with MM. Who, by the way, is insisting I graduate him to a name...he's 8 and a half now and that just doesn't do according to him:)

Happy Half Birthday Princess!

2010-05-04T08:09:00.000-07:00

Princess P with her new best bud

In this house we like to celebrate big things and little things alike. One tradition that we have is to celebrate the kids half birthdays. Princess P is officially 5 and a half years old today. On half birthdays the kid-of-honor gets to choose all meals and many activities.

PP chose pancakes for breakfast, toasted cheese for lunch and hot dogs for dinner....definitely NOT what I would choose for a days menu, but exactly what she likes (i'll have to sneak in some fruits and veggies...she is a carb-lover)! To top it all off she asked for a pineapple upside down cake (we do simple cakes for half birthday...thank goodness!) We are also going to do a movie night tonight that consists of watching the Tooth Fairy. She has been having a fun day of playing pretend, Pixos and is planning on scooting around the neighborhood on her Razor (not really out of tune with a typical day, but it is what she likes!)

Happy half birthday to an amazing, intelligent, caring,loving...the list could go on and on! little girl whose smile (and personality) can light up a room!

Favorite color: Pink
Favorite food: Pizza
Favorite book: Barbie ones (any story)
Favorite movie: Beauty and the Beast and Enchanted
Favorite saying: Oh-la-la!
Favorite activity: dusting (yes, it is true!)
Favorite game: Wii and Disney BINGO
Favorite place to go: Disney World and zoos

What can you do now that you're 5 1/2 that you couldn't do when you were 5?
I'm hoping that I am tall enough to be able to go across the lilypads at the pool this summer!

PP at 6 months old

Is honesty really always the best policy?

2010-04-30T07:12:00.001-07:00

I typed a post that was nearly two pages long...and realized that it was more of a vent than a post... It was ugly in fact. It was me being too emotional during an emotionally charged situation that is on-going at the Lilypad.

How does one handle someone who is honest...to the point of it being hurtful?

What if that currently hurtful statement is said in love and the person who said it is looking out for your best interest?

What if the honest statement is exactly the thing that needs to be said...but more importantly, needs to be heard?

I had someone say something to me today...

It wasn't what I wanted to hear
It hurt to hear the words
It was discouraging because I had hoped for something different
It was honest
It was said to try and protect me from future hurts
It was said in love

And although the words bit my ears, they are appreciated...they are valued...and I am thankful for them.

A simple thought to ponder

2010-04-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

"The greatest oak was once a little nut who held its ground."
—Unknown

Like a weed...

2010-04-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

MeowMeow and Princess P are growing so fast...I try to shut my eyes and capture moments (first because I often forget the camera and secondly because memories should last a lifetime; pictures can be lost, put away and forgotten). There are sometimes things that the kids have said or done and I say "oh, I'm going to write that down for when you're older." I have often times failed at that very thing. Thank goodness for the ease of this blog so I can capture some of those moments.

Princess P has always been a girl who has been a strong individual who marches to her own beat...there is not much that fazes her, she cares deeply and wears her heart on her sleeve but is also a tough little cookie...stubborn as, well, her mom:) Lately she has taken to the phrase "cross your heart?" I do not know wear she picked this phrase up, but it has stuck with her. This morning on the way to church she and MM were talking in the van and he said it to her...apparently the phrase is catching! Her reply? A motion of crossing her heart along with the spoken word of "ink."

Unbeknown to me, there was a deep conversation between MM and PP yesterday in regards to this. Apparently crossing your heart is one thing, but to do it in ink...that can't be erased or taken back like simple words can be.

I catch myself saying "later" or "maybe tomorrow" or "not today" to small requests from the kids. Small requests that mean a lot to them. Often times those things I say we'll do later, tomorrow and such fade and never even happen. I need to learn to stop and say sure more often...live more in the now or, if something really can't happen that moment, to follow through on when I say they will. This doesn't just happen with the kiddos though. I catch myself saying it to Bosch at times, to myself, and to God.

I often times struggle with prioritizing. Don't get me wrong, I can make a to-do list with the best of them, but the contents of those lists are often tasks...not relational, not life-altering, bluntly, not really all that important. Yet, I make these lists, task by task in order of perceived importance, and slowly I check things off of them, one by one, and I feel a sense of accomplishment.

I have recently been having my eyes opened wide to the fact that I have been so wrapped up in tasks that more important things...things you often can't make lists for, have been avoided, ignored or unrealized. God is pushing me to refocus and recompose myself to be more open to the opportunities he has been trying to provide for me. I want my life to not just be a strand of empty promises, but promises that are written in ink...permanent...that have a follow up written to each them of the results of those promises kept on my child's heart, my friends' hearts, my family's hearts and whoever else God may lead me to interact with.

We studied 1Timothy 6 today in our ABF...it was humbling to be made aware of how rich (monetarily speaking) we as a society are compared to much of the world, but even more so to take a moment to once again reflect on just how wealthy (with family, friends, health, etc) I am.

We do good things, we try to be generous, we share well with others:) BUT it isn't very often (or ever!) that we are made uncomfortable while doing so. We stay well within our comfort-zone: socially, financially, emotionally. The following verse stuck with me and is going to require much repeating and focus in the weeks to come...something is brewing in my heart and I am feeling charged that Bosch and I should be better demonstrating this to our kids than we have up to this point.

¹⁸Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. ¹⁹In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

And so I don't forget:

MM informed me that stuffed animals can no longer be present in his room while he sleeps (apparently 8 1/2 was the cut-off for such things). He often times announces his desire to have more "man-time" with Bosch. He still loves to snuggle with me and lay in bed and tell stories (as long as I don't call him "my baby"). Below is a pic of his 8 1/2 year old cake.

PP still calls her sneezes "bless-yous" and has her first loose tooth...she still toots every time she coughs, which then results in a big giggle-fit. Bosch and I remind her that she won't be so amused if this continues into her teens:)

And a note to myself:

Apparently you use the word "super" a lot... Like, super a lot. It seems both the kids are using it to describe nearly any and all events and things they come in contact with... Try to use more descriptive words-you have an English minor worth using~ Signed, Yourself

Wheat-free Wednesday

2010-04-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

I am a self-proclaimed foodie. I love looking at it, smelling it, tasting it, buying it, creating it....Mmmmmm! Having grown up in Wisconsin there are a few food items that perhaps aren't the norm, but have fallen into the category of comfort foods for me; The two that immediately pop into my mind are tortes and casseroles.

Since having gone wheat-free, I have avoided making casseroles OR have stuck with the safe gluten-filled version and just done without. I appreciate the simplicity of a casserole. You can make additional vegetables or fruits to go as sides with the dish but many times the recipes are a full meal in and of itself (less, according to Bosch, the dessert...which is always a necessity!) T

his past week, when making out the menu for this week, I stumbled across this recipe. It was a bit odd as I have frequented the blog in which this recipe is posted many times before but somehow passed by the recipes over and over again! My thanks must go to out to Gluten-Free Mommy for this amazingly yummy recipe: Spinach Artichoke Spaghetti Casserole. AS far as tweaking the recipe...well, it sounded so good I just stuck with it. I did use a bag of fresh baby spinach in place of frozen. Oh, and where it states sun-dried tomatoes...go for it. I used a whole jar!

I decided that since this was going to be a 100% gluten free meal it was time to try out the Gluten Free Pantry pie crust mix I had picked up a while back. The box states the mix makes 4 crusts. I was able to make two out of it and they were a crumbly mess. I found myself scrapping one back into a ball and throwing it into the freezer to deal with at a later time and simply pressing the other half of the made mix into a pie pan...no fluted edges, nothing...

I had originally planned on making an apple pie, but without two crusts (the other one would have never rolled into a crust that could have been laid on the pie) I opted for a strawberry pie instead:

have a pie crust ready (already baked)

2 pounds strawberries, 1 pound mashed, the other simply washed and hulled
3/4 cup sugar
6 T cornstarch
1/3 c water

Combine the sugar and cornstarch in a small pot. Add the mashed strawberries and water. Heat on medium-high, stirring constantly. Once boiling continue stirring and let boil for 2 minutes. Pour in bowl and let cool approx 20 minutes. Fold in remaining strawberries to cooling mixture and pour in crust. Chill in fridge minimum of 3 hours. Enjoy!

Mmmmmm Monday!

2010-04-19T07:30:00.000-07:00

I love to bake and although I am no longer eating wheat, I still make quite a few gluten-filled recipes. There are a few newer recipes that Bosch has insisted are delish but it dries me batty to not be able to test the goods for myself, so I am more than willing to stick with some of my stand-by recipes, knowing that I had at one time deemed the recipes as a keeper. One such recipe is my HoneyBun Cake.

I have two versions of this cake...one is a quicker version (from-a-box base). I like the end result of both but often tend to sway towards the from-scratch version more, as I like like to have things be homemade when possible.

I have been annoyed in the past with recipes that called for buttermilk because when i would buy it i would always have some left and it would go to waste often. I tried the milk and vinegar alternative and it just didn't cut it. Then I gave SACO Cultured Buttermilk Blend a shot. It is found in the grocery store in the baking aisle (near the powdered egg whites at the store I frequent). It is a dry mix that you reconstitute and the container just sits in the fridge waiting for the next recipe calling for buttermilk...and it is just as good as buying buttermilk in liquid form in my opinion.

This recipe is one that I often make when Spring has arrived (which is probably a good time to make it as you need to take a lot of walks in the nice warmer weather to compensate for eating it!)

HONEYBUN CAKE

3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups white sugar
1/2 c brown sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup butter

2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 eggs

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoon ground cinnamon

2 cups confectioners' sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened

4 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Grease and flour (I use Baker's Joy spray) a 10 inch Bundt pan.
In a large bowl, mix the flour, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/2 c brown sugar, salt, baking powder and baking soda. Blend in buttermilk, 1 cup of butter, 2 teaspoons of vanilla and 4 eggs. Beat for 3 minutes at medium speed. Pour half of batter into prepared pan.
Mix the 3/4 c brown sugar and the cinnamon together in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture on top of the batter already poured in the pan (try to keep about1/4 inch away from edges).
Pour remaining batter in the pan.
Take a butterknife or skewer and swirl around in pan (similar to what you do when you make a marble cake).
Bake in preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Frost cake while it is still fairly hot. Serve warm.
To Make the frosting: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioner's sugar, milk and vanilla until smooth. Blend in the cream cheese until smooth.

I typically use a plastic sandwich bag that I have cut a corner off of to put the frosting on in a nice-looking manner. This cake is best the following day in my opinion (although that has rarely happened!) and you can simply slice it and reheat in the microwave...

The weekend my house threw up...

2010-04-18T15:18:00.000-07:00

Have you ever gone out in public not looking your best? One of those moments like a quick run to the grocery store to get some eggs or a stop at the bank to deposit a check and you figure "eh" in terms of your outward appearance? Sweatpants...hair tousled more than usual...just not your usual self? Well, I have on more than one occasion and you know what happens nearly EVERY time I do it? I run into someone I know. The end result of this is not embarrassment or a feeling of shame, but sometimes one of regret in not taking the time to show value in how I look and other times the exact opposite take on it where I could care less if I had looked "better"!

Let's now translate that thought into my house. I try my best to keep up on keeping it tidy. I try to, at the least, maintain order in the main living areas (I have young children who are trained to keep their doors closed so that the clutter is contained), the bathrooms clean and the kitchen countertops spotless. There are some days that are better than others and weekends seem to be the most challenging. Of course, those are typically the days when people stop by unannounced at our place too.

This weekend seemed to be days that were the lowest ranking in terms of overall appearance of our home: yesterday we somehow ended up with a number of the neighbor kids playing at our house (which I love!), but this is the equation that has been yet to be proven wrong:

My Kids + Neighbor Kids+ Playing Inside (even if for only a moment)= MESSY HOUSE

I'm over it...my house is not any cleaner at the moment and I'm okay with it...but I found it very fitting that this morning we decided to erupt our Olympus Mons (a volcano, the highest mountain peak in the solar system, found on Mars). It seemed very fitting to have any eruption (although this one was contained) this weekend and the kids had a blast too!

I have a friend, whose name I won't mention here, that seems to have it all together: dressed well, cute hairdo, kids that have manners better than most, participates in a lot of activities, the list goes on and on.

I was surprised...okay, I'll admit it...I was SHOCKED when I came to her house with my family for dinner and found dirty dishes on the countertops, unfolded laundry in baskets on the living room floor, and her hair was anything but coiffed. To find a seat on her couch required the removal of toys, books, and a piece of clothing or two. I had been to her house many times for a Bible study group that she hosted and I was part of, a few playdates, etc and never was her house in this state.

After years of getting to really know this woman I confided in my thoughts from that first dinner invite and we had a good laugh about it (especially since after that particular dinner there were many times where she visited our home or vice versa and the conditions of our homes were like I just described!) I had always been in the mindset that when I know people are coming over I do a thorough sweep of my house...it is closer to showroom than disaster. It wouldn't matter if it is someone we have known a short time or forever. It hadn't mattered if we were acquaintances or related.

What was said that day really changed my perspective. I believe the words that were said to me were "I wasn't too concerned with how my house looked at the moment...I wanted to take more time preparing my heart for your visit than my home."

Don't get me wrong, I take pride in the house we call a home, but the house is merely a venue to gather in...not something that needs showing off and in perfect showroom form. I have reevaluated some of the things I used to do before people would visit (like a full down-on-my-knees washing of the floor only to have to do it all over again after people left) and have come more accustomed to a much more lax routine (but hey, I'm only human...I have to pick up before hand...it is just part of who I am).

I have found people enjoy being warmly invited into our home and enjoying the fellowship that follows more than admiring the lack of dust, the condition of our countertops or the absence of magazines on an end table. I have had to re-evalute this again as I found that once we moved into the "new" house it had been even harder to maintain this more laid-back attitude towards the cluttered-ness of our home (I felt like showroom was expected..by whom? not really sure yet!). Oh, and I got over that pretty fast:)

As for all the dirty dishes currently on my countertop?
They'll be gone by tomorrow.

The boxes of summer clothes in the livingroom that need to be sorted?
They will be tried on and that will happen this week.

The curriculum boxes that need to be put in the minivan for teh HEARTH Curriculum Fair?
Well, that isn't until next Monday night.

The laundry that needs to be washed, folded and put away?
Wednesday...maybe Thursday (hey, it isn't my favorite chore)

Regardless of those tasks, my home is ALWAYS open for family and friends...and THAT never needs to be scheduled!

Sleep...

2010-04-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

I am one of those people who does better on more sleep (say 8-9 hours)...now don't get me wrong, I can function well on much.much.much less, but prefer more. During the week I don't get to sleep in often and I love to stay up late, so typically I am on the short side of hours. I do get moments, due to my dear husband, of getting to sleep in on Saturday mornings til 8 or 8:30 (quite a luxury that I definitely take advantage of)!

This past week, having recently gotten the pup and all, I was depleted of the normal amount of sleep I get and the result was me being woken up by Bosch...wondering if I was going to make it to the kids swim lessons that morning (YIKES!) Their swim lessons are at 10:15 and it was nearly 10! That wouldn't have been much a big deal other than a little razzing from Bosch, but a family member called right after I woke up and asked me if I was enjoying the beautiful day...um, yeah, not really yet!

The thing is this little creature that has been affecting all our sleeping patterns, Bentley, doesn't seem to be fazed by the lack of sleep that was going on...in fact, he seems to be handling the adjustment to our house just fine.

I know the saying goes something like "sleep like a baby"....I now know that should be revised to "sleep like a pup."

He is Risen!

2010-04-04T06:14:00.000-07:00

I tried to think of something profound to say today...but very quickly I learned that the only words worth sharing today are these:

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.(John 3:16-17)

The Last Supper

And his disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as he said unto them: and they made ready for the passover. And in the evening he cometh with the twelve. (Mark 14:16-17)

And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it. And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many. Verily I say unto you. I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God. (Mark 14:22-25)

Jesus is Crucified

Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers. And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.

And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand; and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying Hail King of the Jews! And they spit on him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head. And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him and led him away to crucify him. (Matthew 27:27-31)

And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus. And there followed him a great company of people and women, which also bewailed and lamented him. (Luke 23:26-27).

And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Then said Jesus, Father forgive them; for they know not what they do. (Luke 23:33-34)

Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the Scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did. (John 19:23-24)

Jesus Dies and Is Buried

And it was about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. And the sun was darkened, and the vail of the temple was rent in the midst. And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, he said, Father into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost. Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man. (Luke 23:44-47)

When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple: He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed. (Matthew 27:57-60)

And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid. (Mark 15:47)

Jesus is Risen!

And very early in the morning, the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him. But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you. (Mark 16:2-7)

So then, after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. (Mark 16:19-20)

Wheat-free 101

2010-03-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

1. It was interesting how once I found I needed to go without certain things I craved them more than ever...and unfortunately it took a weight gain of about 10 pounds to come to the realization that I needed to focus again on what I've been putting in my mouth. Well, my pants are not yet forgiving of this lesson learned, but I have been.

I am not a big fan of prepackaged/processed food (not to say I don't make things with them or eat them, but I am fully aware of what I am putting in my body and limit consumption of those things greatly). Because of my habit of avoiding many of these types of foods, I thought going wheat free would be a simple, easy transition. The transition has been harder than I thought it would be.

In the beginning I found myself eating and paying exorbitant amounts for things that I wouldn't have otherwise:

Wheat-free pretzels at $8.50 a bag
brown rice bread at $4.50 a loaf (I had made whole-grain bread at home)
pancake mix for $4.25 a bag
brownie mix at $6.75
rice pasta for $4.00
all purpose baking mix for $4 a small bag

Needless to say our grocery budget was hurting. You see, before going wheat-free, I rarely ate pretzels, pancakes OR brownies...I occasionally ate bread and I really do love pasta.

I now have a pantry with wheat-free mixes sitting on the shelf for pie crust, brownies, all purpose baking, pancakes and the like but they won't be used in such a rush...just for special occasions or the like.

That said, I am on a mission for a great homemade gluten free pizza crust recipe...now THAT is a food I would rather not do without!

2. There are a lot of restaurants that have gluten free options, but most of them are chains or high-end.

I have fallen in love with PF Changs gluten-free menu. I think the thing I love most about it is that many of the gluten free options are on their regular menu as well. They are very careful about designating gluten free by using a different plate system without it being glaringly obvious to the outside world. High end restaurants have always been great about substituting...you get what you want and it feels like having a personal chef for a moment, but, of course, you pay for it!

3. When someone invites you over to eat, be prepared to not feel well later that day or night.

a) Eating wheat-free is an ongoing learning experience for me, so I can't expect others to make a meal (even if they say they will make it wheat-free) that actually is. Case in point...when I started eating wheat-free I thought looking at the nutritional info for WHEAT to be at the end near the allergen info was sufficient.

b) Next I learned that I had to look for "wheat" within the ingredients themselves to cover my bases. The reason being components to a main ingredient need not be listed in the allergen section. An example would look something like this from a soup we have in our house:

Ingredients: Tomato puree (water, tomato paste), carrots, celery,

prepared kidney beans, dried peas, cabbage, potatoes,
green beans, enriched pasta (durum wheat flour, water, egg
white solids, niacin, ferrous sulfate, thiamine mononitrate,
riboflavin, folic acid), prepared garbanzo beans,
spinach. Contains less than 1% of the following
ingredients: salt, modified food starch, soybean
oil, onion powder, sugar, garlic powder, Alfredo
cheese sauce (Parmesan cheese, [milk culture,
salt enzymes]. Romano cheese [milk cultures, salt, enzymes],
sweet cream powder sugar, yeast extract and natural flavorings), spice.

So, if you've read this far...did you see "wheat" tucked neatly within the ingredients? Now imagine doing this with every food you purchase that comes in a bag or a can or anything else just to be sure.

Oh, but wait! There are other things to look for that also don't say wheat...not even in the ingredients list...

c) Lastly I learned that ingredients like modified food starch may contain wheat (did you see that listed in the ingredients above?!?) and NO WHERE on the label will it state WHEAT. For anyone that is starting off on a wheat free, or more extensive gluten-free diet, here is a great link to let you know what to be on the look-out for.

4. When you make something for yourself, be prepared to not feel well later that
day or night.

Refer to number 3 a,b, and c as to why.

5. There are a lot of great resources for someone like me, who loves to bake, but it requires a much more extensive pantry.

I like websites like allrecipes, Living Without and Delight (and first has an entire gluten-free section and the latter two are specifically for wheat and other allergy free recipes and have great magazine subscriptions also).

Unfortunately, baking a loaf of bread no longer means just whipping out some whole wheat flour and other simple baking ingredients...now it requires many types of flour combined at certain very specific ratios along with xantham gum or something of the like to make it meld together. I have found this to be a great resource in all things pertaining to gluten-free flours.

6. You eat much healthier than most if you simply stick to the basics of wheat-free living.

Enough said!

Ummmm, so I haven't posted in a while...

2010-03-24T23:21:00.000-07:00

Okay, let's face it...my record of keeping up on blog entries is about as good as my keeping up on a scrapbook for each of the kiddos. Let's look at the evidence:

My last post was December 17, 2009.
We have gone into a new year AND season.
I still had Christmas music on my playlist.
There was snow, and a lot of it, on the ground the last time I posted.
I have yet to finish more than a full page for either of the kid's scrapbooks.
Must there really be another? I think I've already proven my case!

Anyways, I have a revamped blog now and I hope to post some of what has been going on with us the past few months and continue to post on a more consistent basis for the months to come. My whole purpose for doing this was to record memories and such for the kids to be able to look back upon and keep ramblings and recipes for myself along the way.

BUT, before I go too far back to recall events already happening: we're getting a dog!

Bentley is a much-awaited addition to our family and we will be picking him up this coming Monday!

Through the 17th....and the anticipation of a delivery.

2009-12-17T06:35:00.000-08:00

First off, here is what has been the kiddos latest project. The kids thought it was funny that Bosch was building houses with gingerbread and royal icing. They then got upset at the thought that these are for decoration and not eating...then they were elated to know that that didn't mean they couldn't sneak a few treats while in the process of making them!

Over the past few days they have been busy wrapping up gifts for their teachers and last night had a Happy Birthday Jesus party at AWANA. We also went to a one-man rendition of Ebenezer Scrooge: A Christmas Carol...a great performance and I was impressed how the actor could capture the kids' attention for the entire hour, without even an intermission!

So...back to the post at hand. First some background: I am surrounded by a lot of pregnant people and the number keeps growing. Seriously, A LOT of pregnant people (40+)...although not all are close close friends, they are acquaintances and I run into them from time to time and see them and their growing bellies or fresh little newborn babies. I lost count at how many people, but there are now quite a few more from even last month, so who knows!

I made the mistake when talking to someone I know the other night and mentioned my anticipation surrounding a delivery on Friday. Well, simply because they know my current "situation" they automatically asked who was going to have a baby next. I started laughing....

I was talking about my anticipation around OUR delivery...and no...I'm not pregnant.

Bosch and I had to get a new entertainment center for the new house...not because it would look better aesthetically...we simply didn't have one. Along with that we decided to give ourselves a present of a new dining room table and chairs, a coffee table and two end tables as well. I'm not big on material things, BUT the arrival of this "special delivery" scheduled for Friday was making me feel like a little kid at Christmas: I was giddy, excited, nervous (at how the set up would work in the space we have), and was looking forward to the day.

I only hope and pray that our excitement is that strong come Christmas Eve not because of the material gifts we may receive, but in honor of the greatest gift we could ever receive.

The table being replaced...interested?

I am thankful to hear my children talking still about what is really important at Christmas time and always.

I am hoping that our excitement will spread to those we surround ourselves with during this season who don't yet believe.

I pray that we live our lives in a way, not just during the Christmas season but always, that leaves an open door to others freely ask questions and challenge themselves to learn more about the 'reason for the season'.

The Eleventh AND Twelfth AND Thirteenth.

2009-12-13T14:41:00.000-08:00

We haven't been without doing things to celebrate our countdown to Christmas...we've just been having so much fun there hasn't been time to post about it! But before our daily events of the season, some commentary on the above picture.

PP: Mom, I'm ready to go outside and play.
Me: Okay, try to go potty first.
PP: I don't have to go.
Me: Well, try anyways.
PP (after about three seconds in the bathroom): Yeah, I don't need to go.
Me: Please try!

PP proceeds to go outside and without fail, ten minutes later... "Mom, I have to go potty!"

PP decided that it just isn't worth it to strip down all of the warm weather attire, so I have seen the above image more than once already this winter season. As her mother, I've decided that it is my duty to post pics like this on the blog for when she is older :)

On Friday the kids finished their annual Christmas ornaments, made some other gifts and enjoyed the snow.

Yesterday they played in the snow nearly every waking moment, but we completed the night with a new family tradition...the indoor hot dog roast (complete with s'mores for dessert!) I have a feeling this will not be a one time a year event only.

One thing I DON'T need to have be a tradition was our smoke alarms going off at 1 am. Apparently we made too good of a fire! It was a blessing in disguise though...First, we hadn't practiced our firedrill yet in the new house, so this was amazing practice for all of us. Secondly, I now know our smoke detectors work as they should (we chose the talking ones vs just the blaring sirens...it is supposed to help kids not set in and panic and stay put and I'll admit, to my comfort, they are amazingly sensitive). Thirdly, I have learned that Meow Meow will still sleep right through an alarm, which is scary in a way, but better we know now than later.

Anyways, today the kids have just been enjoying time with Bosch after having gone to church and I have been making little goodies after a trip to the Walderhaus for their annual Gingerbread House display..the kids love to vote on which houses they think are the best.

The Tenth...

2009-12-10T10:05:00.001-08:00

It is a big, fat tree....and we like it!

The kiddos' AWANA was canceled last night so we finally got a chance to decorate our tree...It took so long and was so exhausting that Bosch fell asleep underneath the tree. Just kidding of course, he was watering it, but got stuck kind of... What better time than to take a picture, right?

Today the kids have been hard at work making their ornaments (a tradition of sorts) and some other gifts for family members...they are very excited about all their gifts they have made this year and we are excited to see them get excited and get into the mode of giving vs getting.

The Ninth...

2009-12-09T08:34:00.001-08:00

Meow Meow working on a secret special project...

Princess P working on her special secret project (actually one of many!)

We were snowed in today...less Bosch...he pulled out the snow blower for about 2 hours and then headed off to work...I think he would have preferred to stay and play in the snow with the kids!

Relatives have called and asked if we are having a snow day today (they seemed disappointed at the answer of "no.") Thing is, since we homeschool, everything for school is right here in the first place, so why, on a day when the weather is horrible, would we NOT have school? The kids got to play in the snow, have hot chocolate wtih breakfast and all the other things I remember doing as a kid, but we'll get school done today and wait for a day "off" when we can have a "sunday" (when the weather starts getting nice again and we want nothing more than to enjoy a warm, sunny day!)

The Eighth...

2009-12-08T07:21:00.000-08:00

Today is one of my favorite days of the year. Tonight is the night we decorate our Christmas tree. I love making hot choclate or cider, snacking on treats St. Nick gave just a few nights before, and opening up our bins and telling the kids who each ornament is from or where we got it and a little story to go along with it. I am especially blessed that for a wedding shower my aunts had a great idea and made it Christmas themed, in that everyone gave an ornament to Jon and I as a gift...not only did it help make our first tree a little less sparse, but it created wonderful memories. The kids are impressed that the ornaments are "so old."

There is one particular ornament that I especially love...it doesn't fit in with the other ornaments on our tree in that is is very old fashioned. It has ever right to be called that because the truth is, it is old-fashioned...and pure and simply, old. I never met my great-great grandmother, but the ornament was originally hers. My great grandma, who is still alive today, gave it to me when she decided to downsize and move out of her house and knew she would only be having a table-top tree from then on. More than the gift of that ornament is the gift that my children have...they have been not only able to meet their great-great grandma, but they have spent time with her, listened to her stories, been amazed that when she was born things like the first transcontinental phone call by Alexander Graham Bell was yet to be made, televisions, computers, ipods, McDonald's simply didn't exist...houses cost less than an old used car does today and postage stamps were 4 cents a piece...for goodness sake, there wasn't even such a thing as a stop-and-go light (there was no need)!

Just as stories have been passed along from the kids' great-great grandmother to their great-grandma to their grandpa to me and now to them, I love the idea that one day we will divvy up the ornaments in the bins and they can share the stories behind the ornaments with their families when they put up trees in their own homes.

The Seventh...

2009-12-07T07:17:00.000-08:00

I had something planned for our countdown for the day, but that will have to happen a different day because something even better, something I had no control over whatsoever, was planned: our first significant snowfall!

So, after we found the box still in the basement with the necessities for living in Wisconsin weather (aka snowpants), Princess P started gearing up. Ever have one of those moments...one where you know your children are growing and then something dawns on you as to just how much? This happened to me just then and I could do nothing other than laugh hysterically (well, that and grab the camera!) Thankfully I had a newer pair, knowing she had grown "just a little" since last year and both her and MeowMeow were able to enjoy our winter wonderland.

The Sixth...

2009-12-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

So, St. Nick "visits" our home each year, bringing little trinkets, a Christmas ornament or two for the tree and candy (like we need more of that around the house!)...regardless, the kids look forward to it every year. We are especially excited because we have a place to hang our stockings this year!

The kids love to hear how children in different countries have and currently celebrate St. Nicholas and the kids have been shocked more than once that in many countries the stockings are filled with fresh fruits. The kids often ask me why and we turn the conversation first around the concept of not everyone having a local Piggly Wiggly or Pick-n-Save to run to and secondly there are people who simply cannot afford to make such purchases...that things like quality fresh foods are a blessing that we often take for granted.

This typically leads to us reviewing the story of Joseph being given a position of authority and saving his family when they travelled to where he was to get food during a terrible famine. The kids are often quite more thankful for the food they have over the next few days and are getting to an age now that they realize just how much they have and that there are so many without. But no matter the situation we turn to this verse to remind us best:

"I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12b-13

The Fifth...

2009-12-05T19:51:00.000-08:00

"Instead of the thornbush will grow the pine tree, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow. This will be for the Lord's renown, for an everlasting sign, which will not be destroyed." Isaiah 55:13

The Fourth...

2009-12-04T07:05:00.001-08:00

Today is a great day...we are doing THREE things today in preparation for Christmas:
One is purely out of my poor planning, one is just because, and the last is because I had already planned it.

First, my poor planning. Typically I have envelopes written out and such the day after Thanksgiving and am sure to send out cards no later than the 3rd of December. Today I am making the final selection and ordering our Christmas cards. I'm hoping the pictures/cards turn out better these...I think this is one time that I am thankfully we don't have a pet in the house and/or photoshop!

Just because it is movie/pizza night, we are watching a new Christmas movie that the kids have been begging to see (Santa Buddies...they are fans of all the other Buddies movies, so I'm guessing regardless of how poor the storyline is, they will love it simply because of the cute puppies)...they are NOT the dogs leading the sleigh in the picture above to those who are not familiar with "the Buddies."

Anyways, back to the post in session: Yesterdays confession kept me up at night...seriously, I laid there in bed thinking, "Why does this have to wait until next year? Why can't we just throw all the commercialism out the door THIS year?"

Well, I fell asleep trying to convince myself that a change like this would need preparation:

I would need to prepare the receivers of gifts to realize what we are doing in our family.

I would need to prepare the people who arrange the gift exchanges to not count us in.

Most importantly, I would need to prepare myself to have the conversation with those people as I think there may be some struggle with (as the tradition has been exchanging names and giving lists and traditions, both good and bad, are hard to break from).

I think this will take time...so I plan on sticking with the gifts we've already purchased for this year, BUT I will start bringing up our idea to our families THIS year in preparation for next.

The last, yet more important and truly planned activity for our family to celebrate the countdown to Christmas, is a workshop the kiddos are doing today. They are spending a couple hours and making presents for loved ones. I will admit, I do not know what the presents are going into this workshop, but it really doesn't matter...The kids will be making their gifts. This feels like a step int eh right direction for us! The kids will also be deciding WHO will be the receivers of these gifts, so that will be fun. I can't wait to see the finished results!

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly thing." Colossians 3:1-2

The Third...

2009-12-03T17:49:00.000-08:00

I love books...and thankfully so do my kids. The third makes me think of the many stories that we enjoy each year: The story of the three wise men, the three trees, the three skaters...all are stories in some sense about gifts that are given.

"And what a difference between our sin and God's generous gift of forgiveness. For this one man, Adam, brought death to many through his sin. But this other man, Jesus Christ, brought forgiveness to many through God's bountiful gift. And the result of God's gracious gift is very different from the result of that one man's sin. For Adam's sin led to condemnation, but we have the free gift of being accepted by God, even though we are guilty of many sins. The sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over us, but all who receive God's wonderful, gracious gift of righteousness will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ."

(NLT)

Today for our countdown to Christmas we finished our shopping for the gifts we would give to others. I have a confession surrounding this, but that will come later in the post.

I did most of our shopping online this year, but there are a few presents that the kids are responsible for picking out...grandparents, AWANA leaders, teachers, etc. I try to learn of the people who will be receiving these gifts likes and dislikes, but in the end it is the kids who pick out the presents. They painstakingly look at all the selections and, with nothing more than a limit on how much they can spend, they search tirelessly for the perfect gift. They also make a gift for each person to remind them that it isn't always about what you can buy as the importance of thinking of that person and doing something for them from the heart.

While at a store and seeing the kids eyes fill with excitement when they found THE gift I knew that no matter what they had picked out, the receiver of their gifts would be happy. It was then that I had a large sense of sadness overcome me and it is because of this...okay, my confession time: I hate lists (and if you know me, hate is a word not lightly used in our household).

Thing is

I ask for them because I want to get people something they will use, admire, enjoy.

I get them due to name exchanges in our families.

I rely on them because I often don't know well enough what peoples' likes and dislikes are.

I use them because I am afraid the person to whom I would give a present wouldn't appreciate or like it in a way that I think they might.

That last two are the ones that especially filled me with sadness. Here I am, trying to celebrate the birth of our one and only King. I try to teach my children that in the end it isn't the presents that are important, yet here I am, being a hypocrite. I make the presents to be of more importance than they are or should be.

What if next year we didn't do name exchanges and just made or bought gifts for loved ones based on what we think they would like? What if next year we didn't give anyone a list who requested one? What would this teach my children? What would this teach me?

"This is Christmas: not the tinsel, not the giving and receiving, not even the carols, but the humble heart that receives anew the wondrous gift, the Christ."
- Frank McKibben

The Second...

2009-12-02T07:56:00.000-08:00

We are continuing our tradition of the 25 days of Christmas...each day we do something to prepare us further for Christmas morning...many of the things we do are things many people do (say, pick out a Christmas tree, bake cookies, wrap presents, etc), but we try to limit ourselves to one thing a day to stay true to the season and not get wrapped up in doing too much and forgetting the "Reason for the Season."

So, for day two: The above is a picture of our Christmas Pie...I have always wanted to make a mincemeat pie and stay more true to tradition, but it would just sit, so instead we went with the concept of red and green being the colors that most come to mind at Christmas time...

Red?
Well, we went with a cherry pie.

Green?
Um, yeah, lack of prep on my part...we had no green sugar, so the kids decided that instead of going without we would put blue and yellow (since they make green, of course!)

Along with that, yesterday I mentioned sipping cider...I have a favorite recipe that I would love to share with others...it is very simple and always gets rave reviews!

Crockpot Cider

1 gallon apple cider
1 t whole allspice
1 t whole cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
1/2 t salt
2 pinches ground nutmeg
4 oranges, 2 cut in quarters, 2 sliced...leave peels on!

Divide the spices up evenly and place in coffee filters...bind the filter so it is closed (food safe rubberbands work well for this). Pour the cider into a crockpot (I have a large crockpot and there is always just a smidge left that won't fit). Put the seasoning packets in the cider and add the quartered oranges. Warm on high for 3 hours. Remove the packets and turn heat to low. Right before serving, add the orange slices.

So why do I post about pie and cider?

Well, they both leave a sweet taste in our mouths, just as sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ does.

They give a sense of comfort to those who eat it, just as delving into the Bible...essentially eating the book that God has provided for us does.

They are a preparation to the celebration of the birth of the one and only King.

We are officially on our second day of joyful preparations for Christmas...while we are preparing we ask God to prepare our hearts and minds for the upcoming season...to let our preparations be ones in which we not only are preparing for Christmas, but also for Jesus' second coming...preparations that can spread beyond our realm of people we deal with on a typical day and reach out to those who don't know Christ as their personal savior.

Therefore prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.
1 Peter 1:13-16

The First...

2009-12-01T18:22:00.000-08:00

Today was a day of firsts, beyond on the date on the calendar, in our house...especially for Princess P. Above is a picture of her before going to her first day of gymnastics and below is a picture of her first day of piano lessons.

Today was a larger first for our family and that was the beginning of our preparations for Christmas...scattered among the music playing in the background and the sipping of mulled cider were my thoughts reminiscing on Christmases past. How I overdid on food, festivities and gifts and under-focused on Christ's birth. How I got too wrapped up in the tasks that I felt needed to be accomplished mainly because I had done them years prior and they seemed a necessary part of our annual routine and lost out on the true celebration.

But, last year was different:

we had no decorations less a few made of paper by the kids

we had only a paper Christmas tree that was taped up on a patio door

our Nativity scene was no where in sight

we didn't make the ten types of cookies

we didn't have people over to our home to visit

we lessened the gifts

we simply skipped the traditions that were done more out of my wanting them to happen than the family's desire to do them

And you know what?

It was wonderful! In fact, it was one of the more memorable Christmases in that we didn't get wrapped up in the foolish things that we had thought were what made Christmas special and we were better able to focus on the ONE thing that makes Christmas special. It opened my eyes to see how much the kiddos (and us adults!) enjoyed the wonderous season for its real purpose and not a single "thing" had to be done to make that happen less us talk about and rejoice in our Savior's birth.

So this year, well, we will have a tree sans the scotch tape, but I'm happy to say that a year of doing very little has made a very big impact on our family and how we will celebrate Christmas from here on out. And if we lose our way and start to get caught up in what others expect of us at this time of year, well, I found this poem to keep as a reminder:

Not Only Christmas Day

Lord, this is my prayer
Not only on Christmas Day
But until I see You face to face
May I live my life this way:

Just like the baby Jesus
I ever hope to be,
Resting in Your loving arms
Trusting in Your sovereignty.

And like the growing Christ child
In wisdom daily learning,
May I ever seek to know You
With my mind and spirit yearning.

Like the Son so faithful
Let me follow in Your light,
Meek and bold, humble and strong
Not afraid to face the night.

Nor cowardly to suffer
And stand for truth alone,
Knowing that Your kingdom
Awaits my going home.

Not afraid to sacrifice
Though great may be the cost,
Mindful how You rescued me
From broken-hearted loss.

Like my risen Savior
The babe, the child, the Son,
May my life forever speak
Of who You are and all You've done.

So while this world rejoices
And celebrates Your birth,
I treasure You, the greatest gift
Unequaled in Your worth.

I long to hear the same words
That welcomed home Your Son,
"Come, good and faithful servant,"
Your Master says, "Well done."

And may heaven welcome others
Who will join with me in praise
Because I lived for Jesus Christ
Not only Christmas Day

-- Mary Fairchild

Intentions

2009-10-29T07:05:00.001-07:00

With the best of intentions I had planned to write a beautiful post about today....I planned on taking time in the previous weeks to work on it slowly, take time to reflect on it all, and say all the right things. I planned on digging through the boxes that are packed to post a pic or two from our wedding. BUT- it didn't happen that way.

With the best of intentions I had planned on telling Bosch in a sweet romantic, possibly funny, card how he is the most amazing man, father, and leader of our family and that I never imagined years ago just how blessed I would be to have him as a husband. BUT- it didn't happen that way.

With the best of intentions I had planned on taking time to find a great gift to present to Bosch to celebrate today....something that says "this is a really big deal." BUT-it didn't happen that way.

With the best of intentions I had planned to make today our day, spending the whole day together doing something we enjoy as a couple...relaxing, fun, vegetative, whatever. BUT-it didn't happen that way.

Instead, Bosch worked all through the night, came home around 8 am for a piece of cake (yes, breakfast/cake...it is a combo that sometimes happens in our house), we opened up cards and gifts from family (not from one another...he didn't get me a card or gift either), and then he went back to work on our house. We may see glimpses of each other this evening when I go to the house to work on it...but I guarantee it will not be relaxing, all that fun, and definitely not vegetative.

BUT- I really wouldn't want to spend our 10th anniversary any other way. This is our life and we love it. Sometimes it seems that with the best of intentions we try to make something good when God has plans to make it great. I love you!

Celebrated.

2009-10-22T13:52:00.000-07:00

Meow Meow is now 8!

Princess P will soon be 5!

PP just wanted a pretty girl cake this year.

MM wanted a Mario Brothers cake...this was a very toned down version of what he wanted (I nearly fainted at the original quote from our cake lady!)

The kiddos are a year older (well, actually only MeowMeow is) and we recently celebrated. Princess P had her bday at the same time due to the house being built and an upcoming move. This is the third year we've had their party together at a local pizza joint and I must be honest...although i can't wait to welcome people into our home next year, the idea of no pre-cleaning, food preparation and post-cleaning has been more than a treat for me!

Golden

2009-10-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today is MeowMeow's golden birthday...yes, that's right, he's eight. I now understand when people who had grown children would say, "savor it...time flies by and you don't even realize it."

October 10, 2001 was about 65 degrees, very sunny and overall nice. I was working and had a 11:15 appointment with the doctor for a check-up...when we met he said wanted to induce me and to meet him at the hospital at 1:00 that same day (I was NOT prepared...I hadn't even packed a bag yet!) Needless to say, we went home, got ready to head to the hospital and the induction went fast...at 8:14 that night our sweet baby boy was with us, 7 lbs 3 oz, 20 " long.

From the moment MeowMeow was born we were reminded of Psalm 139:13: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." MeowMeow has a birthmark that not many people notice...right on his nose is a small line...it doesn't stand out but if you look, it is visible. Bosch and I have always said that when God was making our sweet little boy, that is where he finished knitting him together. To this day, every time we mention this MeowMeow gets a big smile on his face.

When he arrived we knew very little about this boy, but what we learned very quickly was that he was cute, he was always wanting to eat, and he was a poor sleeper. None of these things, in my opinion, have changed!

What I didn't know is that

he would be a child that would always fight for the underdog
he is as laid-back as Bosch
if given the opportunity he can spend 2 hours in a dollar store trying to pick out the perfect toy, knowing it will break within the first 5 minutes he brings it home
will argue a point to the extreme-so much that he is often referred to as "the negotiator"
can fight with his sister to no end, but if someone mistreats her, he will stand up for her without a second thought
loves God with all his heart
is still upset and has made it very clear to every stranger we've come in contact with over the past week that, in his words: "My mom is making me get a flu shot on my birthday...my birthday...seriously, who gives their kid a flu shot for their birthday? Happy Birthday honey, here's a flu shot. Seriously?!?"
prays more for others than himself
speaks three foreign languages...Pokemon, Bakugan and Bionicle :)
is hesitant to do things because he has to consider all the options and consequences that things may entail
is quick to laugh and is gaining quite a sense of humor, but dislikes sarcasm
has a personality that clicks with others, especially adults...often times I am told they would take him home in a heartbeat
has no issue snuggling with his mom on the couch
could play Wii 24/7 if given the chance
when he's embarrassed only his ears turn red...very cute by the way!
I see the way he watches Bosch...learning how to be a great father and husband some day
desires to grow "man hair" in his arm pits because that means he sweats and gets to wear deodorant like daddy's...all because he likes the way it smells
the list could go on and on

Every day I am learning new things about this wonderful boy. Every day I see him turning more into the person he will become in the years to come. Every year I wonder what is to come in the following 364 day and how much things will change in that time. Every year from here on out I'm going to make sure to schedule his flu shot on his birthday-I'm all about making traditions;)

Whip-it-up Quick Wednesday

2009-10-07T06:22:00.000-07:00

Wednesdays are a day that require (meal) planning to occur in our home...that or we'd all just starve...or eat Subway.

I always try to find the simplest of recipes to use on Wednesdays and that typically means I'm using my crockpot. I fill it in the morning before we start school and the rest of our crazy day and holy smokes...we've got supper when it is time.

Now, for most people who know me, this recipe seems a little out of sorts...it requires a lot of canned items. I'm more of a fresh girl, but when time is short and hunger is striking (and I haven't been to the grocery store in way too long) this recipe fits the bill.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings from Allrecipes.com modified

4 frozen skinless, boneless chicken breasts
2 T butter
2 cans of cream of (chicken, mushroom, celery...whatever...and they need not be the same)
1 onion, finely chopped (can even be dried and amount added according to rehydration instructions on the container)
2 cans mixed veggies
cumin
poultry seasoning or seasoned salt
pepper
garlic (fresh or powder)
2 (10 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough, torn into pieces

Place the frozen chicken, butter, soup, onion, veggies and seasonings in the slow cooker and fill with about 1 can of water.

Cover and cook for 5 hours on HIGH.

Take cover off chicken, shred it with two forks and add the torn biscuit dough in the slow cooker.

Cook on HIGH for another 2 hours, or until dough is no longer raw in the middle. Enjoy!

Work

2009-09-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

WORK.

The word often brings a cringe or wrinkled nose or even a deep sigh to a person when you mention this word. It is a word that can cause stress, feelings of anxiety or even dreadfulness to a person's whole-being. It is something that occupies a large majority of a person's week, year, decade, life.

But then there are people who could work every waking hour if they had a chance. No, I'm not talking about people who are labeled workaholics....I'm talking about people like my husband. Bosch, if he had the chance in his "spare time" (he'd laugh out loud if he was reading this right now, since he has none) would do more of what he does for a living, but also for a hobby. He is a carpenter by trade and loves it.

He loves building and creating and being able to spend time on small intricacies and detail. He loves working with tools (although sometimes they don't like him and he has some wounds and scars to prove it!).
He loves building things.
He loves talking about building things.
He loves reading about building things.
He loves watching things being built.
He loves showing people how to build things.
He loves when people ask him questions about building.

He loves what he does. Period.

Bosch works with ease and comfort...he moves swiftly along with his tasks and is joyful while doing it. Often times you will catch him singing (sometimes a little too loudly if he has ear safety equipment on, which always makes me smile as he doesn't realize it!) or humming while working (a sign of sure happiness)! Bosch works alone in terms of the business, but he interacts with many subcontractors and suppliers throughout every day. I have seen his peace and joy about work act as kindling and spread like wildfire to the people he comes in contact with. I have more than a few strangers come up to me and tell me how refreshing it is to work with a man like Bosch.

When Bosch returns from a day of working Princess P always asks him the same thing, "How was your work day daddy?." His reply is typically "great, good, okay" and tells the kids where he worked and what on, but a while back Bosch came home and when we sat down for dinner Bosch announced he had someone working beside him all day long...I could see the excitement on his face and in his voice of this companion... Bosch continued to tell us that this friend made his day run more smoothly than it has in a while, that everything seemed to fall in place and that his hands were merely a tool of this person's dedication to him wanting to do a job well-done. He said that although he has this friend work with him every day, this particular day it just felt more evident than others. He went on to explain that no matter what the end results were for his day, if he had been able to check off another task on his to-do list or twenty, he had worked in a way that was pleasing to God and that day he strongly felt His presence with him.

Bosch ALWAYS works in a way that is pleasing to God. He has a type of commitment to doing this that is unwavering. And believe me, he has had days where most would have said, thought, or otherwise acted in ways that would have been anything but. Every day, even though no one else is watching, Bosch does his best. He doesn't do his best to get credit or attention, but because it is a very strong way in which he shows not only his love for God, but God's love for him.

Bosch is quiet at times. He isn't one that gets involved in a lot of different things. He doesn't have a ministry at our church that he is a leading part of. At times I have become frustrated with this. Bosch, on the other hand, has never mentioned concern about this. At all. After nearly 10 years of marriage it finally became clear to me the other night. Bosch's form of ministry is one that reaches to the community. Because this is his livelihood, because of the passion he has and the abilities he was given to pursue them as an occupation, he reaches a large, diverse group of people. They see him work and through him they see what loving God and having a loving God is about.

I felt a little guilty for not having fully realized this until recently. I viewed it more in terms of it being his occupation and less in terms of his way of reaching people...but working together on our house opened my eyes to what He's up to in my husband. It's more than doing something so we can pay the bills. It's more than doing something so we can save for college-funds. It's more than doing something so we can have a sense of security. I pray that as his wife I can better lift him up so that he can do what God has planned for him.

Work is love made visible. Keep working with love. - Anonymous

With the best of intentions....

2009-09-26T06:06:00.000-07:00

I had planned on taking a few minutes and posting pics about the kids first day of school....

I had planned on posting about our "camping" trip to Terry-Andrae (which really consisted of us just building a fire, roasting hot dogs and the kids playing in the lake)...

I had planned on posting about our house, which I really haven't done yet...

I had planned on posting about how we are currently homeschooling on a really crazy schedule because of the house (including school on Saturdays...and the kids aren't minding it one bit)...

But first, a little background to the post at hand:

You see, Princess P and MeowMeow are currently sharing a bedroom...this was fun for all of 1/2 a night. Bosch decided if anyone (including us) was ever going to fall asleep before midnight that the two kiddos would need to be separated (aka, one would fall asleep in their own bed, one would fall asleep in our bed) and then we'd transfer one of them back into their bedroom once all were sleeping.

An update to the background of the post at hand:

It has worked, but there have been issues with Princess P vandalizing our bedroom (alarm clocks reset or turn off, one day she went through all my jewelry, one day we found her asleep, no clothes on and using a pillowcase for a sleeping bag--it was the perfect size)!

And now, welcome back to the post at hand:

Well, from what I gathered amongst the tears when she was "found out"- Princess P knew she was in trouble the minute Bosch opened the bathroom door- she wanted nail polish on her fingers and toes. So what does any 4 year old do? Well, she went under the sink and grabbed some nail polish and had at it.

Apparently the quality of her work wasn't up to par, so she decided to remove it and start over.
She pushed a hamper over to a closet in the bathroom and proceeded to get acetone to remove the nail polish. I know she is tall, but I still can't figure out just how she reached this as it is up high...and to be honest, I prefer not to know at this point.

I wish I would have taken more pics, but the concern of not knowing where acetone had all reached on her little body took over and I became more concerned with safety (and bedtimes...this kid wears me out!)

So, the worst is over, right?:

So, there I was, on my hands and knees cleaning up the floor (nail polish was sprayed all over, there were qtips, cotton balls and toilet paper soaked in acetone) and Bosch was talking to Princess P in the other bathroom while cleaning her up.

Okay...I can hear him talking to her. He is calmly explaining that things like acetone are still "no touch" and we just want her to be safe...

Then I stand up and go to the sink to wash off my hands:

What is that in the sink? No, it can't be...I run into the bathroom where Princess P and Bosch are all cool, calm and collect and like a mad woman, I start straightening her hair to where it belongs and sure enough...

So instead, I am posting about this:

Apparently a mani/pedi wasn't enough for this sassy little girl, so she decided to give herself a haircut too. Where she cut the bangs are pretty obvious. Right on the sides of her face she cut a good 3-4 inches off...

Conclusion to this post:
We are going to the salon at noon...they are fitting us in despite there already being a wedding party and a ton of homecoming appointments and everyone's day being filled...we've already been warned we may have to wait depending on how things go. I'm okay with waiting as I'm not okay with her current haircut.

Prayers for Bennet and his family...

2009-09-23T09:26:00.001-07:00

Every once in a while a story is brought to my attention. A few years back I doubt someone would have passed a story such as the following my way, but ever since Jason and Heather received Owen's diagnoses people have been more apt to let me know when they are aware of stories where babies with insurmountable odds against them are soon-to-be born.

The following is one of those stories. I do not know this couple or their extended family. What I do know is that God had, even before Bennet's arrival, done great works in this couple's life. Long story short...they received a terminal diagnosis, they chose to terminate the pregnancy, but the husband's insurance wouldn't allow it. Read the whole story HERE.

After you read the story, take the few extra seconds and please click HERE.

I'm in love.

2009-09-22T17:17:00.001-07:00

Love is a strong word...I typically encourage Princess P and MeowMeow to say how much they "like" something versus "love" something. That said, I love my crockpot and I love autumn, and the two seem to make a nice match!

There are so many reasons I love my crockpot...convenience, simplicity, energy efficiency, just to name a few...but the reason I love it most is because it can make the house house smell so delicious! Now this can go the other way too, say when I'm making 40 clove chicken (I have learned to put the crockpot out in the garage to alleviate that problem now).

I used to think my crockpot was meant for only Cowboy Beans and the occasional roast....I now know its versatility. This past year I have learned how to make yogurt, cake, and solid hot chocolate (imagine a gooey chocolate brownie baked in a coffee mug and slathered with whipped cream).....oh, if only I would have learned these things earlier in life and had experimented more, I may not have bought a stove for the new house!

There are a few new crockpot recipes I'm going to be trying out in the next week or two: Pound Cake with a Sour Cherry Topping, Crustless Pumpkin Pie, and Apple Dumplings. Nothing says autumn to me like pumpkin or apple recipes!

Tonight I have something in my crockpot (and can I just say that I wish my house smelled the way it does right now every other day of the year?!?) that has become a first day of autumn tradition in our house. Bosch and I are going on 10 years of wedded bliss next month, but I can assure you he still hasn't caught on to this tradition...that said, he still seems to enjoy it every year! I don't follow a strict recipe (aren't those the best kinds?!?), but here's a swing at it (I tried to measure the best I could). If you are the kind of person that requires a well-written recipe, this is NOT the recipe for you!

CROCKPOT GRANOLA

You must have a large crockpot...it should only be 3/4 of the way full when the entire recipe is made...maybe a 5 qt?

6 c rolled oats (not the quick version)
1 c wheat germ
throw in some flax seeds (maybe 1/4 cups or a little less)
1 cup nuts (i typically put in slivered almonds and whole pecans)
1 c dried fruit (I use cranberries and some raisins...golden if I have them)
pumpkin pie spice (about a teaspoon) or a combo of cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice to your liking
1 cup honey (yeah, it is a lot but we like chunk granola, not cereal-like granola...if you like cereal style see my note below)
1/2 c butter (I want to try coconut oil but haven't yet)
a popsicle/craft stick or chopstick

First off, if you like cereal-style granola, cut the honey and butter down to 1/4 cup each...

Okay, so first, just throw all the dry ingredients into the crockpot.

Melt the butter in the microwave and then stir in the honey well...Pour on top the dry ingredients and mix it all together well. (I've tried melting the butter in the crockpot and it takes too long!)

Turn the crockpot on high and cover...but put the popsicle stick in the lid opening the wide way to hold he lid open some (and let steam get out and prevent soggy granola). Stir it when you start to smell it and every once in a while thereafter...the stronger the smell the more often you should start stirring...I do it about every 45 minutes at the beginning and whenever i get a good whiff of the granola thereafter...

Lay out on wax, parchment or even cut open brown bags to cool, store in an air-tight container.

I'll be honest...I'd take a picture, but I'd just sneak a bite or two or twenty of the granola and I want to wait til it is finished to eat it...and I already know I won't get a chance once it is made!

Secret Revealed!

2009-09-10T17:56:00.000-07:00

I'd really like to post the video we took of the reveal, but blogger isn't letting me (I even did an edit down to 50 vs 100 with no luck), so for now, here are just a few pics of our first full day.

It started out with a tummy-filling breakfast at the Whispering Canyon (the waitresses are sassy, throwing your napkins and straws at you) and do funny things: if you ask for ketchup they yell it real loud and everyone that has a ketchup at their table brings it over to you (typically you end up with about 20 bottles)...they also had pony rides (of the wooden variety) around the restaurant, do the hokey pokey, and will bring you a gallon sized mason jar with your drink of choice if you drink the first one too quickly as they will say you are too difficult a customer and they aren't coming back to the table every 5 minutes to give you a refill.

We had the opportunity of a lifetime to raise the flags on top of our hotel the first morning. It is only allowed if the weather permits (thankfully it was nice out)! We met up with the Ranger that day, Mr. Stan, a delightful sweet, kind man who, as he stated, loves America and pretty ladies ;) He handed out the five flags to us and we started our journey. A key-entry only 7th floor
elevator ride, followed by climbing 4 flights of stairs that have lookouts at their crow's nests led us to our ultimate location...the rooftop! We raised the flags, said the Pledge of Allegience, got our pictures taken with Mr. Stan, had our picture taken by Mr. Stan, got a certificate from the hotel describing our rare opportunity and made memories to last a lifetime...and the views weren't all that bad either.

Note: The "smoke" picture is actually of the electric company that Disney has that is prepared at anytime to provide enough electricity to run the entire thing, from Magic Kingdom to Animal Kingdom, you name it in Disney.

Note 2: The picture with Mt Everest shows the distance...It is in the haze on the left hand side way out there. It was 7.5 miles away from the hotel. Past that Disney owns another 20 sq miles of land that has no plans at this time but is being held for future parks.

Shhhhh...It's a secret!

2009-09-01T05:41:00.001-07:00

Did you ever have a secret...just between you and maybe one or two other people? Well, I have one right now and currently I'm sharing it between my parents and Bosch and a few other people who are good at keeping secrets. Something exciting is going on and two little people who are unknowingly involved in this secret will find out all about it this afternoon... :)

Months ago (January?) plans were made...last month things were purchased....last week lists were created....last night bags were packed and snuck into the minivan...

Consider yourself semi-involved in a great, fun secret and you'll learn much more about it when I get a chance to post the big surprise being revealed!

Wait on the Lord...

2009-08-24T06:54:00.001-07:00

MeowMeow and Princess P have a favorite singer...Casting Crowns? Nope. Chris Tomlin? Sorry. Some of the kids that are on their Kids worship cd? Not even them.

The singer they like is one we found on what was then GodTube and his name is Coffey. It all started with trying to find different versions of Open the Eyes of My Heart that included acoustic guitar. Coffey fit the bill and the kids then wanted to hear every song he sang that they were familiar with after that.

Thing is, today I came across a song I've never seen before from him...funny, since I thought we had exhausted all our options, but there it was, from 2007!

For some reason it is not letting me put the video here (I'm a bit technically challenged at times, but more than anything, I'm not willing to sit here for the next 40 minutes trying to figure it out), so I've provided a link instead.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78WwpAxk6dE

Something Simple.

2009-08-23T12:10:00.000-07:00

Ever have the task of doing something simple and suddenly it turns into a big thing? Something that consumes more time than ever imagined, possibly more money than you preferred, or something that, for whatever reason, you now have a vested interest in. I have plenty of occasions in my life where looking back the only thing I could say was "What was I thinking?!?" Thing is, I continue to do it, often, in my life. I sometimes get lost in the simplicity of it all and make it more than it should be... and with that... I lose some of the moments I could just be enjoying those simple things.

That's one, of the many, reasons I love my kids. And to be honest, my husband as well. They can just do a task, do it well and then move on to the next thing. What I love even more (especially about Bosch) is that he has a knack for making simple things, sometimes boring things, fun.

So, when the idea of a car wash, let's say, presents itself as a task needing to be done, once could:

1. Drive to the nearest car wash and get it over and done with (my personal choice).
2. Complain about it, ignore it, avoid it, "forget" about it needing to be done.
3. Make it a whole bunch of fun and a great memory (Bosch's choice).

Well, here are just a few pics of what is occurring outside of our apartment as I type (which, by the way, I shouldn't really be doing right now, but I have to utilize option #2 above somehow in regards to preparing for the upcoming school year...my real task right now!)

This first pic isn't anything unusual...just PP washing Bosch's work van, right? But wait! What is she sitting on? How can she be washing the top of anything?!?

Well, let me zoom out a bit for you so you can get the bigger picture...the reason a car wash seems like so much fun to do today!

Yeah, unlike Mama, she isn't afraid of heights...or much of anything. I only wish I wouldn't have turned to go back in the house (mainly to prevent the heart attack that felt like it was oncoming, seeing my dear sweet little girl up in the air), because that stream of water was quickly turned directly on MM and Bosch just then!

They all decided to join in on the fun.

To be a fly on our wall!

2009-08-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

My original intent with The Lilypad was to post nearly every day...something small, a few pics, a short blurb, whatever. I wanted this to be a diary of sorts for my kids and us...a diary of our family. Instead, we've been so busy living life I haven't had time to post about it! I consider that to be a good thing.

I've also come to realize that I can make up for lost time in posts by putting up slideshows (did you notice!?!)...they are my crutch for this crazy-busy time in our lives...I won't typically post slideshows once every other week to make up for lost time, but for now, that is how it is going to happen, so if you are someone besides my immediate family who views this, well, deal with it :)

That said, there's A LOT going on at The Lilypad...good things, great things, amazing things...if only I could share it all with you now. I strongly feel He is saying it is not yet time to reveal what He has been laying before us as of late to people outside of our small hulahoop...not even those we love so dearly. Well, look on the bright-side, at least there's another slideshow to show some of what we were up to when we headed up north a couple of weekends ago as consolation!

Fish and frogs

2009-08-05T07:14:00.000-07:00

Over the past weekend the kiddos wanted to go on a nature "hike" and stop at a local trout farm to feed the fish. Bosch had taken the kids earlier in the summer to do this while I was busy planning for the upcoming school year and they really wanted me to go along and check it out this time.

First off, the day was beautiful for it. The kids had a blast as Bosch has found a great location for frog hunting and walking (and let's just be honest....Bosch had a blast to hunting for frogs too...he is a kid at heart!)

After the walk we drove to the trout farm...the kids once again loved it. Me? Well, these were the words that came to mind: gross, disgusting, nasty, stinky...did I already say gross? The fish were highly aggressive in wanting to get the food (which was the stinky part) and there weren't just a few fish...they literally were piled on top of one another. Well, the trout farm is something I will never forget...seriously, I had a dream about the fish that night...I was traumatized!

Summer is flying by and I can't keep up!

2009-07-28T05:55:00.000-07:00

I can't keep up on posts, that is! We have had so many fun things we've done this summer. Fall is my favorite season, but summer is a close second!

Crazy Love

2009-07-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

I have been reading http://www.crazylovebook.com/ (actually, I'm on my third round of reading it because good books are like good movies to me...the more I view them, the more I catch).

There are a few sections from this book that are just like great bricks I'm laying on the foundation set before me in the Bible:

Per Chan's book:
Worry implies that we don't quite trust that God is big enough,
powerful enough, or loving enough to take care of what's happening in our
lives.
Stress says that the things we are involved in are important enough to merit
our impatience, our lack of grace towards others, or our tight grip of control.

Basically, these two behaviors communicate that it's okay to sin and not trust
God because the stuff in my life is somehow exceptional. Both worry and
stress reek of arrogance. p42

To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance. Proverbs 8:13

Ugh. I understand the strength of the word hate. Hate is not a word used lightly in our house. We can dislike something somewhat easily, but in our house, to hate something drives strong emotional ties to it. Add to that, I'm a worrier and I get stressed out (typically as a result of all my foolish worrying)! I know I shouldn't, I have pages dogeared in my Bible that tell me that and I read them with full confidence in their truth, yet I struggle. I want to trust God. Some days I'm better at it than others. I know in my heart that He is in control. Most days I am a sinner trying to understand why it is that I can't let go of the control I perceive I have, yet honestly know doesn't exist...

Then, I worry about how much I worry...seriously.

Less than 10 pages before that Chan also had this to say:

God is fair and just...God is the only Being who is good, and the standards
are set by Him. Because God hates sin, He has to punish those guilty of sin.
Maybe that's not an appealing standard. BUT to put it bluntly, when you get
your own universe, you can make your own standards. When we disagree,
let's not assume it's His reasoning that needs correction. p 34

Wow. I have been needing to hear that a lot lately. I have reread those two particular pages more times in the past few weeks than I care to mention. I am sure to focus on the hatred that God has for my worrying and stress...this is not forgotten or ignored...but I am drawn to this excerpt for the last sentence especially as of late. I have mentioned on more than one occasion my love of neon signs, leading me to what I should do in particular situations. I have been praying for a neon sign for one particular situation for years now. I have taken Chan's words and replaced one with my own.

Let's not assume it's His timing that needs correction.

I love to read the Bible, but sometimes I start to think a bit too hard about what I'm reading from it as it is so important to me...Sometimes it takes books like this, books written from a perspective of another sinner in wording like what I would hear from a close friend, to shed light on what I already know from a book from my best friend.

Fish Part 3

2009-07-27T04:30:00.000-07:00

So, not long ago we ventured out in to the wild to catch our dinner. Well, that's stretching the truth a bit...okay...a lot! We went to a nearby lake to have the kiddos get a chance to go fishing.

Now, history shows that the only time even one of these kiddos will fish past 5 minutes before they get bored, the fish aren't biting, it's too hot or too cold outside, so on so forth...is when their uncle takes them on a boat...the day we took them fishing confirmed this.

Still, it was a nice day and we were together, and even the kids knew that that was what really mattered (and at this point I have almost completely forgotten the ride home and the very possible chance they begged us for ice cream or something else as a consolation prize!)

Cake and Brownies for dinner...Mmmmm!

2009-07-21T08:00:00.001-07:00

Chewy, gooey, fudgy, chocolate frosting, powdered sugar...the list of words that come to mind when I think of brownies...

Okay, but what about the word savory?

Savory and brownies have never crossed my mind...until last evening. You see, we are a breakfast supper kind of family. About once a week we do it...sometimes just scrambled eggs, skillet potatoes and sausage, sometimes pancakes, sometimes quiche....last night was a wing-it moment and I didn't want to go with what I had planned but I also had some veggies from the farm I needed to use, so I whipped up something new (I went along the lines of the little appetizer bites I've made in the past) to go along with a blueberry coffee cake I had made.

We ended up eating cake and brownies for supper and the kiddos couldn't have been happier!

Here's the recipe I whipped together (these measurements are approximate as I was throwing stuff together in a mad panic to get our meal ready before t-ball!):

Savory Brownies Serves 12

1 large bag of spinach, chopped up
8 oz pkg mushrooms, sliced
a bunch of green onions, sliced thinly
1 1/4 c all-purpose flour (I will try ww flour next time, but wasn't sure how it would pan out)
1 1/2 t baking powder
3 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 c butter, melted
8 oz mozz, shredded

Preheat oven to 375. Spray a 9x13.

Cut up mushrooms and onions. Put on a microwavable plate. Top the mushrooms and onions with the chopped up spinach (I suppose you could use frozen that has been thawed). Microwave approx 2 minutes, til the spinach is soft.

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl.

Transfer to the baking dish. Bake about 30 minutes. Slice and serve warm.

NOTE: the oven at the apartment is NOT good...I had to bake this at 400 for about 25 minutes and cranked it up to 450 for the last 5 minutes, so my 375 for a decent working oven at 30 minutes is an educated guess!

Fish Part 2

2009-07-14T12:14:00.001-07:00

Princess P loves to swim underwater with her eyes open.

As I've said before, the kiddos love to swim. This year has been a year of firsts for our family in terms of swimming, especially for MM.

He has been able to pass the swim test at the Aquatic Center nearly every day we go (he has to swim in the lap lane in correct form...I've seen the lifeguards deny plenty of kids who have made it across in a decent amount of time because of incorrect form). I give kudos to the teachers at MM's swim lessons for that!
He can go down the "Big Kid" slide and jump off the diving board because passing of the swim test.
He has gotten more freedom to swim and play with his friends at the pool. To be honest, I continue to look to find him periodically...the only time the tables turn and MM is looking for me is on the off-chance he thinks he may be able to get an ice cream cone!
He has made new friends (there seems to be a lot of "regulars" at the Aquatic Center!) that didn't involve me somehow making that opportunity happen (playdates, school stuff, organized sports, etc).

While MM has had this year of great growth in freedoms, Princess P is having a year of waiting.

She needs to be 48" tall to go across the lilypads and down the swirly-slide.
She needs to be 50" before she can take swimming lessons.
She isn't allowed to roam freely at the Aquatic Center because she isn't old enough.

And you know what? She doesn't seem to mind the waiting one bit...in fact, I think she is appreciating and enjoying that she gets one-on-one time with Mama or Bosch while at the pool. That is, of course, if she doesn't get together with her pool friends and leaves us on the sidelines of the shallow end too!

MeowMeow and Princess P at the Aquatic Center '09

Fish Part 1

2009-07-13T05:22:00.000-07:00

Both MM and Princess P have been comfortable in the water since the first time we let them kick their feet around in it. MeowMeow figured out how to swim (I'm not talking certifiable swim technique, but he could hold his own both above and under water) at about the age of three and Princess P was even earlier. In fact, one day we were at the pool and PP was telling Bosch that she wanted to do water like MM...when Bosch asked what she meant, she proceeded to go underwater and hold her breath for almost 5 seconds!

Every year we buy a family pass to the local Aquatic Center and it is paid for in less than two weeks..we are there nearly every day! The pics above are from last year at the pool.

A good idea vs a God idea.

2009-07-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

When something you desire is really something that God also desires for you? How does a person discern between the two? How can you know that things aren't just coincidence? How can you know you aren't just skewing things to make it seem as though God is showing you favor about something you want. How do you know whether your perception is really what God is intending for you to do in your life?

How do you tell a good idea vs a God idea?

I have an issue (well, in truth, I have more than one, but I can't imagine laying it ALL out in one post...that would be draining!) and I'm fully aware of it. My issue? I like neon signs. Weird you say? Well, I'm one of "those" people that prefers a neon sign of sorts from God leading me in the right direction.

I'm not afraid of making mistakes....I am aware I am fallible...yet, I look back to many of the "big" moments in my life and God has given me neon signs and all turned out well... and I think I've fallen in love with the concept. In the past I would pray to God about what is on my mind, we'd have intimate conversations while I take showers (hey, it is one place where I rarely get bothered and have true quiet time!) and, with time, a very obvious path with flashing yellow lights on an arrow would be set before me. It worked out well...for me.

As I continue to get older, these neon signs have lessened.

Perhaps God is making me wait longer and learn to be more patient? Sure, possibly.
Perhaps I am having less moments that require neon signs? Could be.
Perhaps my eyes aren't open to them? Possibly.
Perhaps I have grown in my relationship with Him and it's time to place more confidence in Him and that He is in control no matter the situation vs the neon signs He once provided to me when I was younger? I'm currently leaning toward this one:)

I also think of how I am with my kids...they can try something 10 times, 100 times, or what feels like a thousand times before the get it. For me as their mom? It is exhausting. It is frustrating. I often times want to just step in and give my kids their own "neon sign" to make it work out right...but I don't.

I let them struggle. I let them fail. I let them wait and figure out what comes next because I want them to appreciate the end result.

I can't imagine how God must feel with all of us children! Some of us struggle, we fail, we get frustrated and question His commitment to the relationship, we question His choices and why someone we wrongfully make the opinion of being less-worthy than ourselves (how foolish, right?!?) can be blessed with the gift we so desire while we sit and wait, we can even get to the point we beg and argue for that "neon sign," yet with all the immaturity we display? He loves us. He has a plan for us and despite our behavior, he stays true to His plans for us.

Now some may have read the last few sentences and may have been put off...well, I'm more than willing to admit there have been times in my life where I have done ALL those things...and to add to that? I have done more than a few of those things recently. And you know what? He STILL loves me ... and even though I question Him, I really do know in my heart that God is good ALL the time.

It's been a while since I posted...

2009-07-10T08:44:00.001-07:00

Summers just seem to fly by in our household (or should I say outside as we rarely spend any time indoors during the summer!)

Here are a few pics from the past week or two:

Mmmm Monday!

2009-06-29T13:10:00.000-07:00

Last year I opened my share box (I do a worker share at a local CSA) and saw something unusual. Green, curled up, almost looking like a piece of edible art... I walked over to another worker and asked them what it was and how to use it. I was immediately informed that the unknown "thing" was garlic scapes. When you think scapes, simply think stems...they taste nearly identical to garlic cloves, but are a little less pungent. I was also informed that they are typically used in stir-fry.

Well, we don't make a whole lot of stir-frys in my house, so I wanted to find alternative uses for them...I love garlic and couldn't imagine these puppies going to waste.

Here are the best recipes I've found thus far. I particularly love this first one because it has so few ingredients and makes for a 10 minute meal or side dish:

GARLIC SCAPE PESTO PENNE 6-8 servings

10 or so garlic scapes
1/2 c to 1 1/2 c fresh grated Parm
1/3 c nuts (macadamia, almond or walnut)
1/2 c evoo
Sea salt (optional)
bag of Racconto 8 whole grain Penne (found at Piggly Wiggly in Plymouth)

Take the scapes, 1/2 c Parm, nuts and evoo and put in food processor. Whir until well blended. Add additional evoo, parm (I typically use all 1 1/2 c to tone down the scapes) and salt to taste.

Make Penne according to bag and then mix in pesto. Serve immediately.

This pesto can be frozen for up to 6 months, preferably in glass.

SCAPE HUMMUS

2 cans chickpeas (drain, but set aside some "juice")
12 or so scapes
3 T evoo
1/3 c sesame seeds

Combine all in a food processor. Whir until well blended. Add chickpea "juice" if you like your hummus a bit thinner.

T-ball Time

2009-06-17T08:40:00.000-07:00

This year is MeowMeow's 3rd year and Princess P's first year of T-Ball. We really love the opportunity it provides for all kids in the area to participate twice a week during the summer months in learning the sport of baseball and it all happens at a very minimal cost to families because they ask for sponsors. Because of this we decided last year to sponsor a team. Well, with two kids in it now, we decided to sponsor two teams and they just happen to be on the teams we are supporting.

MeowMeow was very excited as he had outgrown his glove from the past years and was able to get a new one...He is a very go-with-the-flow sort of kid and because he has done this before, he was just excited to be able to get out there and play.

Princess P has been a spectator for the past few years and thought that it was pretty neat that she didn't have to sit on the sidelines anymore or play on the same team as MeowMeow. She especially liked that now relatives could come and watch her play too (she is a bit of a ham after all!).

After their first practice, the coach was handing out all the "stuff"...t-shirts, picture day info, schedules, etc. when Princess P came running up to me, drowning in her new team shirt like all her other pint-sized teammates, all confused...."Mama," she said...."Why does my shirt have my name on it?"

Baking + Princess P = FUN!

2009-06-17T08:23:00.000-07:00

Bosch had the urge for cookies last week. I was busy in the kitchen making all things rhubarb (which in my world equals all things sweet: pies, cakes, muffins, breads, sauces)....Because of my time spent in the kitchen making these things I told Bosch he was on his own to make cookies.

Well, Bosch doesn't mind working in the kitchen (give him a good recipe and he can make anything), but he thought it would be fun to recruit the other lady in the house who really loves to bake... Princess P has a unique style to her cooking. She really gets into the process, smelling, tasting, and observing what all goes into what she is making and enjoys every step it takes to make it (especially cracking eggs, which she accomplishes by squeezing them...it is an interesting sight to see)!

I missed getting a few pics of her making and mixing the dough...oh well!

Here is her typical posed smile when she first sees the camera is out.

Princess P getting into the texture of the dough between her hands.

Princess P deciding that the dough feels a bit slimy...and she likes it.

The finished product, with Bosch assisting her.

I would have taken a picture of the cookies being enjoyed, but I didn't get to it in time...apparently the cookies were good....REALLY good!

Top 100 kids books

2009-06-11T15:19:00.000-07:00

Here's a list I came across...I'm in full agreement with a lot of these and surprised that we haven't read quite a few (or at least I don't recognize the title, but maybe once I looked at the book I'd remember it, which you can do for most of the book titles in my post....just scroll over the title!) :12, 15, 17, 36, 44, 46, 48, 54, 74, 88 and 94...

I also haven't read the Harry Potter Series with my kids and a few others on the list, but I have read them. I also smiled when I saw#72...and agree (if not for the stories, they all should be looked at for the beautiful illustrations!).

#39 was one of my favorite books as a child...I never grew tired of, and loved, the last page. The kiddos are spending time with their grandpa and grandma through the weekend...and this book still has a special little bookshelf that it rests on in their home, waiting to be picked up and read again and again.

I love to read with my kids (and I LOVE it when MeowMeow picks up a book and reads to Princess P)...it is always so sweet to see them snuggled up together enjoying a book the way their Mama does!

Do you have a favorite kids book you'd be willing to recommend to me that isn't on this list?

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss
Good Night Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
I Love You Forever by Robert N. Munsch
Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
Oh! The Places You Will Go by Dr. Seuss
The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Skippyjon Jones by Judy Schachner
Thank You Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco
The Cat In The Hat by Dr. Seuss
The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo
The Mitten by Jan Brett
Crunching Carrots, Not Candy by Judy Slack
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willlems
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst
Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman
Corduroy by Don Freeman
Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes
Stellaluna by Janell Cannon
Tacky the Penquin by Helen Lester
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr.
Click Clack Moo: Cows That Type Doreen Cronin
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson
Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss
Junie B. Jones by Barbara Park
Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Make Way For Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
Piggie Pie by Margie Palatini
The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper
The Monster at the End of this Book by Jon Stone
The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett
From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
Inkheart by Cornelia Funke
Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli
Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathmann
Olivia by Ian Falconer
The BFG by Roald Dahl
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Tikki Tikki Tembo by Arlene Mosel
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Bark, George by Jules Feiffer
Bunnicula by James Howe
The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Charlie the Caterpillar by Dom DeLuise
Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary
Frederick by Leo Lionni
Frindle by Andrew Clements
Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney
Harris and Me by Gary Paulsen
Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion
Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss
How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss
I Love You, Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt
Is Your Mama A Llama? by Deborah Guarino
Jan Brett’s books
Knots on a Counting Rope by Bill Martin Jr.
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton
Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney
My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett
My Many Colored Days by Dr. Seuss
My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George
No David! by David Shannon
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss
Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein
Stephanie’s Ponytail by Robert Munsch
Swimmy by Leo Lionni
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes
The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Warner
The Dark Is Rising by Susan Cooper
The Empty Pot by Demi
The Five Chinese Brothers by Claire Huchet Bishop
The Giver by Lois Lowr
The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Important Book by Margaret Wise Brown
The Last Holiday Concert by Andrew Clements
The Napping House by Audrey Wood
The Quiltmaker’s Gift by Jeff Brumbeau
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
The Story About Ping by Marjorie Flack
The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

True or False Tuesday

2009-06-09T06:38:00.000-07:00

1. Apples, not caffeine, are more efficient at waking you up in the morning.

2. Alfred Hitchcock didn't have a belly button.

3. A pack-a-day smoker will lose approximately 2 teeth every 10 years.

4. People do not get sick from cold weather; it's from being indoors a lot more.

5. When you sneeze, all bodily functions stop, even your heart!

6. Only 7 percent of the population are lefties.

7. 40 people are sent to the hospital for dog bites every minute.

8. Babies are born without kneecaps. They don't appear until they are 2-6 years old.

9. The average person over 50 will have spent 5 years waiting in lines.

10. The toothbrush was invented in 1498.

11. The average housefly lives for one month.

12. 40,000 Americans are injured by toilets each year.

13. A coat hanger is 44 inches long when straightened.

14. The average computer user blinks 7 times a minute.

15. Your feet are bigger in the afternoon than any other time of day.

16. Most of us have eaten a spider in our sleep.

17. The REAL reason ostriches stick their head in the sand is to search for water.

18. The only two animals that can see behind themselves with out turning their heads are the rabbit and the parrot.

19. John Travolta turned down the starring Roles in "An Officer and a Gentleman" and "Tootsie."

20. Michael Jackson owns the rights to the South Carolina State anthem.

21. In most television commercials advertising Milk, a mixture of white paint and a little thinner is used in place of the milk.

22. Prince Charles and Prince William NEVER travel on the same airplane, just in case there is a crash.

23. The first Harley Davidson motorcycle built in 1903 used a tomato can for a carburetor.

24. Many hospitals make money by selling the umbilical cords cut from women who give birth. They are used in vein transplant surgery.

25. Humphrey Bogart was related to Princess Diana. They were 7th cousins.

26. If coloring weren't added to Coca-Cola, it would be green.

Answers are posted in the comments!

Our Lilypad Today

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A chance at a great GIVEAWAY!

(Gluten) Free Fridays

Quotes and Things.

An Amazingly Fun Giveaway!

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The Winter Playhouse

(Gluten) Free Fridays

A day with books...

When did this happen?

"START! The Bible for New Believers”

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!

Giveaway!

An Update...

A Letter...and A Request...

Christmas Traditions

A Post-Birthday Post

My Baby is 6

You may have noticed...

A Book Sure to Stay in Our Home

Eleven Years

istinkatblogging.com

Family Vacation 2010 Day 2

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First Day of School 2010

Cousins

Up North 2010

First tooth lost!

The kids are at their grandpa and grandma's...

Still can't post pics for some reason...

Houston, we have a problem...

Helmet Hair

Still here...

Safety Town 2010

In Honor

Year-End

Mother's Day

For my husband

Start your engines

Fitting in

Happy Half Birthday Princess!

Is honesty really always the best policy?

A simple thought to ponder

Like a weed...

Wheat-free Wednesday

Mmmmmm Monday!

The weekend my house threw up...

Sleep...

He is Risen!

The Last Supper

Jesus is Crucified

Jesus Dies and Is Buried

Jesus is Risen!

Wheat-free 101

Ummmm, so I haven't posted in a *while*...

Through the 17th....and the anticipation of a delivery.

The Eleventh AND Twelfth AND Thirteenth.

The Tenth...

The Ninth...

The Eighth...

The Seventh...

The Sixth...

The Fifth...

The Fourth...

The Third...

The Second...

The First...

Intentions

Celebrated.

Golden

Whip-it-up Quick Wednesday

Work

Ummmm, so I haven't posted in a while...