Mother's Day
I'm feeling loved and cherished by all my boys this Mother's Day. I spent almost all day abed, with coffee and books.
And I've read some mothering encouragement the past few days that I'd like to pass along. The first is from Camille, with Scripture and medieval mommy-inspiration from Martin Luther.
Karen writes a mother's day tribute to both her mother and her daughter, and the journeys the Lord has walked the three of them through.
I was able to have a long, enjoyable conversation with my own Mom yesterday. So much I'm thankful for, so much I appreciate, so much I see of her in me. . . so much to say that just can't be written online. I love you, Mom.
May 11, 2008 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
To My Parents
Happy anniversary, with much love!
May 10, 2008 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Sarasota Reds vs. Daytona Cubs
We joined the other families in our homeschool baseball team for a game at Ed Smith Stadium tonight. Our team won, and our family had a fun. The whole atmosphere of the game was great; the cool fresh air, the excitement, the game announcer's voice reverberating, the hot dogs. . . I remember my folks bringing us to a game in Racine when I was growing up. It was the same thing. Minor league games are are the best. (And the boys understood a lot more now that they've been playing baseball, compared to their first taste of the classic American sport.)
May 08, 2008 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
I'm an Auntie
These three precious little ones were born within a month of each other. Twin girls in one family, and a firstborn son in the other. And yes, I've volunteered to babysit! My boys seem so BIG when I see these newborns.
May 06, 2008 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Sunday Afternoon Meanderings. . .
We've been continuing our mellow-weathered springtime. The lanai is still our makeshift office, and the kids are running around in the backyard or swimming in the pool for hours each day.
I finished up this semester's classes with a sigh of relief. I toyed with the idea of not taking any classes in the summer, but scheduling wise have ended up with two--Statistics and the Psychology of Religion. Ought to be interesting, to say the least. (And challenging--statistics, to me, is like a foreign language. Requires a lot of work and repetition before things "click.") Speaking of, I'm also having my Russian language skills evaluated in a few weeks. I'm a little nervous about that. I can have long and ongoing conversations in my head in Russian, but tend to stumble over my tongue when I try to speak. That, and my listening comprehension. . . well. . . it's slow even in English! Classes start the week after next, so I'm trying to fit in some "fun" reading this week. Not exactly light reading, but Samuel Martin's book is on my to-read list (and it is now available in electronic format at no charge!)
T10 has had an ongoing fascination with whales for several years. He's read all the books on whales and related species at the library (and even pointed out errors in some.) I could totally see him out on a boat with a beard and binoculars and a notebook, like the cetologist on a video we watched. Last year we went to Shedd Aquarium with Mo and Papa John, and T10's special gift there was a book on how to become a marine animal trainer. Since then his obsession seems to have waned to mere fascination. . . Yesterday after watching Shamu and seeing the other dolphins, whales, porpoises, walruses and myriad sea creatures, he's again certain that he wants to work with and study sea creatures. I know that there are padi scuba lessons for kids as young as 12, but I'm so nervous about that--even if it is a few years away. Our neighbor is a scientist at Mote Marine Laboratory. I'd like to look into what volunteer opportunities would be age-appropriate and work within our schedule. Or, maybe we'll start with the Saturday morning program--that would be a fun Mommy-Son date.
We pretty much do year-round homeschooling, with lull times when Hubby or I are at the end-of-semester crunch, holidays and trips. But I think it is time to reassess the school books we are using and refocus on our education goals with our children. The boys have been learning by leaps and bounds. The most exciting thing is that C7 made the great leap from beginning reading to avid reading. They are all readers! That is so reassuring. Still, it's time for assessment and decisions.
The boys are still active with their Young Conservatives of Our Neighborhood club with the neighbor kids. They are in the beginning stages of planning a 9/11 remembrance service. It has been interesting watching them take a broad idea, and then walking them through breaking it up into little steps.
My morning glories have not yet sprouted, but Kathy's roses are blooming.
Life is good.
May 04, 2008 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Sea World!
Tomorrow is our much anticipated family trip to Sea World! Considering we have a whale lover in the family and we've lived in Florida for three years, I'm surprised it has taken us this long.
May 02, 2008 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
He Wholly Followed the Lord
Rejoicing with dear friends who have had their firstborn son (he was 9 lb, 15 oz!) Our love and prayers are with you.
And the child that is born on the Sabbath Day,
Is bonny and blithe and good and gay.
April 27, 2008 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
QOTD
"Instead of one of those stereotypes, I'm one of those Smeagol-types." --C7, as he prances around in his pajamas-cum-loincloth before bed
April 23, 2008 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Another Nephew!
Joy to the world
All the boys and girls, now
Joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea
Joy to you and me
Welcome, little baby J! Hubby's little sister has a firstborn son, entering the busy, breathing world today.
April 23, 2008 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
QOTD. . .
Quote of the Day:
"We're an exceptional family, aren't we?"
That's what R9 said to me as I was making dinner tonight. "Connor has already been in bed an hour, and we're just making dinner!"
April 20, 2008 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Sunday Afternoon Family Ramblings
Summer is slowly creeping in. . . We've had afternoon showers recently, and soon it will be hurricane season. The weather is warm enough for the boys to swim, the pool is clean, and they have new goggles. Still, the water was chilly enough that they didn't stay in long today.
Hubby has moved his thesis writing to the back lanai. Each day he sets up the desktop on the patio table and writes and thinks and is energized by the fresh air and sunshine. It's still cool enough to have the doors open and the A/C off. (Thanks to the Florida summer, our electric bill trebles when the A/C is on.)
Yesterday the two younger boys and I went out and about. The best part was a trip to B&N. The boys had gift cards from my brother and they had such fun looking and looking and trying to decide. C7 was immediately drawn to the bird watching kit. I thought the allure was simply the binos included, but he's been looking up birds in the guide and sitting still and watching the birds in the woods. R9's favorite choice was a sketchbook, so he's been accompanying C7 and sketching birds and other things he's observing. Ahhh. . . I love delight-led learning, especially when it mirrors my own educational ideals! They also bought books on mammals, the wild west, archaeological treasures and wildcats. We ran a few routine errands, too--bought a new mouse for the laptop (the touchpad is wonky), visited the bread store, the produce market and shared a treat from Starbucks.
But I've traded buying coffee when out for the yummiest coffee at home. I'll just bring my own when I leave the house. I finally bought a burr coffee grinder
With birthday money from my grandmother, I bought a birdfeeder and seed. Unfortunately, where I wanted to hang it is too close to the lanai screen, and hence a squirrel feeder more than a bird feeder. We'll put it in the front yard, instead.
I've planted morning glory seeds and we'll see if my notorious black thumb doesn't kill them. The boys will be mulching and raking and trimming the hedges this week. Our front porch has become the favorite play spot for the boys and their neighborhood friends. Somehow they still need daily reminders that books and flip flops and toys can't stay out on the porch overnight.
We went to church this morning and it was worshipful and welcoming and good. I'm thankful. As much as we value the church in the community and the importance of corporate worship, it's been hard to integrate into a church since arriving back in Florida. Why that has been is. . . complicated. . . but through it all we've seen God's faithfulness. It is restful, though, to be in corporate worship now. It hasn't always been so.
We had bowls of fresh fruit for lunch yesterday, Florida fresh blueberries and cantaloupe. Today we shared artichokes for a midday snack. The fresh produce just tastes so good. A friend told me about how a local gentleman developed the Earth Box
Beyond the weather and the birds and the produce, I can sense a change of seasons coming. Not just in our environment, but in our lives and future. I don't know in what ways, just that seems thing to be warming up and getting ready to turn into something new.
April 20, 2008 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
New Pets
R9 has caught two lizards and named them Mark H. George and Fudge Brownie.
etu: T10 said other lizards' names were Butterfinger, Mr. Nerdy and Nerd-of-the-World.
April 13, 2008 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Spring Memories
My boys amaze me. . . really they do. I'm seeing as time goes by that their interests and lives are expanding, and that expansion goes beyond my experiences.
For example, someone recommended the Yul Brynner 1969 movie Taras Bulba to me, so we rented it the other day. In spite of our time in Ukraine and great interest in that region, I still have fuzzy spots in my understanding of its history. R9 piped up, "Wasn't he a Cossack? Who killed his kid?" J11 answered, "Yeah, but he wasn't as bad as Ivan Groznyi." While I wasn't exactly sure of where he fit in history, I thought he was a Cossack, but wasn't sure about it until we watched the movie.
The other day T10 asked me, "Who do you like better? Rockefeller, Vanderbilt, or Bill Gates?" Later the boys were playing a modification of a game that they made up, each making decisions as a businessman about shares and advertising and keeping score on a piece of paper. J11 has been reading The Myth of the Robber Barons
Today they spent most of the day on the lanai, hand-painting their little green army guys. Hubby found a book that describes specific battles and they've been setting them up throughout the living room and re-enacting them. J11 and R8 each painted red-shirted Garibaldi troops. I hadn't even heard of Garibaldi and his exploits before now. . .
I've been giving the boys more cooking tasks. They love cutting up onions and peppers and I'm starting to count on them to be my sous-chef helpers. They made cupcakes for a neighbor's birthday, and surprised me with brownies and milk one night for dessert. Better yet, they are just as good as cleaning up kitchen messes as they are at making them.
They've been reading avidly. Once again, we're under a self-imposed ban from the public library. We just don't do well with due dates. Thankfully, we have two Goodwill Bookstores in our area which each have well-stocked kids' and homeschool sections.
Both my mp3 player and the boy's cd player died this month. We're taking turns with the laptop. I'll listen to my lectures with my ear phones on (but missing my learning during drives.) The boys have been listening to Alexander the Great and other stories from LibriVox. (Finally taking advantage of this, Kathy!) I'd really like to get them another cd player, but want to make sure it's both kid-durable and can read mp3 and wav files.
So many little daily details that I don't want to miss and forget. Yet, I know they are hard to remember if I don't record them. I want to get family photos taken soon.
April 04, 2008 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Our Fecund Family
April 01, 2008 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
4 of 5
Four out of five of my boys are down for the count, including Hubby. Only the youngest has escaped. I'm hoping their ills are more minor than mine. . . though by the way they are sleeping and looking, I'm not hopeful.
I'm not feeling well, but I'm feeling better. I was able to start a load of sheets and blankets in the wash and load the dishwasher. I'm ignoring the other messes for now.
February 09, 2008 | Comments (8) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Wahhh. . .
This is my third day of being sick. Sweats and chills. Blech. At least I'm finally feeling well enough to go online and be distracted.
Update: I'm coughing and sipping dayquil and feeling a smidge better. This has been the most bizarre illness I've had in a long time. Started with a fever and chills. Then cold symptoms. Then fever again. Then cough and runny nose. Then nausea. When does it end? Seriously, though, I can type this out now and so I must be getting better. . .
February 06, 2008 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Grampie
World championship ultra-marathon runner and president of the M&M Company of the South, Mathias (Matt) Peter Miller, 88, passed away Sunday, January 20, 2008, of pneumonia following knee surgery.
Born in Uehling, Nebraska on September 11, 1919, Miller came to New Orleans during World War II. He met and was married to Helen Alexander Miller, of New Orleans, for 63 years. Known for his strong faith and political views, Miller was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints of Metairie and the John Birch Society.
He began his running career at age 66 and captured national attention setting and breaking world records. In 1997 he ran 90 miles in 24 hours breaking his own record of 83 miles set the previous year. He liked to train by running barefoot on the levees of Lake Pontchartrain.
Miller is survived by his wife Helen Alexander Miller; sons Michael M. and Mitchell A. Miller; daughters Maureen M. Kuehne and Barbara M. Wilburn; in-laws John Kuehne, Doug Wilburn, and Beverly Blackburn; nephews Jeffrey, Dale, Whitney, and Scott Alexander; niece Judith A. Jackson; brother Robert Miller; 9 grandchildren; 6 great-grandsons; 3 great-granddaughters; and wonderful friends who are just like family. Son of the late Walter Miller and Mary Helen Heitzhusen. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the funeral service on Thursday, January 24, 2008, at 3:00 p.m. at Tharp-Sontheimer-Tharp, 1600 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie. Visitation will precede the service beginning at 1:00 p.m.
January 21, 2008 | Comments (11) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
An Election Lesson from My Boys
I woke up this morning to C7 pointing both thumbs at his chest and proclaiming in a radio voice, "I'm Duncan Hunter, man of the people."
Half-asleep, I asked "Duncan Hunter?"
"Yeah, he's running for president."
T10 chimed in, "Some people run for president just to promote their issue."
"What's Duncan Hunter's issue?"
"Immigration. And China."
When Hubby got home I told him of our conversation, and he explained that yesterday they learned about democratization. ETA: His lesson wasn't about Duncan Hunter, but about Andrew Jackson. . . C7 just combined the two.
Gotta love a dad that homeschools in an election year.
January 09, 2008 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Blogging Year in Review - 2007
As an overview of the past year, here are the titles of the first post of each month.
January 2007: Another Year Bloggin' and A-Deeper in Debt
February 2007: To Console, To Understand, To Love
March 2007: Drugs and the Brain
April 2007: Westminster Shorter Catechism, Question 10
May 2007: One Anothering
June 2007: Hurricane Season, Florida
July 2007: For Demographic Fiends
August 2007: World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7th
September 2007: Shepherd of Tender Youth
October 2007: Looking to Christ, Listening to my Mother
November 2007: Bored of Bedtime
December 2007: Taking for Granted
(Via Three Under Three, via A Mindful Life)
January 03, 2008 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
From Our Family to Yours
December 26, 2007 | Comments (14) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Christmas Wishes from Mrs. Claus
When I was little, I had cassette tapes of my Maw Maw on the radio in New Orleans being Mrs. Claus. Children would call up and ask questions about the North Pole or ask Mrs. Claus for that very special gift they hoped to find under the tree on Christmas morning. One of the things I've always admired about Maw Maw is her ability to jump feet first into new projects and try new things. She passed that quality along to my mother, too.
For the past couple of years, my Mom has been Mrs. Claus at Navy Pier in Chicago. (Did you know Mrs. Claus's first name is Cookie?) She delights the children and adds to the magical air of the holiday season.
December 24, 2007 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Season's Mindfulness
December 22, 2007 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
A New Christmas Tradition
We've done something new this year, which I think I'd like to turn into a family tradition. I put a bunch of Christmas movies at the top of our Netflix/Blockbuster queue--both ones that we know are classics and ones which we've never seen. On the evenings Hubby has to work, the boys and I snuggle in bed and watch Christmas shows. Usually I drift off to sleep in the middle of the movie. . . We've watched classics like The Nutcracker and It's A Wonderful Life (with Hubby) and movies new to us like Holiday Inn, Christmas Past, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra Christmas Special.
I don't like doing too much TV time, but it's nice and cozy and snuggling in front of a movie is the Florida equivalent to cuddling in front of a fire. . .
December 19, 2007 | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Today's Christmas Agenda
Wrap and mail presents for Chicago and Arizona. Cut the boys' hippie-hair. Make Kristen's yummy cider pork recipe. Go buy a Christmas tree. Get produce at the Farmer's Market. Make Peppermint Playdough. Go to the drive-thru Christmas lights. Do a couple of loads of laundry, while listening to Christmas carols.
December 15, 2007 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
QOTD
"I live with interesting male people."
Yes. Me, too.
December 11, 2007 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Look! A Scottish Flag!
"Look! A Scottish Flag!", said R8 when he and I were sitting outside a coffee shop yesterday, he with his cappuccino and I with my latte.
The men at the neighboring table asked, "Where did you learn about the Scottish flag?" One was from Scotland, the other from England.
This is the point homeschooling parents puff out their chests and smile and wait for their child to say, "My Daddy homeschools me!"
Alas, R8 told the truth. "Playing Medieval Total War!"
December 08, 2007 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Preparations for Thanksgiving
I'm about to light candles, put on music, get a glass of wine, and enjoy the evening with the kids doing Thanksgiving preparations.
I've not been. . . excited. . . about the traditions of Thanksgiving, even though my heart has been very thankful. The Lord changed my heart from stress to peaceful today. He gave me the energy and desire to do a "real" Thanksgiving and I went grocery shopping for all the fixings.
I just got off the phone with my Dad to get his special, secret tips for making a turkey (he was the one that always cooked our turkeys growing up) and had a wonderful visit.
Now the turkey is thawing in the pool and my heart and home are peaceful.
ETA, later:
Thanksgiving 2008 Menu
Dad's Roast Turkey and Stuffing
Turducken and Sausage Stuffing
(I didn't make it--left over from an office party)
Gravy
Green Bean Casserole (R8 made)
Red Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
Green Peas (C6 made)
Corn (R8 made)
Dinner Rolls (C6 made)
Cranberry Sauce
Hot Mulled Apple Cider (T9 made)
Pumpkin Pie
Ambrosia (J11 made)
Butterscotch Scotchies (J11 made)
Bailey's Irish Cream (continuing a Kyiv tradition)
November 21, 2007 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Rejoicing and Thankful and Relieved
I've been hesitant to give lots of specifics about Hubby's health issues until we know more. . . I appreciate those who have been so supportive of us--calling and writing and emailing and praying.
Of the four most likely possibilities of diagnoses which fit with his symptoms, three of them were tested for and eliminated as possibilities within the first two weeks. While some were pretty serious, all were things we could. . . deal with. That left the most serious diagnosis to still be pursued. The past week, by God's grace, we've been doing alright. Living each day, taking things in the moment, not being too wrapped up in the what ifs.
We received some FABULOUS news today. Hubby saw the neurologist for a couple of kinds of tests, and the most serious of the possible illnesses was ruled out. The neurologist very confidently assured us that it was off the table. We are rejoicing and thanking the Lord and just so, so relieved.
Hubby and I have always dreamed about the future, daydreamed, speculated, drawn castles in the air. . . It was so difficult this past month not be able to do that. Not be able to say, "So, would you rather go to Prague or Budapest?" Not be able to make plans beyond the next month because. . . well. . . we just didn't know.
Hubby's symptoms are continuing, still undiagnosed, but now we are hopeful and joyful and thankful and optimistic. Rejoicing!
November 16, 2007 | Comments (19) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Hubby Update
I've been so amazed and humbled at the outpouring of concern, prayers, and support from people online and in real life. I've been hesitant to share details until we have a diagnosis--which we still do not have. Of the four most likely scenarios initially presented by the doctor, the three mildest have been ruled out. The fourth and most serious, while not completely ruled out, was not confirmed by a clinical exam and next Friday Hubby will do some more medical testing that may take it off the table. That is our hope, though. . . it could still be a possibility. At that point, it is possible Hubby and his doc will be back to square one, as to evaluating the most likely causes for the symptoms he's been having.
Overall, though, we are at a place emotionally and spiritually where we were not two weeks ago--just being in the moment, taking each day, being hopeful, not speculating. . . Physically, Hubby's symptoms are still presenting, his energy is low. . . His thesis advisor has okayed a break from his research, and when we get a diagnosis, we'll evaluate the next step. He's still homeschooling the boys, though we're relying upon workbooks more than before.
The past few weeks I've been doing okay--and then this week, I've just been worn out and fell apart a few times emotionally. (Hence, the long delay in updating y'all. I just. . . couldn't.) I went to sleep at 7:30 pm the other night and slept 11 hours solid. Fighting off a cold. It was like as soon as we could take a breath and relax a little about Hubby, it all hit me.
Again, thank you for your encouragement and prayers. They mean a lot to us. We seek secure in the Father's hand. And we'll be sharing more as we know more.
November 10, 2007 | Comments (15) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
A Walk Along the Beach
We were planning a walk along Lido Key Beach. . . It was chilly, and I was wearing my leather jacket and a scarf. Before we knew it, the boys were frolicking among the seaweed and waves. We didn't have towels. Thanks to a not-cleaned-out-van, the boys had clothes to change into for the ride home with the heater blaring.
November 03, 2007 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
A Peak Inside. . .
I value transparency. Over the years I've been pretty open with people online, yet still going through cycles of being more or less transparent. I don't put my full name on this blog, partly out of security concerns when we were overseas, and partly out of respect for my children's privacy in the future. (Do I really want future employers to find nekkid baby pics when they google my kids' names as they apply for jobs?)
Some of y'all are aware that when we returned from Ukraine, we pretty much crash-landed. We were considered "short term" with MTW, and extended twice. The second time. . . well. . . perhaps that was a mistake in judgment. I've been blogging less since being in the US. Time constraints, adjustments, pondering things that I'm not willing to be transparent about yet. . .
The Lord has been gracious, but this time of adjustment has been. . . interesting. . . and led down unexpected paths. Personally, spiritually, emotionally, in our family. . . Still we're journeying down this life path. Images of Little Christian's pilgrimage come to mind. God is faithful.
Right now we are facing an obstacle that we were not expecting. Hubby is having significant health problems that are as of yet undiagnosed. His symptoms are worsening, almost daily. Of the four most likely possibilities, the two milder illnesses have been ruled out. He's undergoing further blood work, and as I'm typing this he's in the midst of a three hour MRI.
Peace of mind as we face the unknown, making the most of each day as it comes, wisdom in guiding the children, and a return to full health are what we are praying for now. Thank you for keeping our family in your prayers.
November 02, 2007 | Comments (39) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Bored of Bedtime
"I don't know what to do right now. . . basically, I just have zero options."
--C6's comment, when trying to avoid bed
November 02, 2007 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Smooth Moves
October 31, 2007 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Real Ultimate Ninja
October 31, 2007 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
The Knightiest Knight
October 31, 2007 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Doing Everything a C6 Can
October 31, 2007 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Patriotic Boys
Do to a time miscalculation, we didn't make it to the pro-troop rally in Orlando today. However, we'll be at the Green Bridge over the Manatee River tomorrow afternoon.
Update: We did made it to the bridge over the Manatee River this afternoon--boys, flag, signs and all. The boys loved it and we'll be out their next week, if anyone wants to join us!
October 27, 2007 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Boys Will Eat Anything
I've got to say, I'm super thankful that my boys will eat just about anything. They are each allowed to choose one food that they don't have to eat, but if it is in something I prepare, they are responsible for just eating around it. Right now, the "one things" include leeks, onions, carrots and lima beans. For a long time, monkey brains were R8's "one thing" and then he realized I never serve those. . .
I'm thankful they are willing to try just about anything. One wasn't thrilled with the millet I've made a few times. I tried to convince them it was yummy by saying it was like a cross between rice and couscous. I forgot that rice had been his "one thing" for quite a while.
We had a light lunch the other day of veggies dipped in hummus and toasted pita bread. Hubby bought the hummus at the grocery store, and it reminded me of how much we all like it. It's pretty easy to make, too--and you can skip the tahini if you aren't a hummus purist.
Tonight we had deeeelicious Cuban Black Bean soup. We try to have a legume-based dinner once a week, and Black Bean soup is a fave. I forgot just how good Cuban Black Bean soup is when you're sure to season it with cumin and serve with fresh chopped onions and sour cream. Yummmm. We all had seconds.
Maybe it's the cooler weather, but I'm more inspired to cook and create in the kitchen these days. R8 is asking to make apple butter with me--I've hardly done any canning since Ukraine.
October 22, 2007 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Pancake Mixes
J11 is very handy in the kitchen. It took me years to be able to make good pancakes, and he's mastered it at age 11. Still, it's easiest to use a mix in the box, but when he's cooking and the other boys are eating. . . well. . . we can go through a lot of pancakes! So here are some make-your-own-mix recipes for us to try out.
4 cups quick cooking oats
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup non-fat dry milk
2 tablespoons cinnamon
5 teaspoons salt
3 tablespoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
Makes about 8 cups.
To cook the pancakes, beat together:
2 eggs
1/3 c. of melted butter
Little by little mix in:
2 c. of pancake mix
1 c. of water
5 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup cornmeal
1/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons salt
Stir 1 1/2 cups of pancake mix, 2 eggs, and 1 1/4 cups of milk in a mixing bowl until smooth. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Cook the pancakes for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Enjoy with maple syrup.
October 20, 2007 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
No Drama
Just life. Days and weeks go by, the normal rhythm of life. I'm thankful for the lack of drama, the routine ups and downs. I embrace my husband. Hold on to my boys while letting them go. Thanking the Lord.
October 18, 2007 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
"Because the ice is so slippery. . .
. . . and the monkeys are all irrational."
Family movie night: Most Valuable Primate
October 13, 2007 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Kid Compliments
"You know what I like about Mark? He's a great athlete. He's got amazing endurance. He can run and run and run. And he can jump far."
--T9 about neighbor-kid-Mark
October 12, 2007 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
PB&J
When I got up this morning, the boys were already awake and C6 was asking his brothers what kind of peanut-butter and jelly sandwich they wanted him to make for them. What a sweet kid.
October 06, 2007 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
P.A .Vay-Cay
The last week of August we had a family vacation to Pennsylvania. Hubby went further north to Maine with his dad, brothers, and a few other guys to go bear hunting. The boys and I stayed in Pennsylvania with relatives, and had a relaxing, restful country holiday. One of the reasons I started blogging was to keep a family journal. Pics and notes of the trip will be backdated to help us with our stories and pictures and memories.
Note: The rest of this is delayed because the pics are on the computer that crashed, and Hubby hasn't had time to get the data off of the hard drive.
September 08, 2007 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Saturday: At the Buck!
We dropped Hubby off at his Uncle Sonny's for his trip up to the Maine woods to go bear hunting, and then the boys and I went to Uncle Barry's and Aunt Sherry's. I knew Aunt Sherry long before I knew Hubby--and she's the one who introduced us when we were just 17. Since her youngest is now that age I had to ask her, "What were you thinking when you introduced us!? We were so young!" Ahh, but it has been nearly two decades of bliss, so I'm not complaining!
The boys played for hours on the tire swing that cousin Evan put up for them.
That evening the boys went with Uncle Bar, Natalie and Evan to. . . The Buck to watch Monster Trucks like Robby the Racing Rabbit and the Pink Puppy. They stayed through a rain shower and had so much fun! They learned rhymes like, "When we went to the Buck, we needed to up-chuck and said "Duck! Or you'll be out of luck!" Evan and Natalie also taught them Indian Leg Wrestling. I visited with Aliza and little C while the boys were out at the Buck. We all slept soundly that night!
August 25, 2007 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Off We Go!
Recovering from a week of the sickies, we started out Friday morning instead of Thursday night as originally planned. We stopped at Jack's at exit 14 in Georgia--a family tradition--to eat the best wood-smoked barbecue on the globe.
We talked and sang and talked and laughed on the drive up. The boys travel well. *grin* At 2 a.m. we were driving through Washington, D.C. Hubby was pointing out landmarks to the boys, and on a lark we exited to drive through D.C. We saw the Capitol building, the Washington Monument, and then decided to park and walk to the White House. Yes, at 2 a.m. It was great--no crowds of people, no horrid traffic--just a ton of Capital Hill police officers and a few drunk college students, one of whom took this family picture for us.
August 24, 2007 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
No Dark Sarcasm. No Thought Control.
As an incentive to critical thought, Hubby has exegeted this classic song and now the boys are humming it as our homeschool anthem.
August 16, 2007 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Follow Rainbows in Your Eyes
July 29, 2007 | Comments (16) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Boys and Men
"Is this what is meant by the chivalric ideal?" asked J10 today, as he, Hubby and brothers were working out--lifting weights while listening to Puccini
June 22, 2007 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Hello From Chicago!
The two older boys and I have been spending a fabulous weekend in Chicago visiting my parents. We've walked all over the city, ridden the ferris wheel at Navy Pier (where my Mom used to work--as Mrs. Claus!), watched the baby beluga nurse at Shedd Aquarium. . . My Dad and the boys slept with the dinos at the Field Musuem.
June 16, 2007 | Comments (11) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Lemonade Stand
and invited the kids to set up shop in front during their open house.
Gives a friendly, neighborhood feel to the potential buyers,
don't you think?
June 09, 2007 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Wii Had A Blast!
We went to Tarpon Springs, renown for its sponge divers and Greek food. We met up with friends (and their boys) from BJU and talked and laughed for hours. After wandering around Tarpon Springs, we went to their place and played Wii. Oh, my! I haven't had that much fun in ages. I'm not big on the electronica in general, but a Wii is definitely on my wish list.
June 08, 2007 | Comments (11) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Ну, погоди!
Memories of Ukraine, just for my boys.
May 12, 2007 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
What Life's About
Happy anniversary to my wonderful Dad and Mom. I love you dearly.
May 10, 2007 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Coffee with the Guys
Here we are at a local coffee shop, me and my two oldest boys. J9 is drinking a white chocolate mocha and reading a book about drawing comics, T8 is drinking iced coffee, light ice, heavy whip, and finishing HP4 and I'm drinking an extra-caffeinated blended coffee and finishing some homework on the laptop. It's peaceful. And it is amazing to have transitioned to a time in our family life in which we can hang out at a coffee shop and talk and read and just be together. . .
April 27, 2007 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
ностальгия
I've been feeling nostalgic the past couple of weeks. Maybe that's not such a surprise, seeing all the Ukraine related posts I've written lately. It just dawned on me, however, that today is our 2 year anniversary of being back in the U.S. Two years ago, April 16, 2005, we arrived back in Florida after three and a half years in Kyiv, Ukraine.
The transition back was difficult, perhaps made harder because we left Ukraine just so wiped out. The past couple of months I've said to Hubby, "I miss Kyiv. I could live in Kyiv again." Six months ago, I could envision living in Ukraine again--but not Kyiv. Too many shadows. Now, they seem to have dissipated. Who knows? Who knows whether in the future, God's path for us will lead back to Kyiv? Right now it doesn't seem likely. But, maybe. . . I do trust that the Lord will lead us in the next step--and the next--and the next. Even though I have no idea where or when or what that may bring.
Still, I've been very sentimental, wistful, missing people and places, routines, ways of living. . . Missing Ukraine. And I'm thankful the Lord has brought me to this place of nostalgia, past the fear that clouded so much of our transition time.
April 16, 2007 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Joy
April 15, 2007 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Hubby Waxes Lyrical
Hubby wrote a lighthearted poem for me today. He loves me.
Presidents write decrees;
And Pontiffs issue bulls.
Despots love their fiats;
And Executives make their rules.But my love reigns by subtler means;
They’re impossible to question.
And thus it is I live my life,
‘neath the tyranny of “suggestion.”--Discoshaman
April 09, 2007 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Making Memories and Pysanky
Each spring in Ukraine, several of us American women would get together with a Nadiya, an artist who focused on traditional folk art mixed with modern media, for an afternoon of writing pysanky eggs. It is meditative to sit, work, create together.
On Easter itself, we would see people with krashanky (solid-dyed, usually red, hard boiled eggs) and paska (a decorative, holiday bread) in baskets, bringing them to be blessed by the priests.
I miss Ukraine, and the seasonal changes and traditions. Even when traditions were not my own, they became part of the rhythm of our lives.
This year the boys and I will cook hard-boiled eggs. We will decorate them, and every red egg will remind me of babushka and Ukraine.
(Lil' Miss or Laura or Dawn. . . if you are reading this, do you have any photos of making pysanky together?)
April 02, 2007 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
A Tale of Two Bicycles
Over a year ago, I decided I wanted a bike. I haven't had one in years. I was concerned it might be a passing fancy, that the idea of riding a bike would be more appealing than the reality. So, I waited. When Christmas rolled around this past year, I realized that I really DID want a bike. I had a Schwinn when I was a kid, and so I asked Hubby for a nod to retro design Schwinn from the local store.
While he gave it to me for Christmas, we didn't actually go buy it until mid-February. I rode it and loved it. It was blue. I felt a bit like Audrey Hepburn.
The second time I rode it, as I went up a slight incline I decided to switch gears. And the chain and whole gear mechanism popped off and went flying into the road. It was my birthday. I felt like a kid, wanting to cry.
I returned the bike to the store. They had no more like it, but were readily agreeable that it was a defective bicycle, and so issued me a full refund.
At that point, I was despondent. I told Hubby, "I'm just going to advertise on CraigsList that I want an old bike that has been ridden recently and works."
When I went to post a Wanted:Bike ad, I saw that an ad had just been posted for two bicycles just a few hours before. I called. An older couple have been vacationing in Florida for the past month. They had two older Schwinns and have ridden them all month. I called, and they were willing for me to come take a look.
The bikes were just what I wanted--and not just a bike for me, but Hubby as well. Road bicycles, good condition, older, slightly rusted but working. And the styling? Pure vintage. A Suburban and Collegiate. Blue and Yellow. A comfy seat, new brakes.
I felt like it was a special gift from the Lord. Just what I wanted, only better.
March 29, 2007 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
When I Grow Up, Part I
We have a set of books from the Life Nature Library. They belonged to Hubby's grandfather and were published in 1962. This morning as R8 was reading one, he told me, "I think when I grow up, I'd like to study cowboys--you know, a Cowboy Historian. Or, study cactus, so they don't die as much. Or the stars"
March 24, 2007 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
For Laura and Sam
This past weekend we were witness to Laura's and Sam's covenant vows of marriage. Laura was a dear friend and teammate in Ukraine. I cried nearly every time she smiled. And it was wonderful to see Little Miss and Lina--two other recently wed teammates, who lived too far away for us to attend their weddings.
Oh, look at where we are
God has brought us both so far
We've been delivered by his hand
And brought to the place where we now standLove is patient and love is kind
Love comes through every time
Always protects hopes and trusts
Keeps on believing and it never gives upIn my life I have seen so many things
But nothing has touched me so deep inside
As when I see Jesus in your eyesIn my heart I'm very sure
In His love ours will endure
Loving Him by loving you
In serving Jesus, I will serve you tooFor His glory we will live
He has given us love to give
I am with you heart and soul
Where ever He leads together we will goIn my life I have see so many things
But nothing has touched me so deep inside
As when I see Jesus in your eyes
--Julie Miller
March 21, 2007 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Just Another Stop on the Road
My sis, her music man, and her two winsome children are visiting us this week. We've listened to music, drunk wine, looked at photos, and watched the kids play. We'll be celebrating a birthday tomorrow, and then they'll be on their way.
March 05, 2007 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Enjoying School
A glass of merlot, a lit candle, music playing, children gathered round and the blue glow of the monitor. Ahhh, this is the way to do school work. Homeschooling or college work. I'm enjoying my music class.
January 16, 2007 | Comments (8) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Family Bits and Pieces
Haven't been blogging much. . . obviously. . . I can't believe we are already two weeks into 2007. 2007. Seems like such a far away year, and here we are already.
We've had company this past week. Rebecca, who travelled with us in Paris, and her college roommate. They've spent a week hanging out with us and enjoying the Florida sunshine and are now off for more vacationing. (They just finished their degrees in English Lit and History, respectively, and need a break before diving into life in Chicago.)
On the home front, a new semester has started. And not only is Hubby another step closer to his master's, but I'm enrolled in a couple of courses, too. Ack. First time in a school setting in. . . ages. One class is online and the other a real-live, actual classroom class. Excited and slightly nervous. And thankful that my textbooks don't cost more than tuition. The kids are back in (home)school, too. They are amazing. I think that C6 is reading. . . but not completely sure. . . definitely things are starting to click.
Hubby's grandparents are visiting from Pennsylvania. (Not staying with us, thankfully--I like having company, but do need a break between one set of guests and another!)
In other news, my sister and her music man are on the road, touring, singing, being together as a family. If you live in Oregon, Kansas, Chicago, upstate New York--you'll have the opportunity to hear Pat Gahn live. It's totally worth it! Check this calendar to see Pat Gahn's engagements.
January 13, 2007 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Merry Christmas From Our Family to Yours
December 25, 2006 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Advent - The Third Sunday
So we missed church this morning. There is an early service at 8am (impossible) and at 9:30am. At 10:30 T9 was asking "when are we leaving for church?" C6 had "helpfully" turned off the alarm clock. I didn't even hear it go off--I must have rolled over and gone back to sleep.
So we had family worship today. I like having multiple copies of the Trinity Hymnal now. We didn't need to pull them out for today's Christmas hymns, though.
C6 lit three candles today. This is the week for the joy candle. We sang all the verses to Joy to the World.
December 17, 2006 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree
December 16, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Missing My Ukrainian Christmas
I spoke with someone on the phone today and recognized the lilt in her accent. While her English was flawless and accent faint, it was just enough for me to ask her where she was from. Ukraine. Kyiv. She hasn't been there in 15 years. My memories are more recent than hers.
As we are in the holiday season, a lot of memories and "traditions" we made in the few years we were there are making me sad and nostalgic. I liked having the season paced a bit slower than in the States. Our family observing Advent. Christmas on December 25th, celebrated with our family and teammates. New Year's--which has the traditions and emphasis in Ukraine that we have here with Christmas. That was celebrated with our Ukrainian friends Then Ukrainian Christmas in January. Then Old New Year around the 13th. Each celebrated slightly differently, but still sharing some traditions and the spirit of the holidays.
The temperatures have dipped slightly. Enough to wear a sweater or coat and not look like you're totally out of your mind. While in general I love the Florida weather, right now I'm missing Ukraine's winter. Watching the snow fall, looking out from our 15th floor flat and seeing a fairyland instead of grey concrete block buildings.
I haven't kept in touch very much with our friends or teammates in Kyiv. But as I'm doing my Christmas shopping, I'm mentally picking out gifts for Sasha and Laura, Dima and Erik.
Added on later: One of the things I have really been missing is our annual trek to Dyetski Mir, Children's World. It is a 4 story department store, and the top floor is all kids' toys. Really it had an impressive collection of kids' things. Hubby and I would get a babysitter and then go Christmas shopping for the boys. One of our favorite toys we found were little plastic guys (like green army guys) but specific to a historical period. We got knights and vikings and lots of neat things. Unfortunately, by the time we discovered them, the toy factory in Donetsk had already been closed. Typed out, this doesn't sound very exciting, but it was one of our "traditions" that I miss.
December 12, 2006 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Advent - The Second Sunday
December 10, 2006 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
What I'm Doing. . .
Listening:
Pandora Online Music Radio: Switching between "Roger Whitakker Holiday" and "Louis Armstrong Holiday"
Buying:
A new "Jesus Set" for the boys--baby Jesus' head popped off last year, and gluing it isn't working. It just seems so sacriligious to have a headless baby Jesus that I went out and bought a new one. So now we have lots of extra shepherds, wisemen and sheep. We got our original one 6 years ago, and is a special part of our Christmas traditions.
Watching:
Charlie Brown Christmas with the kids
Alias Final Season with Hubby
Smelling:
The spicy potpourri coasters that my sil made for us when she was in junior high. We pack them away with our Christmas things, and when we unpack them the whole house smells cinnamony.
Cooking:
Brian's Thai Curry
Eating:
Too much sugar
Drinking:
Peruvian FT Organic Cepicafe Co-Op Coffee
Surfing:
The Pastor's Wife's Christmas Recipes
Gentle Christian Families Forum
Abondante Living
Techy Gadget Giveaway!
December 09, 2006 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Moon Moon Yellow
"We're studiers of the moon!" "I found a glowing stone in a little cave." "Look, Mom, we're jumping over giant moon craters!"
The boys have turned out all the lights and are playing by the glow of the computer screen, being astronauts exploring the moon.
December 07, 2006 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Advent - The First Sunday
This year's advent wreath is made with the ferns, vines, and pinecones which the boys gathered from the woods. We used plates as the base, with clay to hold the candles in place and upright.
Tonight R6 lit the prophecy candle and we read from Isaiah. We have started with the readings we used a few years ago for advent.
December 03, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Family Meanderings
Last weekend we had two birthday boys--now C is 6 and T is 9. *sniffle* They are growing up so quickly. They each got a bike for their birthday, just like the other two boys did for their birthday's this year. Now they all can ride around the neighborhood! Yesterday R7 rode T9's bike without training wheels, so we took his off. Today, C6 showed he could ride without training wheels, and I took his off. C6 is so independent. The other boys I potty-trained, but he potty-trained himself (with his brothers' examples.) Now he's learned to ride a two-wheeler without our help.
My sister and her kidlets were here for Thanksgiving and stayed for about a week. It was great--we went to the beach, talked, baked, drank wine, went shopping, talked, talked, talked. She bought me an early Christmas present--my own toolbox full of tools. As I am decidedly unhandy, I've never bothered with tools. But they've already come in handy several times--like taking off those training wheels.
Our neighborhood has recently reinstuted their Farmer's Market. It's quite small, but I found wonderful local, non-pastuerized, seasonal honey there this morning! I bought spring and winter, and recommend Eden's Nectar to anyone in Florida.
The boys and I went to the Sarasota holiday parade tonight. For some reason, I didn't realize until we were there that this was the boys' first parade. They had a great time. They made friends with the kids we were standing near and got quite a haul of candy. We had some grumpy people sitting on one side of us, and some neat people on the other side. (Guess which ones brought a bottle of merlot for the parade? I wish the grumpy ones had!)
The boys gathered vines and leaves and pine needles and such from the woods behind our house so that we can make our advent wreath for tomorrow.
I was supposed to take a GRE subject exam today, but my registration didn't go through. I registered online. I was really upset about it. The next one isn't until April.
I have jury duty on Monday. This is the first time I've ever been called up. I don't know what to expect.
T9 told me yesterday that he and his brothers talked about it, and would give up any Christmas presents and birthday presents for the next 10 years, if they could have a little brother or sister.
December 02, 2006 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Callooh! Callay!
My sister and her kidlets are flying in tonight. They'll be landing at the airport in just two hours. . . Hubby is picking them up. *grin* My folks drive in on Wednesday. I'm really super-excited. My inlaws are hosting all of us for Thanksgiving dinner.
Annnnnd. . . two boy-birthdays are this weekend, and rumors of bikes and Sea World are floating around.
November 20, 2006 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Boys’ Step-By-Step Guide To Cleaning the House
In the past six months or so, we've gone from barely-keeping-up to staying-on-top of the daily messes and clutter. One of the biggest changes is how the boys are now at an age at which their daily activities don't result in a net-mess.
One of the tools we use is the below outline I wrote up and posted on the fridge. We don't do all of these every day, but it is the guide we follow when we do a weekly housecleaning or before we have guests. This list is primarily for the boys to do the basic cleaning, and I follow up taking care of details and things that I see that are overlooked by those who are only 4 feet high.
While the list looks long, we tackle each section at a time. Four boys can do a numbered section in less than 10 minutes when they are working together.
Boys’ Step-By-Step Guide
To Cleaning the House
- 1. Throw Away All Trash!
- a. Empty trash cans in both bathrooms, kids’ bedroom, and kitchen.
- b. Gather any and all trash from the floor—bedrooms, public areas, bathrooms, under furniture, in corners.
- c. Take trash out to bins in garage—make sure trash gets put in the bin and the lid closed!
- d. Sort the recycling in the garage.
- 2. Gather All Clothes!
- a. Pick up all clothes and shoes from the floor—check bedrooms, public areas, bathrooms, and closets. Fold and put away clean ones.
- b. Put dirty ones in the hamper (not on the laundry room floor!)
- c. Check in and on the dryer. If you see your clothes, fold them and put them away!
- d. Are all shoes put away neatly in the closet? Play shoes in one bin, church shoes in the other bin.
- 3. Books!
- a. Gather all books from the floor, under beds and in bathrooms.
- b. Mommy/Daddy books put on top of living room bookshelf.
- c. Library books put in bin by the door.
- d. School books go on the school shelf. Set them up neatly!
- e. Kids’ books go on kids’ shelf or under-bed shelves. Set them neatly—like Daddy’s bookshelves.
- 4. Clean the Kitchen
- a. Gather any food, plates, or utensils from anywhere they are in the house.
- b. Empty dishwasher. If something still isn’t clean, use the scrub brush!
- c. Load dishwasher.
- d. If anything is on the counter tops, put it away where it belongs!
- e. Squirt counter tops, stove top, and cupboards with vinegar. Wipe down!
- f. Sweep kitchen and kitchen office.
- 5. Wash the walls.
- a. Use a slightly damp, clean cloth to wipe walls. Look for fingerprints! Look for scuffs from toys!
- b. Pay extra attention to doors and the walls around the doors.
- c. Mommy or Daddy will use Magic Eraser.
- 6. Clean the bathroom.
- a. Put away, where they belong, any items that don’t belong in the bathroom.
- b. Put away in the cupboard any items that DO belong in the bathroom.
- c. Use some dishwashing soap—just a little squirt—to fill the tub with bubble water. Let it soak.
- d. Wipe down all surfaces. Use either a cleaning cloth that is wet and wrung out from the soapy water in the tub, or use Clorox wipes. Wipe down counter, cupboards, door, shower walls, and floor.
- e. Wipe down toilet with Clorox wipe. Start with the cleanest areas, move to the dirtier areas. Be sure to wipe floor around the base of the toilet!
- 7. Clean the Floors!
- a. Sweep the public areas.
- b. Let Daddy or Mommy mop.
- c. Inspect for vacuuming—office and bedrooms.
- d. Vacuum. Be careful of money, legos, and rubber bands.
- e. Put small attachment on and vacuum next to wall and hard to reach areas.
- 8. Clean Bedroom
- a. Make beds—sheets on properly, blankets spread nicely, pillows on.
- b. All trash, clothes, and books should already be picked up from earlier work. Double check.
- c. Clean closet. Any toys in closet put away. Shoes organized.
- d. Clear out everything under beds, under shelves. Put away properly.
- e. Straighten shelves. Books neat!
- f. Clean out your own dresser special-drawers.
- g. Inspect for vacuuming.
- 9. Have Daddy or Mommy Check!
November 18, 2006 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Cooking Coq Au Vin and Christmas
Had a nice evening making Coq au Vin, drinking shiraz (used instead of burgandy), wearing my WIC Have You Hugged A Presbyterian Today? apron and listening to Harry Connick, Jr's, Christmas album. Usually I am a strict constructionist when it comes to Christmas--doesn't start until Advent and/or after Thanksgiving. But I had this cd from the library, and after thinking about Roger Whittaker yesterday, well. . .
I'm making Coq au Vin for a birthday potluck tomorrow. I bought a crock pot today for this very reason. I have wanted one like the one my Mom bought me before we moved to Ukraine. Unfortunately, even with the transformer, it wasn't happy with the electrical current there. Still, it had a removeable pot and all-glass lid, and so could be used in the oven and on the stovetop. So, that's what I wanted if I bought another crock pot. Do you know how hard that is to find?
Washing dishes by candelight is the best way to do it.
My bil is here, helping Hubby repair our recalcitrant laptop.
T8 is begging to read LOTR. Hubby wants him to wait until he's older, not because it is "too much" but because he wants him to really be able to appreciate it So, we're encouraging him to read The Hobbit first to get used to J.R.R. Tolkein's style.
November 12, 2006 | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Amazon Christmas Order Excitement!
I ordered my absolute most favorite Christmas album on cd last year through Amazon. I listened to this cassette over and over and over again when I was younger, and not just at Christmas.
My order last November was delayed because Amazon didn't have it in stock and couldn't get it in stock. Every few weeks, I'd get an e-mail, "Do you still want us to try to fulfill the order?" I kept selecting yes so it's been in my "order history" for ages.
(The year before I was careless in ordering, and inadvertantly bought the wrong album, right artist. Since we were in Ukraine, I didn't bother trying to trade it for the right one.)
Today I received and e-mail--it's been shipped! Woohoo! I'll be all set for Christmas this year! It's only taken three Christmases.
November 11, 2006 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Kyiv Memories: From The Window
R7 (when he had just turned 6) is standing on the radiator and looking out of the boys' bedroom window in Kyiv. That flat was on the 15th floor, and provided a great view of the construction of the yellow/triangular-roofed building.
(Kyiv, March 2005)
November 08, 2006 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Hiating or Not?
So I was asked. . .
Does this mean you're back...??? I was so sad to see that you were going on hiatus (even though I understand). I'll keep peeking in, just in case.
Ummmm. . . yes and no. Sorta. Still kinda on hiatus, especially from mega-online involvement. But a little blog posting--pics and odd thoughts and the like--well, this is just the best outlet for that. *grin*
This is our vacation week, and we have some wonderful New Orleans photos. (But Hubby has them on the laptop, so that will have to wait. . .) And I anticipate posting other bits and pieces this week, too.
November 05, 2006 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Peeking. . .
Peeking out of hiatus, because I want to post links to recipes that I don't want to forget.
Pumpkin Seeds / Buttered and Salted
Butternut Squash with Wild Rice Stuffing
We went to Detwiler Farms (where we usually buy our produce) for pumpkins yesterday. We were going to buy one, ended up buying two, but took home five! The lady selling the pumpkins gave us several for pumpkin shakes and pumpkin seeds when she found out we like pumpkin seeds. They were still good but had a tiny soft spot and couldn't be sold. So we have pumpkin baking in the oven (and then off to the freezer for Thanksgiving pies!
My folks are coming for Thanksgiving! I'm so excited. My sister and her kidlets are flying out, too. I've e-mailed my brother an invitation, but haven't heard from him. (He's not big on e-mail, but I don't have a current phone number. . .) The last time we were all together was a year and a half ago, for my brother's college graduation.
This is our second Thanksgiving back in the States, and it makes me happy that it's become "tradition" for my parents and sister to come spend this holiday with us. Okay, so it's not a huge, long-standing tradition, but after two years, it feels like one.
Speaking of seeing family, we're going to New Orleans soon. We'll see my grandparents, my other brother and his family, and maybe even some family on my Dad's side. I'm kinda scared, to be honest. I have so many memories of childhood set in New Orleans, and I know things are different, but I don't want it to change my memories, you know?
October 29, 2006 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
On Hiatus
Well, I've been afraid of changin'
'Cause I've built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Children get older
I'm getting older tooWell, I'm getting older too
So, take this love, take it down
If you climb a mountain and turn around
And If you see my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well the landslide will brought it downIf you see my reflection in the snow covered hills
Well maybe ... the landslide will bring it down
Yes, I feel lame quoting the Dixie Chicks. With the classic Stevie Nicks refrain of Children get older I'm getting older too echoing in my head, TulipGirl is going on hiatus.
Grace and peace,
To you and yours,
Wherever you are in the world.
October 17, 2006 | Comments (22) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Getting Better. . .
Thursday night Hubby came home early and called in sick to his Theory class, because of food poisoning. Second time in his life it was related to beef jerky. He's never eating that again. (And he never misses class unless he's on his deathbed.)
Friday my right eye was hyper-photosensitive. It got progressively worse throughout the morning, culminating in me being overly-cautious and a bit fearful of driving home from J10's orthodontic appointment. I crawled in bed next to Hubby (still sick, but a bit better) and closed my eyes. And slept most of the day.
Saturday I felt great, ran errands, got things done. About 3 am Sunday morning Hubby woke me up and told me C5 had been throwing up for the past couple of hours. In the morning, I awoke feeling nauseated. Yup. Sure enough, the "food poisoning" was likely a virus that swept through the whole family.
Sunday afternoon I was feeling (a bit) better, so Hubby started off for the Uni library an hour away. He was almost there when I called and said the boys were throwing up more and I really needed him home. (He wouldn't have left if I wasn't feeling better earlier. . .) So he came home to care for us, picking up blue powerade, that miracle anti-dehydration potion.
Today we're all up and about. Still feeling pretty lousy, but mobile and no one is vomiting. We're sticking to the BRAT diet, so I made applesauce.
Of the 15 lbs/$5 of apples I bought Saturday, we have about a dozen left. I think the boys have been practicing their juggling again. So I used the bruised ones to make the applesauce. Reminded me of Columbine's story of Good Potato, Bad Potato in Ukraine.
I've been feeling nostalgic and homesick for Ukraine lately. Likely because we've been looking at pics and feel "settled" enough here to miss things there. I've been looking at the pics and reading these blogs (which aren't in Ukraine) but are reminding me of so much of when we were in Kyiv.
The boys and I have been taking turns vegging out on the computer. Andrea introduced us to LineRider and Homeschool Hacks, which led us to these puzzle maps of the US and Europe.
The boys also spent several hours outside today, and I kept the doors open to air out the "sick rooms." I think they needed the fresh air and sunshine.
And I'm feeling better. Humming these hymns.
Update: R7 just started throwing up. *sigh* I thought he had been spared.
October 16, 2006 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Boys' Sizes
So I don't lose it. . .
J10:
8/10, 10/12 Dress Shirt
M Polo Shirt
10 Pants (?)
T8:
S Dress Shirt (??? Medium may be better)
S/M (Size 8) Polo Shirt
10 Pants
6/8 Shorts (?)
R7:
XS Dress Shirt
XS Polo
7 Slim Jeans
C5:
XS Dress Shirt
XS Polo
4T Jeans
October 14, 2006 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Losses from Katrina
I had the L----- family history album in my possession before the storm. It may have been one of the things that washed away in the storm surge, but I won't know for sure until I can haul things out of the 5 storage areas from Miss to Baton Rouge and see what survived. I thought her name (great-grandmother) was Addie Brown, but I'll see what I can find. We hope to begin moving into the Mississippi house by the end of October, but it may be Christmas before I have time to unpack boxes.
Mom always said that of all the children, M--- E---- was the most like her mother. She spoke of her as very soft-spoken; Mom had never heard her raise her voice. Her favorite song was "Pretty Little Red-Wing." That's all I remember. I do hope that album is still intact---it traces the family history way back, with pictures.
We're on an e-mail list with my Dad's side of the family. His family is from New Orleans, though only a few of us still live there.
I started crying when I read this today. It's so small compared to what some have lost, but felt so big today. . .
October 10, 2006 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
If I Were In A Movie
If I were in the movie, even LOTR, and they made me kiss. . . I'd seriously quit. Or at least think about quitting. --my boys, after watching "Making of LOTR"
I'm glad they still think kissing is gross.
October 07, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Pinecone Babies
October 07, 2006 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Where I Grew Up
I could spend hours at maps.google.com. I probably have. The below links are satellite images of where I grew up, with our homes near the center of the image.
Birth to 5:
The Pontalba Apartments
Metairie, LA
Waveland, MS
Kindergarten:
San Diego
1st-2nd Grades:
Adak, AK
3rd Grade:
Bisbee, AZ
4th-5th Grades:
The Building, Bisbee
6th-8th Grades:
GTMO
8th-9th Grades:
Great Lakes, IL
10th Grade:
Waukegan, IL
11th-12th Grades:
Live Oak, TX
Early College:
Brooks AFB, TX
Before Marriage:
Gurnee, IL(Our house is gone.)
Our Newlywed Home:
Greenfield, MA
When J10 Was Born:
Myakka City, FL
When T8 Was Born:
Monterrey, CA
Where R7 Was Born:
San Angelo, TX
Middle of Nowhere:
Midland, TX
Cross-Cultural Training:
Florissant, CO
Where C5 Was Born:
Columbia, SC
Preparing for Ukraine:
St. Pete, FL
In Kyiv:
In the Center of the City
In Kyiv:
In Kharkovskyia Region
Now, Florida Gulf Coast
(Not finished yet. . .)
October 05, 2006 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Kyiv Memories: Pysanky Tank
I've been looking through old digital photos, and realized how many memories I have from Ukraine that I want to document here and share with y'all. I think I'll try to do it each Wednesday, but we'll see. . .
This photo was taken in the park across from Rodina Mat. The tanks are painted as a mark of peace, but always reminded me of pysanky eggs. This was when my Mom and Ben were visiting us in the fall of 2002.
October 01, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Fearless
September 28, 2006 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Swashbuckling Collectivist Adventure
Great phrase, huh? And to think Hubby has used it in a serious academic paper related to Marxist history and pirates. Grad school is fun.
September 28, 2006 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
We Went "Camping"
Camping my speed. Air-conditioned cottages on a lake. Screened-in porches that kept most of the spiders and mosquitos out. Both were plentiful.
We went to Lake Louisa State Park with Hubby's parents, and his little brother and his girlfriend. We had a wonderfully peaceful weekend. Slept more than fished.
The boys got their first fishing rods from Grandpa, who still has his very first fishing rod from when he was a little boy. We didn't catch anything, but we did drown some worms.
The boys also tried out archery, played catch with Uncle Andrew and rode in the back of a pick-up truch for the first time.
September 25, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Music to My Heart
J10 is singing "Rock of Ages" with the newish melody. My heart melts.
Our team in Ukraine used to try to sing Rock of Ages alternating the new and old tunes with each verse. We always struggled to keep them straight.
Update: J10 told me Daddy was singing both melodies with them today, and that they were singing the first verse over and over to learn it. T8 asked me to stop singing it "because it makes my stomach hurt" because of what they did to Jesus' side.
September 20, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Let's Get Together, Yeah Yeah Yeah
Yup, we need a girl. . . *grin*
September 19, 2006 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Hacked
Hubby's main site and ROP site have been hacked by Turkish muslim hackers. Anyone know how to fix this and willing to help? Thanks!
Update: Not sure whether Hubby fixed it, or if he had some help--either way Le Sabot and ROP are back online. Thanks for the quick and supportive responses!
September 17, 2006 | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Baseball and Apple Pie
We took another step in the boys American cultural education today. They went to their first minor league baseball game.
As we approached the gate, an older fellow came up to us and asked if we wanted free tickets. He's a season pass holder and couldn't use them all--so we got free seats right by first base!
Also it was "Wings Night 2006" with area restaurants providing free wings for the spectators in a bid to be voted Sarasota's Hottest Wings.
The game was fun, the boys learned a lot, but the Sarasota Reds lost.
September 02, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
"If I'm Ever a Professor at West Point. . ."
That's how J10 began an elaborate conversation with me. I love how my boys' minds work.
September 02, 2006 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
The Kids Were Up At 5 AM
I don't wake up that early.
When I stumbled out to make my morning coffee, T8 annouced, "I've been awake since 5:02 and haven't been able to go to sleep since!"
They are playing Axis and Allies now, with reminders to check their chore list and school list.
I wanna go back to bed. Just thinking of getting up at 5 makes me tired.
September 01, 2006 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
I'm Not A Luddite, Really I'm Not
Though I know some of my friends in Ukraine thought we were, the way we eschewed getting a cell phone. We "borrowed" a team one during a summer project. I never used it.
But we've made the jump, and now Hubby and I each have cell phones. I figured out how to dial and answer it tonight. Played around a bit so the ring tones are less annoying. At the end of the week, our landline will be disconnected. The costs balance out.
Fiber-optic internet at home; cell phones when we're out. No more dial up or being tied to landlines.
No, not a Luddite.
August 29, 2006 | Comments (14) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Home Again, Home Again. . .
Hooray! My boys are all home with me.
August 20, 2006 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
While the Boys Are Out of Town. . .
My list of things to do while the guys are gone this weekend:
Hair Cut/Highlighted
Visit Bookstores, B&N, Borders, Living Word, Goodwill
Clean the Fridge / Freezer
Grocery / Produce Market
Photo CD for Sis
Package to Mail GCM
Catch up on Laundry
Make Bulk Batches of Black Beans, Lentils, Rice
Make Granola
Dust Ceiling Fans
General House Cleaning
Gather Package for Katya / Sasha
Review GL
Review JF
Edit Hubby's Article
Edit Friend's Website
Edit Hubby's Book (See a pattern?)
Dove Chocolate/Cherry Courtship Ice Cream
Go to the Library
Add History/Bible to Homeschool Tracker
Check Kiddo's Math
Make Next Week's School Schedule
Amaretto Cherries
Watch Chick Flicks:
Raising Helen
The Shop Around the Corner
Good Night and Good Luck
Start Christmas Gift List
Pay Bills
Read Books
Listen to Lectures
August 19, 2006 | Comments (13) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
It's Toooooo Quiet
Hubby and the boys left this morning for a trip to South Carolina. C5 was born in Columbia, SC, so he's especially excited to visit his birth state.
(Each of the boys has especial affinity for the part of the country in which they were born. Trivia: Each of our children was born in a different state. None was born in the state in which he was conceived.)
Hubby's little brother has become one of Uncle Sam's Misguided Children. He's graduating from basic at Parris Island. Hubby and the boys have taken our first road trip since returning to the States to support his little brother. (They'll also be visiting the USS Yorktown and historical Charleston. The last time we were in Charleston was 1999, visiting some friends. . .)
And while I have a couple of Netflix movies that haven't made it to the top of the queue when the rest of the family is home, and while I plan on getting a long over-due haircut, and while I have some projects I'm looking forward to working on. . . it's hard to relax or concentrate with a house this quiet.
Update: Hubby called. He and the boys are safe and having a wonderful time. He says I make better barbeque than then legendary place at exit 14 when you cross over the Georgia line. And I'm off too watch "Raising Helen." Not because I've heard it is a great movie, but because we purchased pirated versions in Ukraine--multiple times--which promised to be in English but never were. Po-russki, it's called "Modnyia Mama." It's like completing a mission to finally watch it. . . And I'm drinking white zin, a vino Hubby finds less than appealing.
August 17, 2006 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Define: Journal
"What's a journal?" asked R7.
"It's like a blog--only on paper."
August 13, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Battle of New Orleans (in Florida)
In 1814 we took a little trip
Along with Colonel Jackson down the mighty Mississip.
We took a little bacon and we took a little beans
And we caught the bloody British in the town of New Orleans.[Chorus:]
We fired our guns and the British kept a'comin.
There wasn't nigh as many as there was a while ago.
We fired once more and they began to runnin' on
Down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico.We looked down the river and we see'd the British come.
And there must have been a hundred of'em beatin' on the drum.
They stepped so high and they made the bugles ring.
We stood by our cotton bales and didn't say a thing.[Chorus:]
We fired our guns and the British kept a'comin.
There wasn't nigh as many as there was a while ago.
We fired once more and they began to runnin' on
Down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico.Old Hickory said we could take 'em by surprise
If we didn't fire our muskets 'til we looked 'em in the eye
We held our fire 'til we see'd their faces well.
Then we opened up with squirrel guns and really gave 'em ... well[Chorus:]
We fired our guns and the British kept a'comin.
There wasn't nigh as many as there was a while ago.
We fired once more and they began to runnin' on
Down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico.Yeah, they ran through the briars and they ran through the brambles
And they ran through the bushes where a rabbit couldn't go.
They ran so fast that the hounds couldn't catch 'em
Down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico.**We fired our cannon 'til the barrel melted down.
So we grabbed an alligator and we fought another round.
We filled his head with cannon balls, and powdered his behind
And when we touched the powder off, the gator lost his mind.[Chorus:]
We fired our guns and the British kept a'comin.
There wasn't nigh as many as there was a while ago.
We fired once more and they began to runnin' on
Down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico.Yeah, they ran through the briars and they ran through the brambles
And they ran through the bushes where a rabbit couldn't go.
They ran so fast that the hounds couldn't catch 'em
Down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico.
Hubby used his birthday money from his sister to buy music, including this Johnny Horton CD. He got it especially for the boys, as they are studying US history this year and next. (Thought US history would be more meaningful the years we live in the States and can do historical field trips.)
The boys have the lyrics nearly memorized to this song, Sink the Bismark, Johnny Reb, and Johnny Freedom.
Do you remember acting out songs when you were a kid? I did all the time, especially with my sister and one of my friends. This evening I've watched the boys' choreography to Battle of New Orleans evolve. Near the end of the evening, J10 was costumed all in red and R7 all in blue--the British and Ol' Hickory.
Ahhhh. . . I love watching my boys' childhood. . .
Update: Thanks to Mrs. Crumley, check out this lego brick film of the Battle of New Orleans. What a way to learn history. . .
August 10, 2006 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Arizona Honeymoon
as they celebrate their marriage,
from one full moon to the next.
August 09, 2006 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
When I Was A Kid. . .
When I was a kid, school didn't start until after Labor Day, and wrapped up right about Memorial Day.
The school district in which we reside begins classes Monday. In the city just north of us, school started last week.
Homeschooling, we're following a more traditional calendar. Not quite waiting until Labor Day, but we aren't starting Monday. It's still summerime here!
For those who live in Florida, here's a sample letter of intent to file with your school district, as required by Florida state law. Thanks to the Learning and Families homeschool group for providing it online.
August 05, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Healthy Hot Dogs?
The boys had hot dogs for lunch. Hubby was quick to inform me that they were healthy hotdogs--served with flax seed, spinach, avocado and ketchup. He said they were delicious.
I'll take his word on it.
August 02, 2006 | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Saturday Errands
We woke Hubby up this morning with Bisbee Coffee and biscotti. Happy Birthday, honey!
The boys and I drove him downtown to work with his dad, and then we walked around the Downtown Farmer's Market. We bought some spices and looked at some art done by orphans around the world.
Then we went to the library. Not only did the boys get their books, but I scored at the library used book sale--a vintage Babywise book--the same bluish cover edition (1993) that we had when J10 was a baby.
After that, to Fruitville Market. Six pounds of cherries for Amaretto Cherries. Spinach. Broccoli. Cheap bananas. Peppers. Key Limes. Local Mangos. And a peach milkshake.
Now we're packing bags for the boys to have a sleepover with the grandparents tonight.
Hubby and I have reservations at a nice restaurant downtown, will be going to Lido Key, and are celebrating our eleventh anniversary.
July 29, 2006 | Comments (8) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Family Update. . .
We have a new pet. A ringneck snake Hubby caught in the pool. He's feeding it my worms. So far it doesn't have a name. I wonder whether it says something about our family that all of our pets are cold-blooded--a snake, a fish, and worms.
I can't believe it's already near the end of July. In early July I was able to go to Arizona to see my family and my sister wed her music man.
Dad gave me a tour of his house-under-construction. It is amazing. I wish he had a blog with details about it and a virtual tour. But in short, it's on the side of a mountain and fits there so perfectly. It's designed for the climate and environment there and quite self-sustaining. The ideas are from Dad, and designed with help from an architect friend. Every window has an amazing view.
We're gearing up for homeschooling. Hubby and I had our plans, and then *stress* and we're not quite sure what materials we'll be using. But summer has been peaceful and wonderful and we're really happy about homeschooling this fall. We're also building in extra breaks for when Hubby is at the end-of-semester crunch with grad school.
On Friday we went out for ribs with Hubby's family, and had a sleepover there. Now that they are traveling together with their business, we're trying to take advantage of each weekend they are home. We watched Sledge Hammer, a hilarious cop show Hubby used to watch with his dad when he was a kid.
I have pics downloaded and keep meaning to put up, but then get distracted.
I'm very distractable these days.
July 22, 2006 | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Family Dream Vacation
T8 knows everything about whales. In fact, he was reading a library book aloud to me tonight and told me that the length/weight information was "off" in this book. He's read enough about whales to see the inconsistencies.
Check out this cool vacation--swimming with the whales in the South Pacific.
But as it would be nearly 10K for our family, I think we'll have to plan for and be content to swim with the manatees.
July 05, 2006 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
With a Bible and a Gun
Today my son turns ten. My baby, my firstborn.
He was born in the same city where we are now living. I labored at the beach with him, before going to the birthing center and then transferring to the hospital. It was a long labor. I wish someone had named transition to me when I was in the midst of it. Pushing was a relief.
When he was born and was placed in my arms, I had an unknown feeling, an unrecognized new love overwhelm me. I remember in that moment identifying with Eve. "With the help of the LORD I have brought forth a man."
So J is now 10. To mark his first decade he was given two gifts, his first full Bible and a shotgun.
June 30, 2006 | Comments (19) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
What's Abortion, Mom?
Just the sort of question I haven't wanted to hear. And today J9 asked it.
By some parents' standards we're pretty permissive. The boys have seen all of the LOTR movies, myriad times. We've read them Greek myths and talked about false gods and beliefs. They've known street kids and learned how to look for syringes at the park and what to do if they see one. By other standards, we're over-protective. They have carefully guarded them from any sexualized media. They haven't spent the night with anyone outside the family. We spend limited time away from the kiddos. They only learned what divorce was in the past year. Only last month did the two older boys get a "talk" about how God brings babies into families.
The concept and reality of abortion is something I've wanted to protect them from. Knowing some babies are killed? While they are defenseless and still growing in mommy? And that it done intentionally? What a horrid idea for a child to learn.
J9 is quite politically-inclined. He has a Katherine Harris t-shirt. Wants to form a Young America's chapter in the neighborhood. Is proud to be an American, and a Republican. Somewhere along his reading he's seen the word abortion. He saw that word on my screen this evening, and that's what prompted the question.
"What's abortion, Mom?"
My first answer, "Honey, it's bedtime and I'm too tired. Let's talk about that later." Yup. The lazy answer.
A minute later I called him to me. "What do you think abortion is?"
"I don't know. I've just seen the word."
And I weighed. Do I bring him a step further into the knowledge of how fallen our world is? Can I delay it? Please, my son is only nine-turning-ten-this-week. I don't want him to know about abortion yet.
I was his age when I first read Diary of an Unborn Child. My mom had a tract from Last Days' Ministries. I think there were daisies on the front. I know I had a concept of abortion before then, but that's when I really became aware of what abortion truly was.
I have a small pregnancy diary online from when I was expecting C5. Along with it are pictures of several stages of development. So I took J9 to that webpage and we looked at the pictures and I told him about how babies grow in the womb. We talked about how they start with just two cells and the difference between those two cells and a 10 year old is simply time and nutrition. We talked about how funny they look at 6 weeks old. We laughed at the 24 week "old man" baby picture.
And then I told him.
Abortion is when people go to a doctor to intentionally kill a baby before he is born.
Silence.
I watched his face. His eyes flitting from picture to picture. The look of horror, bewilderment.
He sat on my lap and we hugged and were sad and silent together.
June 28, 2006 | Comments (22) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
It's Pouring. . .
And the boys are swimming in the pool, the sky is yellow and the rain is pouring down.
Ack. Just started thundering. Calling five wet boys into the house.
June 21, 2006 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Book Club
T8 and I have started a mommy-son book club. He chose the first book we're both going to read and then discuss: Little Pilgrim's Progress.
I highly recommend it. It is great as a read aloud. I've read it a couple of times to the boys (and then read it on tape so they can listen to it again.) While Helen Taylor takes liberties, I find she stays true to the heart of the John Bunyan classic.
June 20, 2006 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Our Home, Happy Father's Day
But O, my babies on the floor;
My wife's blithe welcome at the door;
My bread well earned with sweat of brows;
My garden flowerful, green of boughs;
Friends, books;
I would not change ye for ten thousand pounds.
--Cosmo Monkhouse, 'Rondel'
June 18, 2006 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
My Sister is Glowing
June 17, 2006 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Alberto, Our First Named Storm
I think everyone is a bit more alert and anxious, after last year's Hurricane Katrina. In the past, I remember never being worried about hurricanes (though we lived in LA, MS, FL, Cuba. . .)
We live along the border between the hurricane warning area and the tropical storm warning area is, according to the NOAA's most recent advisory on Alberto. The wind is picking up. We lost electricity for about two hours on Sunday.
Last year, we had more damage and more power outages during the early season tropical storms than we did during the later season actual hurricanes. . . Our personal damage was limited to screens needing to be put back in on the lanai. (Rejoicing at that!)
Knowing that we have family members still rebuilding, regrouping, recouping after Katrina, though, makes me less. . . certain? arrogant? . . . than I used to be about our city being in a storm-free bubble.
I can hear the wind.
June 12, 2006 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Suburban Sunday
I feel sufficiently suburban today.
After church we took a Sunday afternoon nap, and then headed to Home Depot. We bought a goodly supply of home repair and lawn equipment, and came home to work in the yard.
Some of the google searches we've done today:
how to clean tile grout
cinch bugs and st. augustine grass
energy efficiency florida
celcius farenheit conversion
June 11, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Summer Evening
This evening I sat outside on the lanai, drank iced coffee and read a new theology book
The boys were playing with a neighbor(!) in the pool. Five splashing boys.
It was peaceful.
May 31, 2006 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Sick Days. . .
All the boys are coughing. T8 slept away most of yesterday. I've been vomiting. Oh, joy.
Anyway, there are some business-y things I still have to attend to. Phone calls to make. People to contact. Plus, it's the boys' last day of school.
Blah.
May 19, 2006 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Them good ol' boys. . . Singing. . .
Driving home tonight after dark, all the boys except T8 were asleep. We were listening to the radio, windows down, holding hands, singing together. . .
"Bye bye Miss American Pie,
Drove my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry
Them good ol' boys were drinkin whiskey and rye
Singing "This'll be the day that I die,
This'll be the day that I die."
May 18, 2006 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Woman Shoots Gator
Just a few days ago I posted about alligator attacks. And now. . .
A woman shot an alligator that she found on her lanai, attacking her dog. From the details in the story, if this wasn't in our neighborhood, it wasn't too far away.
May 18, 2006 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Bananas and Onions and Beets, Oh My!
We joined the local organic food co-op. While I still get most of my produce from the non-organic roadside market and the grocery store, now each week I'll be picking up a basketful of organic produce as well.
This week's goodies include organic bananas, beets, onions, sweet potatoes and more. I don't think I've ever eaten beets outside of Ukraine. It's weird to have experiences I associate with Ukraine within an American context.
Right now I have a onion frittata in the oven, with a side salad ready for dinner.
May 01, 2006 | Comments (12) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Our Budding Calvinist. . .
J9 asked Hubby tonight, "Are you a 5-point Calvinist?" He's reading a "theological novel"
That led to a brief discussion on infralapsarian and amyraldian views between the two of them.
Then J9 turned to me, "What about you?"
"Why do you think I'm called TulipGirl?"
*grin*
April 29, 2006 | Comments (12) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Bedtime Boy Said
"The Germans and the Japanese don't."
"Don't what, honey?"
"The Germans and the Japanese don't have to go to bed at this certain hour."
(Conversation with C5, as he snuggled on my lap, moments before he drifted to sleep.)
April 27, 2006 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Oh, crap!
"Oh, crap!" I heard my 8 year old say, as we drove down the road in the minivan the other day. Shocked me a bit. Haven't heard him use language like that before.
His expletive was followed by some banging, and sounds of paper being rumpled, and a book being slammed shut.
"What's going on?"
"Those stupid guys are whalehunting again. And they killed the whale already."
T8 is reading an illustrated version of Moby Dick. T8, my whale lover, budding marine biologist. He has a great sensitivity to injustices, chief of which is whale hunting.
A few days later he told me, "You know what I'd do if I were a millionaire?"
"No, what?"
"I wouldn't be foolish with my money. I'd buy a big house and get a wife and a bunch of kids. But I wouldn't just buy them every toy they wanted. And I'd work at the aquarium. If I couldn't work with the whales, well, then I'd just be the guy that feeds the sharks."
April 23, 2006 | Comments (8) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
One Year
This is where I would insert a post reflecting on what life and the Lord has brought us in the past year. One year ago today, we stepped back onto US soil. One year ago was the ending of our life in Ukraine. Understandably, I've been a bit emotional today. Contemplative.
And I can't quite bring myself to blog on it beyond this.
But I do want to thank everyone who has prayed for us, supported us, encouraged us--both in our time in Ukraine and our time in the States.
April 15, 2006 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Of Books and Bands Unheard Of
So I went to the local Christian bookstore tonight. . . I like it, in spite of some of the cheesiness that is inevitable these days in Christian bookstores. It helps that a manager there goes to our neighborhood PCA and consciously stocks books I'd like to buy.
Anyway, there's a systematic theology I've heard about. While I adore Berkof, I wanted to get another perspective as well. I couldn't remember the authors name. "Grudem?" asked Skip.
"Nooo. . ."
"Oh, Reymond?"
"Yes!"
He showed me to the last one in stock. Yikes. I forgot the price tags that come along with books like that. I bought it anyway, thanks justifying that I might not get a 20% off coupon from Skip again, and that my folks sent me a birthday check a few weeks ago. (That birthday money also bought me new jammies. And a couple trips to the local coffee shop. And a few other things. It's the gift that keeps on giving. Or at least, keeps on letting me find room in the budget for splurge buys. . . *L*)
After that I wandered back to the music section. While I've enjoyed a wide range of music through the years, I've only allowed myself to be called a fan of The Choir. They recently released a new album. I couldn't find it. I asked the guy in the music section where I'd find it.
"The Choir? That's the group?"
"Yes, The Choir. O How the Mighty Have Fallen."
"Do you mean the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir?"
"No. Just The Choir."
"Hmmm. . . They must be an older group."
"You've never heard of The Choir? They're classic. Mid-80s SoCal alternative Christian pioneers?"
"No. . ."
I was shaking my head. The music "expert" for the store had never heard of The Choir. And I was feeling my age. Especially after his, "They must be an older group" comment. I had picked up "At the Foot of the Cross" and asked him if he was familiar with that. He was. I pointed out that Steve Hindalong was the producer, Steve Hindalong the lyricist and percussionist for the Choir. Blank look.
He looked it up on the computer. That store had never ordered, stocked, or sold a single Choir CD. The mind boggles. I told him he had to order something, just for his own listening edification.
I guess I'll just order it directly from Dan, Derri, and Steve. I bet this birthday check could stretch infinitely.
Remind me one day of swooning around Steve's parents and my "I'm a greedy little monkey" story.
April 08, 2006 | Comments (12) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Our Betta
I guess my worms on the lanai aren't enough.
The boys have been wanting to get a pet again. They came across an online game in which you try to keep your fish alive and breed them to come up with new fish. (Which brought up its own set of questions. . .) They've been been pouring over a library book on aquarium fish for several days.
Fish are easy, right? Easy and possibly not quick to kill? We had goldfish when the boys were toddlers, and it was the nasty Midland water that got to them. Honest, it wasn't me.
So today we ventured out and chose a betta. The type that is supposed to thrive in a smallish environment without all the fancy set ups that non-pet-people like me can handle. (Also read: cheap.)
The boys had quite the time choosing a name.
C5's first suggestion was "Bubbly." That was quickly shot down. Soon after, though, the boys had narrowed it down to naming our betta after a Greek god.
"Who was the Greek god of war? What was his name? You know, the Romans called him Mars. . ." J9 asked. I couldn't remember. Honestly, all the Greek deities kind of blend together for me, and it has been over a year since we studied ancient Greece. Finally someone piped up, "Ares!"
T8 recommended Poseidon. Then started the lively debate over whether Ares or Poseidon was the most appropriate name for our little betta. R7 was in favor of Ares. "I can never remember how to say the other guy's name!" J9 argued against Ares, even though he recommended that name. "Sure he was the god of war, but if he got hurt, he just ran away."
I was silently rooting for Poseidon.
It was a lively 10 minute debate before settling on something they mutally agreed upon. The consensus? Poseidon. But his full name is Poseidon Ares B_____.
Oh, did I mention the boys named R7's cactus? Spike George B_____.
March 31, 2006 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Spring Break Bits
So far we've had a wonderful, relaxing, fun spring break. *grin* The boys have gone swimming every day, in spite of the water being frigid. We went to Dinosaur World in Plant City on Tuesday. It was very kid-friendly, and for those who are local, they'll be having discounted tickets for homeschoolers throughout the month of May. I took a lot of pics with my ancient Nikon (which I love, but doesn't have the instant gratification of digital. . .) I might get photos up later this week, though.
Yesterday we went to the beach on Anna Maria Island. Went with a friend I've known since our boys were babies together, 9+ years ago. We laughed at how uptight we were there, but thinking we were relaxed and had it all together. And we talked about how gracious God is. . . Lots and lots of good talking. Haven't had a "girlfriend" type talk like that in awhile. Between the two of us we have six boys. Lots of fun, lots of energy. And they were wonderful and didn't get too sunburned.
I've fallen asleep around 9pm each night. And haven't woken until 9am. I think I really have needed the rest.
We've also made a couple trips to the library. We've been avoiding it because of library fines. *blush* Yes, I have a payment plan with my local library because of overdue fees. And yes, we borrowed Hubby's card for our library excursions this week.
I haven't gotten anywhere close to the around-the-house projects I wanted to tackle. In fact, I bought strawberries while we were in Plant City and we're munching on them instead of making jam. Ahh, well. I'm hoping we'll actually scrub down the vehicles inside and out tomorrow, but if we don't. . . they'll survive.
I have a bit of a stomach bug or something and feel kinda nasty.
I think I need to sip some peppermint tea.
March 30, 2006 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Growing Bolder Child Within My Heart
I took my love, I took it down
Climbed a mountain and I turned around
and I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills
'Till the landslide brought me down
Oh, mirror in the sky
What is love
Can the child within my heart rise above
Can I sail through the changing ocean tides
Can I handle the seasons of my life~~~
Well, I've been afraid of changing
'Cause I've built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Even children get older
And I'm getting older too
Oh I'm getting older too
Happy birthday, Mom.
March 26, 2006 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Spring Break
Hooray! Spring break is here! And unlike the crazy college students who fly down to Florida for spring break, I always get to live here and enjoy the sunshine. *eg*
One of the differences between homeschooling and having the boys in school is the increased appreciation I have for vacations and holidays.
Right now J9 is swimming laps in the pool. Now, it's waaaaay too freezing for me to swim, but he's a tough kid and loves the water.
Our Spring Break plans include a around-the-house project each day. (Ahhh, yes, I'm the queen of procrastinating when it comes to these things) and an fun outing.
Today we washed the inside walls in the house. We tend to get lots of fingerprints, footprints, and various banging prints on the walls of our home. The boys wiped them down, and I followed up with the Mr. Clean eraser. I love that cleaning tool. The next time I send a goodie box to my missionary friends, I'm sending Mr. Clean erasers.
We also went to see the Curious George movie and ate Curious George snacks, thanks to my Mom's suggestion. And I took a long afternoon nap. Okay, maybe not the boys' idea of fun during Spring Break, but it definitely works for me. *grin*
This Week's Projects:
Sweep and Scrub the Lanai
Make Strawberry Jam
Weed and Mulch the Front Yard
Clothes--Give Away, Dry Clean, Launder, Organize
ReOrganize Kitchen, Store Hurricane Supplies
Clean Desk/Organize Bills
Clean Car/Van Inside/Out
Dust Everything, Especially Fans
This Week's Fun:
The Library--T7 has been begging and begging to go to the library. I in my post-Ukraine excitement, overused the library when we returned to the tune of impressive overdue fines. So, the library has been avoided of late.
Dinosaur World
U-Pic Strawberries
The Beach
Reread the Chronicles of Narnia
G-Wiz
Living Room Forts
Florida Air Show, maybe
March 24, 2006 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
QOTD
. . .At the last checkpoint we took the kids out and witnessed eight soldiers melt. behind cammo and guns - eyes softened at the sight of an infant in tyedye and a little blonde barefoot shirtless girl playing in the dirt. when it was fine to leave we herad over and over "thank you my friend, thank you my friend". --mountain mama
March 11, 2006 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Woohoo! Thank you!
A dear, sweet friend, Carol of Parenting Decisions, sent me some goodies from Amazon. Two brown cardboard boxes greeted me when I came home today. I sure to feel loved. And spoiled.
Carol also sent us goody-boxes when we were overseas, packed with care by her kiddos and herself. Even her husband carefully chose just the right HotWheels to send to our boys. I'm so blessed to have friends like this, friends through the years and over the miles.
March 08, 2006 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Bad Words All The Time
February 05, 2006 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Weird Ethnic Foods Night
When Hubby came home from the grocery store last night, he announced, "Tonight is Weird Ethnic Foods night!" Thanks to the gourmet and ethnic sections of the grocery store, Hubby planned our dinner menu:
Indian Mutter Paneer
Indian Dhingri Mutter
Indian Spiced Rice
Indian Spiced Chai
Greek Olive Bread
Greek Stuffed Grape Leaves
Greek Three Pepper Hummas
Greek Flat Bread
French Goat Cheese
Japanese Sushi
And the kids ate it all! J9 especially liked the sushi. T8 loved the mutter dishes. R6 was tired, but drank lots of chai. C5 asked for seconds on the goat cheese. . . And I'm having flat bread, hummus, and sprouts for lunch.
January 29, 2006 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Dinner and Google
I tried to resist interrupting dinner, but I jut had to google something in the midst of our conversation. We were talking about world population, food, and such, and I needed to know which country had the most arable land by area.
It took a little longer than expected to find the answer. The first search came up with arable land as a percentage of country land mass. The top three?
Bangladesh
Ukraine
Denmark
Yeah, I'm a bit surprised, too.
But arable land by area?
United States
India
Russian Federation
Okay. Back to dinner.
The conversation evolved to Christianity and capitalism. Which led to Hubby pulling Novak's "The Spirit of Democratic Capitalism" off of the shelf and J9 begging to read it. . .
January 28, 2006 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
I'm a Vermiculturist
I finally got my worms. I've been wanting to do worm kitchen composting for several years. While we had an ideal place for a worm bin in Ukraine, we were already weird Americans and I didn't want to further freak out my Ukrainian neighbors.
The past couple of months here in Florida, I've been looking into it again. Today I stopped at Mr. B's Bait Shop and asked if they had any red wigglers. They did! And Penny (who is the type of woman who obviously enjoys fishing) was very tolerant of my non-fishing request, and gave me a few pointers she'd picked up from other worm composters who had bought their red wigglers from her.
I already had a plastic bin that I had sized for under the sink. A couple of weeks ago I prepared bedding of corrogated cardboard squares and newspaper strips. But my plastic container wasn't quite ready. Worms need lots of oxygen--they breathe through their skin. And the compost needs it, too--otherwise it will start anaerobic and smelly decay. So, I stopped at Target and bought myself a small and girly hand-held drill. My first worms AND my first power tool! We are so not power tool people. I drilled bunches of holes in my container.
Then I gently dumped my two styrofoam containers of worms onto the top of the damp bedding. At first I thought about half were already dead. Laying there still and wormie. But they were just in shock. After about a minute most of them had wiggled deep into their new home. A couple were still on top and still. But when I went to take them out, they all started wiggling. Not a dead worm in the bunch!
But then I committed vermicide. Unitentional worm slaughter. Well, maybe slaughter is too big a word, since I killed only about 10. I drilled air holes into my container below the bedding line (I thought I read it was okay) and several escaped and shrivelled up overnight. Hubby said he heard little wormy voices chanting "Attica, attica!" before they made their break. So, I taped up those holes, and checked and saw I still had live worms, and we'll go from here.
More resources on vermiculture:
The Burrow Presents. . .
Worm Digest
Worms Eat My Garbage
Composting with Red Wigglers
Worm Bins, Illustrated
Easy Worm Bin
January 07, 2006 | Comments (17) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Goals, Desires, Dreams 2006
Goals:
1. Couch to 5K. The sloooooow plan.
2. Develop more family routines, ala Flylady.
3. Take a college class this year.
4. Finish memorizing the Children's Catechism with the boys.
5. Floss more.
Desires:
1. Find a friend to whom I can be spiritually accountable, and will encourage me in my walk with the Lord.
2. Reconnect with family, friends, supporters.
3. Be more comfortable with techy stuff.
4. Read more. Write more.
5. Go on more dates with Hubby.
6. Start vermicomposting.
Dreams:
See the Mondo Beyondo list.
Btw, this is not a definitive list, and is open to updating and modification. . . *grin*
January 01, 2006 | Comments (13) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Mondo Beyondo -- The Dream List 2006
Obviously, the Mondo Beyondo list includes things that are far into the future, not just this year. This is my day-dream list.
1. Live in Paris, in the Third Arrondissement.
2. Have another baby.
3. Finish my undergrad, and go on to grad school/seminary.
4. Be on the college lecture circuit and given handsome honoraria.
5. Drive an old Jaguar.
6. Learn to Dance.
7. Sing lullabies to grandbabies.
8. Write something lasting.
9. Wear my wedding dress/engagement ring again.
Btw, this is not a definitive list, and is open to updating and modification. . . *grin*
January 01, 2006 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Mondo Beyondo 2006
I like the New Year.
I like having a time to collect my thoughts from the past year. A time to reflect, be grateful, see how far the Lord has brought me.
I like having a time to dream.
A few years ago, some girlfriends introduced me to the idea of a "Mondo Beyondo List" for the new year. This is the list of all the wild and crazy dreams we have, the things that are so out there it is almost scary to write them down. This isn't a resolutions list of eating healthier and spending wiser. This is the mondo beyondo list, the ideas that tug at your heart and are almost out of reach even of day dreams.
I'm taking some time this week to day dream. And I'll post my Mondo Beyondo list come January 1st. (Well, at least part of it--some is too scary to post publicly--you know. . .)
Please share yours, too--either on your own blog or in the comments.
Mondo Beyondo Lists:
Lenise's
Kristen's
Hannah Im's
Amie's
Christina's
December 31, 2005 | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Getting Ready. . .
Woohoo! We're getting ready for the Laurichka! Aunt Laura from Kyiv is coming to visit and spend New Year's, a traditional Ukrainian New Year's, with us!
(And, oh, I am soooo behind on laundry. . . And that guest room we e-mailed her about? It's still the office/storage room. Ah, well. She knows us well, knows all our dirt, and loves us anyway.)
December 29, 2005 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
*whispering*
I have a sore throat and having trouble talking. It's getting worse. *quiet sigh*
December 24, 2005 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Crazy Kids
It's in the low 70s. The pool water has been too cold for over a month. Yet, those crazy kids are swimming.
Okay, so we were playing around and I pushed them in. *eg*
But now they are swimming and freezing and having fun.
Gotta love winter in Florida.
December 18, 2005 | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Christmas Gift List
I keep making my list and crossing it off, and then misplacing it. *blush* No, I don't rank among the super-organized like the ladies at Organized Christmas or FlyLady. But the important parts of the holiday are coming together--the smell of baking, the sound of carols, doing the Jesse Tree, lighting advent candles. . .
Anyway, so I don't lose my gift list again, I'm posting it here.
Grandparents M: Card and Photos
Grandparents B: Card and Photos
Grandparents R: Card and Photos
(Still need to choose photos and have them printed.)
My Family:
Dad: Bought (not posting it--Mom might see it!)
Mom: ???
MtnMama and family: Ordered, shipped (You can open it early! *grin* It's for the whole family, but especially the kiddos.)
Johnny: ???
Hubby's Family:
Pop: Book on CD, Ordered
Mom: Book, Chocolate, Surprise, Ordered/Bought
Mike and Shelly: Bread Dipping Spices and Olive Oil, Made/Bought
Their Kids: Christmas Traditions Box, Ordered/Bought
Amanda and Jonathan: ??? (Movie and Popcorn?)
Andrew: 1/2 bought
Kids' Teachers:
Mrs. D: Post It Notes, Bought
Mrs. E: ???
Mrs. K: Chocolate, Bought
Miss S: Cosmetic Bag w/ Goodies, Bought
Other:
Dr J/Dr M: Bread Dipping Spices and Olive Oil, Made/Bought
Dee: Hippie Book/Tension Tamer Collection
Bev: Ukrainian Pysanky
Kiddos: (Not posting too many details, just in case.)
Each year we get one "big" gift for all of them, and then some individual gifts. Some of the past "big" gifts have been: a wooden chess set with child-hand sized pieces and the book "The Story of Chess," an indoor wall anchored gym set, the Chronicles of Narnia book set and reading it aloud.
This year we have two big gift. The first is a certain board game that Hubby loves that he wants to teach the boys to play together as a family.
The second is a new costume storage bin and costumes. The boys love dress up and pretend play, and we encourage that. I found some great post-Halloween sales for costumes that seem very durable, and at 90% off, well, it made for lots of fun costume buying! Also we've ordering them these wooden items.
December 10, 2005 | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Two Little Boys
With beds made up in the bathroom, sipping cool chammomile tea, with occasional trips to vomit.
Update: So far it's gone from R6 to C5 to T8. I was feeling yucky yesterday, but avoided throwing up. Ginger tea and toast feature prominently in our meal plans.
December 09, 2005 | Comments (10) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Jesse Tree from 2002
I just came across a photo of my boys that shows a small part of our Jesse Tree on the left side of the photo. Our Jesse Tree is made of felt and has magnets on the back that hold it to the fridge. Each day's ornament attaches with velcro. You can see five days are up.
This photo is from three years ago, and is taken in our kitchen in Ukraine. My hubby is the guy in the grey turtleneck on the right.
The other guy? I don't remember. . . I think he was an American spending a few weeks in Ukraine who was staying at our house for a few hours on the way to the airport.
November 30, 2005 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Jesse Tree Bible Study. . . You're Invited
Gentle Christian Mothers will be hosting an Advent Bible study, based on the Jesse Tree. The Bible study begins the first Sunday of Advent, November 27th. It will be hosted in the Drawing Closer/Bible Study forum, which is accessible to all registered GCM members. (New mamas are invited to join!)
As Hannah Jo, one of the Bible study leaders explains, "A Jesse Tree displays the family tree of Jesus. All the pivitol events in the Old Testament are drawn together to trace God's faithfulness throughout the generations and the working out of His plan for the salvation of mankind through the coming messiah."
The GCM Jesse Tree Bible study will follow these symbols and scriptures.
Many families are building the Jesse Tree into part of their family Christmas tradition. Here are some daily family devotions based on the Jesse Tree.
Our family has a felt Jesse Tree made by a dear friend over a decade ago for her family. Her children are grown now, and she's shared it with us. It's one of my boys favorite parts of the holiday, building anticipation to the celebration of the coming of the Christ Child.
Curious about what a Jesse Tree looks like?
Jesse Tree 1
Jesse Tree 2
Jesse Tree 3
Jesse Tree 4
Jesse Tree 5
"Children love helping to make the ornaments," says Hannah Jo, "and the Jesse Tree can be a teaching tool to help pass on the faith to yet another generation. We're looking forward to enjoying this tradition together with you!"
November 27, 2005 | Comments (12) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Thanksgiving Memories 2005
Isn't it beautiful? One of our family traditions is that Dad makes the turkey and his fabulous wild rice and sausage stuffing. This year he made two--one for dinner and one for leftovers.
Dad wasn't the only one in the kitchen. My Mom was bustling around so much, that it was only when she sat down to check her e-mail (and my blog) that I was able to snap this picture.
Just a glimpse of our boys eyeing our Thanksgiving Feast. Everything that was suggested made it onto the menu--turkey, stuffing, mashed potatos, gravy, green peas, ginger carrots, cauliflower with cheese, mushrooms, cranberry relish, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, corn on the cob. . .
For dessert, we had pumpkin pie, pecan pie, gingerbread, oatmeal scotchies (made by J9) and ambrosia.
Dad and I were trying to tally up which Thanksgivings we've been together. I think we've spent five of them with my folks, in the ten years we've been married. One of the most momentous ones was 2001--just a few days before we flew over to Ukraine.
November 24, 2005 | Comments (11) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
A Psalm of Exhaustedness
As a school project, J9 wrote a poem in the form of a Psalm.
Psalm of Exhaustedness
Praise Him, praise Him!
I’m exhausted, I’m tired .
Please let me sleep soon,
Lord of my heart,
please let me sleep.Lord, may I go to sleep now?
Lord, I’m exhausted.
Lord, let me sleep.
Lord, let me go to sleep, Lord let me go to sleep.Lord of the earth, I love you!
It sounds to me like something that would have been penned by The Psalmist's wife during her third trimester. . . I guess J9 needs more chamomile tea and an earlier bedtime.
November 20, 2005 | Comments (14) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
I'm so excited!!!
My sister and her kidlets arrive tomorrow! And my parents the day after.
My "to do" list is a mile long.
Finish cleaning the house. (Thanks, sweetheart!)
Get caught up on laundry
Air out the house
Go to the grocery store
Make my Thanksgiving menu
Still open for modifications when the family arrives
Go to Target
Wall screws, black duct tape, light bulb cover
Stool cover, door thingie
Clean the Closet
Clean Walls (I love the Magic Eraser)
Dust! Ugh--Florida has so much.
Mail Packages
Wrap Presents
Clean the office/spare room
Hang magazine rack
Sweep, Vacuum, Mop
Call Mom and Dad
Go to the Farmer's Market
Call Myakka River State Park
Clean the car and van
Weed / Straighten the yard
Straighten the Lanai
Clean out the kitchen cupboards
Clean the fridge
Sort the Kids' Backpacks/Papers
Kids--organize toys
Kids--organize books
Kids--toys in garage
If it all doesn't get done, I know my family will understand. But I want to have things ready and in order.
Woohoo!
I'm so tickled that we're having Thanksgiving together. My brother won't be here, but other than him this will be the first time we're all together since the Thanksgiving right before we left for Ukraine, four years ago.
November 20, 2005 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Blogging on the Mountain
i'm slowly getting the hang of this. i think... so welcome. welcome to my world. my mountain. welcome to a blog that celebrates childhood. celebrates music, prose, and good cuisine! . . . enjoy your stay, comment often, breathe, breathe, breathe, the air is clean, the grasses are high, the wildlife is dangerous, the kids are noisy, and it's all so unpredictably beautiful. the sun is now just staring to rise and water is boiling. i greet the day. greetings to you.
November 18, 2005 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
This Week. . .
Ahhhh. . . This is the life. Hubby blogging at the desktop, and me curled up in the recliner with the laptop. The family that blogs together. . . well, something like that.
My Mom doesn't feed me enough. That's what T7 told the dental assistant when she encouraged him to stop chewing on his numbed cheek. Kids.
Last Friday I had a bit of me time. I finally bought a pair of Gap stretch cords that I've been coveting for years. I know, I know. . . Not very sanctified, but it was out and out coveting. When we were in Ukraine, some friends of mine in the States were just gushing over how soft and comfy their Gap stretch cords were. I wanted a pair sooooo bad. But you know that sort of thing really does need to be tried on in person. Not surprisingly, there are no Gap stores in Kyiv. (Though there was once a rumor of one and a friend and I spent a day trying to find it.) So, I just couldn't resist buying myself a wonderful, beige, buttery-soft cordouroy pants when I went into Gap last week and saw them on sale. And yes, they have met my expectations.
Along with those jeans I bought a copy of Home Comforts. My Mom and Dad sent me some family photos, an encouraging card, and a gift card to the bookstore. It felt great to get that surprise and splurge.
I met with the guidance counselor at the boys' school that day, too. I like Mrs. Smith. She's approachable and wise. She's also lived overseas. I keep running into people at the boys' school who served on the mission field--the elementary principle, guidance counselor, receptionist. . . I've been very thankful for the help and understanding they've shown the boys as they transition into American school culture.
Speaking of which, there is so much I take for granted that my kids know about American culture that they don't necessarily do. This morning on the drive to school, T7 mentioned something about summer vacation and R6 was surprised. "You mean we don't have to go to school all summer?"
This school has been a good choice for our boys at this time. But I have so many homeschool biases still come up. Honestly, I'm a bit annoyed at homework. So many hours at school, and they still have work to do at home?
Several weeks ago, Amy wrote incredulously about frozen PB&J sandwiches and the people who buy them. I secretly thought, "Hey, that's a good idea. . ." While I can't imagine buying frozen PB&J, I did ask some experts if they'd ever frozen PB&J, and how they turned out when thawed. Then I did an experiment of my own. I made three loaves of bread into PB&J last Sunday, and T7 bagged them for me. We froze them. Each morning I pulled one from the freezer while packing lunches. Not a single complaint from the sandwich consumers. It works. And while, yeah, it only takes a few minutes to make them in the morning, I'm all for streamlining morning routines.
Hubby's grandparents arrived in Florida this week. They are unofficially snowbirds, staying several weeks or months each year down hear with Hubby's folks. We met them last night for pizza, and it was so good to see them. It was as if the past four years that we haven't seen them was no time at all.
I'm going to call my grandparents this weekend. They are back in Metairie. Their house is still standing and they've moved back in, but the downstairs was completely ruined by Katrina. I don't even want to think about if the photos MawMaw kept in the parlor were brought upstairs or not. I just realized that the piano on which I learned to play Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star and Mary Had a Little Lamb was likely ruined. I know those are just things, but they represent memories and people and. . . I shouldn't have started thinking down this path. I'm going to call them tomorrow.
My parents are coming for Thanksgiving. I'm absolutely giddy about it. My sister and her children are flying in, too. I can't wait. They haven't seen the boys yet, since we've been back. We're going to go see alligators and my Dad is going to make the turkey, and it's going to be low-key and laid-back and wonderful.
November 11, 2005 | Comments (9) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Harvest Weekend
We went to Harvest UMC's pumpkin patch yesterday to choose our pumpkin family.
I have pumpkin seeds roasting for Sweet and Spicy Pumpkin Seeds. I need to buy another pumpkin for cooking and baking. Read Mollie Katzen's tribute to this humble gourd, and add it to your autumn menu.
I had some free "me" time on Friday, so I went to the library. Two of the books I checked out are worth purchasing. I'm going to keep watching the used bookstores for now, but may break down and buy them on amazon. This first is Home Comforts, a book I first heard about from Carmon. Not only do I want to own this book, but there are several people I'd love to gift it to. *grin* The other is Valerie Worwood's The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, which presents EO ideas and recipes in a way that's accessible to urban earthy-crunchies like me.
Last weekend, we found an ancient copy of Risk at a secondhand store. Of course Hubby snatched it up. Yesterday we spent several hours teaching the boys the rudimentary strategies of taking over the world. Speaking of which, J9 recently finished reading a two inch thick, small print history of World War II. For his fun reading. That kid. . . I'm glad that he alternates betweent he heavy stuff and "Choose Your Own Adventure" books.
Since I've mentioned fluffy reading, I have a teensy-weensy gripe. It's really hard being a homeschool mom with kids in school. I'm disappointed at how ugly the phonics program is, since the boys and I are used to the Phonics Museum from Veritas Press. It bugs me that curlique style handwriting is taught, rather than the more direct italic handwriting. And I cannot imagine *why* the teacher chose a Frank Peretti kids' novel for a class reader / book report instead of one of the many, many children's classics. It seems the fourth graders are all at a reading level to appreciate the Chronicles of Narnia. Or Tom Sawyer. Or any number of books. Why a silly Peretti mystery?
That said, I really appreciate the school the boys are attending. The staff continues to go out of there way to help our boys with their transitions to school and the States. The teachers are attunded to the students. And the quality overall is excellent. Even if I would have done things differently.
R6's class had a "Farm Day" last Friday. They ate corn and did lots of cool farm animal crafts. R6 went to school dressed as a cowboy (the farmer's neighbor. *grin*) And he told his classmates that Florida cowboys are called Crackers.
One of our biggest family excitements is the anticipation of family visiting at Thanksgiving. My sister and her children and my parents are coming! I'm so excited!
When my sister when to pick up her plane tickets, the lady asked my neice, "Are you going to Florida to see Mickey Mouse?" She replied, "Oh, no! My cousins and alligators!"
October 30, 2005 | Comments (11) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Willllllmaaaaaa!
Who doesn't think of Fred Flinstone yelling for the wifey when Hurricane Wilma is mentioned?
We're within the maybe-possibly range for Wilma, but at this point most predictions indicate Wilma will be significantly south of us. This has spurred us to finish cleaning the garage and making sure our sentimental items are in plastic bins. Our home is on high ground (well, high by Florida standards. . .) The most damage I'm concerned about is the wind whipping out the lanai screens--happened during a couple of storms in the spring.
So, we're staying put for now. If my ILs evacuate, we'll go with them. (And I probably won't be able to post if we do. . . Hmmmm. . . Dad and Mom--I'll call B in Az--your phone wasn't working earlier today. . . )
Hubby's working tonight, but the boys are off school tomorrow. Right now I'm planning for a holiday. *grin*
October 23, 2005 | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Big Sister
October 09, 2005 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Babymooning
Welcome to this world, Baby!
October 4, 2005
About 3 am
7 lbs 14 oz
Much love to my sister and her newborn son!
SWEET and low, sweet and low,
Wind of the western sea,
Low, low, breathe and blow,
Wind of the western sea!
Over the rolling waters go,
Come from the dying moon, and blow,
Blow him again to me;
While my little one, while my pretty one, sleeps.
Sleep and rest, sleep and rest,
Father will come to thee soon;
Rest, rest, on mother’s breast,
Father will come to thee soon;
Father will come to his babe in the nest,
Silver sails all out of the west
Under the silver moon:
Sleep, my little one, sleep, my pretty one, sleep.
Sweet and Low by Tennyson
October 04, 2005 | Comments (8) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
I Miss My Blog
I miss writing down the cute and funny and sentimental stories about my kids. I miss journalling our daily lives. Life has become more busy and I'm writing less. And I miss it.
Today I'm making Chunky Granola, with almonds and cranberries. I have white beans simmering to make bean dip for tonight and freeze for future recipes.
Two boys are swimming. One is writing a book. Another is not getting in the pool, but playing with the water.
Yesterday I went on a field trip with T7's class to Mote Marine Laboratory. C4 came along. We got to see manatees, sharks, dolphins and other really cool marine animals. T7 held a crab and a sea urchin, and petted a ray.
T7 loves whales and knows a lot about them. He can identify dozens of them from pictures and tell me facts about them. He's loved whales for a long time, and it has really helped his transition to school that his teacher chose an Ocean theme for their first unit study. With T7's math and science bent and love of whales, I really could see him becoming a marine biologist.
Each morning on the way to school, I drill J9 on his multiplication facts. T7 and R6 know them as well as he does, now.
Hubby just finished a history course on China. I wish he'd post his papers online. Yes, his academic writing reflect the same fear and whimsy that you well know from his blog.
I haven't read much lately. I've skimmed through a few books, but have had trouble making the time/finding the time to sit and read.
Or sit and blog.
October 01, 2005 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Clever Boy.
It's 4:12 am. C4 woke up about a half hour ago with a growing pain in his left leg. I began massaging it with some of my essential oils/massage oils. He was still hurting and said, "It's now in this leg." I began massaging both legs.
A few minutes later, "My feet hurt, too."
October 01, 2005 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
What I'm. . .
What I'm. . .
Drinking: French Market Coffee and Chickory
Reading: Common Ground, the book
Thinking: About the nature of sin and sanctification
Cross-posting: Heart to Hearth
Watching: My kids making paper airplanes
Playing: Suduko, (Thanks, sparkling Barbara)
Cooking: Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Waiting: For my sister to call, announcing my nephew is born
Cleaning: Walls & fingerprints
September 24, 2005 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
J9's Memory Work August 2005
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
August 27, 2005 | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
This Week. . .
So here I am, sitting on our lanai, blogging from the laptop, and the boys are swimming. For almost half the summer, the pool was out of commission. The people who lived in our home before us had three dogs who swam regularly, according to our neigbors. Totally messed up the pool system. So, it feels good to have a warm, sunny day to be outside with the boys and swim. *grin*
R6 and T7 are "fishing" with the pool cleaning net. C4 is being a blue whale, but with swimmies on.
The other morning on the way to school T7 said, "First grade is too easy. But I don't want to go to second grade. I'll just ask my teacher for harder work." Yesterday afternoon, his eyes just lit up and he announced, "I'm learning SO much in school!" That really makes me happy. They are studying the oceans and whales. T7 loves whales, and can identify about 30 types. Childhood obsessions don't necessarily point to future interests, but I really could picture T7 as a marine biologist.
Today J9 is out with Grandma, going to the Lowry Park Zoo for his birthday outing. His birthday was at the end of June, but Grandma likes to have a special one-on-one outing with each grandchild for their birthday, and this was the best weekend for it.
Thursday was a weird day. People all over town were acting the way barn animals do before a storm. Skittish, bizarre behaviour. I swear, I met more people acting in odd ways before this hurrican than I have in ages. (Btw, Hurrican Katrina totally passed us by.)
Last Friday I paid our humongous library fines. Cheap at twice the price, though, for the great service they provide. I adore interlibrary loan and being able to manage my library account online. Hubby had several books out from the library for his China course, and that's what led to the fees. Still, reasonable, considering we didn't have to buy ten textbooks. His essays are great--I hope he puts him on his blog soon.
I've been reading very little these days. Very tired lately. However, whenever I'm in the car I've listening to Dorothy Sayers Strong Poison on tape. I've heard Dorothy Sayers praised before, but this is my first introduction to her fiction writing. Very quotable.
August 27, 2005 | Comments (10) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
No Travels by Train
"The next time we go somewhere other than Sarasota, let's not take a train. I hate trains. They make my breath terrible."
--R6, August 19, 2005
August 19, 2005 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Laptop Envy
We want/need a laptop computer. Mostly for Hubby's grad school, but also 'cause I really want one.
This will be our first foray away from desktop computers.
Any recommendations about what to look for and what to avoid? Any great deals you've heard of lately?
August 15, 2005 | Comments (16) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
First Day of School 2005
Serious about School
J9 is in 4th Grade
T7 is in 1st Grade
R6 is in Kindergarten
Highlights of the Week:
* Really cool school supplies.
* Morning and evening routines went smoothly. Mostly.
* School uniforms are great. Except when we get to school and see that one of the older boys is wearing the younger boys too-short-shorts.
* Lunch box lunches!
* The elementary school principal was part of an MK school in Africa for 13 years, and really understands the transitions.
* T7 really connected with his teacher, Mrs. E. And he gets to sit in the front row.
* Lots of hugs at drop off and pick up.
* R6's confidence at school.
* Meeting with the teachers at the end of the week to assess things.
* Solid teachers, even if they aren't Presbyterian.
August 13, 2005 | Comments (8) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Mommy Brag
My kids are so cool.
T7 is great at mental math. We haven't done much workbook math, but we've talked a lot about concepts and real life math. I popped my head into T7's classroom after school on Friday. His first grade teacher was correcting math problems and said, "T7 is really good in math. He got all these problems right." I told her we did a lot of mental math and he likes percentages.
She replied, "Ah. Yes, he kept asking me what percentage done we were each day. Obviously he's heard you talk about that. I'm not sure he understands it, though."
Today T7 and I were talking about time on the computer, and so I asked him, "If you had an hour to play games, and were 50% done, how much time would you have left?"
"30 minutes," he replied without hesitating.
"What if I have you 4 sandwiches for lunch and you ate 75%? How many would you have left?"
"One."
We high-fived. He's a smart cookie, when it comes to mental math.
August 13, 2005 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Online Offline Convos
I got to talk with my sister today, for nearly an hour and a half. It's so weird to be able to talk with her any ol' time via the phone. I'm out of the habit of calling people so it's good she called me.
In our conversation, we mentioned Amy who Loves Books. My sister doesn't blog, but has a small circle of blogs she reads faithfully. We talked about some things Amy has been very transparent about and how having someone be real about those struggles makes it easier to identify and address them ourselves.
Thanks, Amy. Whoever says blogging isn't part of "real life" is wrong.
August 13, 2005 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Starting the Weekend
Relaxing with Indelible Grace and a glass of red wine.
August 12, 2005 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
A Shiny Red Apple for the Teacher
So, I'm hanging up my homeschooling hat.
Hubby has been the boys' primary teacher since we returned to the States and has done a fantastic job. We've discussed and prayed and pondered what our children need during this time of transition. And here we are. The first day of school-building-school.
And there is this part of me that feels like now I'm going to be judged and rejected and mistrusted. . . No more a homeschooling mom. Losing those good Christian mother brownie points.
I've been involved with homeschooling for 16+ years. Doing research, rejecting highschool and being homeschooled myself, homeschooling family members, homeschooling my children. I'm a fan. I value understanding our children and nurturing who they are, as individuals.
My Dad and Mom passed on their values of the high worth of education. I remember checking out Greenway, the local public elementary school when we moved to a new town. It was depressing as heck. (Still is, a friend who taught there one year said.) We ended up in a tiny amazing Christian family-run school. My Dad taught high school there for awhile. We bought a building for the school to occupy and lived upstairs. All the while my folks were passing along the value of finding what is best for each child, each year.
And that changed throughout the growing up years for me and my siblings. Homeschooled, Christian schools--and even public and boarding schools.
Each child, each family, each year. . . Discerning the needs and finding the best situation for meeting those needs.
So I've been sniffing a bit as I'm laying out school clothes. Feeling emotional as I buy a list supplies from Target, rather than choosing curricula from an enticing catalog. Not quite ready to hug them and let them go in the morning. . . Yet peaceful and confident as I release them into their structured classrooms that this is the next Providential step for them.
August 08, 2005 | Comments (30) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Our Dinner Discussion
Gandalf vs. Dumbledore
Who'd win and why?
July 31, 2005 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
String Beans and Onions And Big Juicy Lemons
Today's soundrack is my boys singing jazz. . .
Yes, we have no bananas
Louis Prima version(Oh yes,) We have no bananas
We have no bananas today
We got string beans and onions
And big juicy lemons
And all kinds of fruit and say…We got an old fashioned tomato
A Long Island pot-at-o
(Oh yes,) We have no bananas
We have no bananas todayThere’s a fruit man on our street
Whose name is Mr Pete
And he keeps good things to eat
But you should hear him speak
When you ask him anything
He never answers no
He just “Yeses” you to death
And then he takes your dough(Oh yes,) We no gotta the banana
We no gotta the banana today
We gotta little beans and a big beans
The red beans and the white beans
And all kinds of beans and say…We gotta the old fashioned salami
Mmmm we even gotta the Brooklyn pastrami
(Oh yes,) We no gotta the banana
We no gotta the banana todayBusiness got so good with him
He wrote home to say
“Send Pasquali, Nick and Jim
I need help right away”
When he got them in the store
There was fun you bet
Someone asked for bananas
And then the whole quartet(Oh yes,) We have no bananas
We have no bananas today
(We have peppers, and carrots, and celery, and olives)
But we got no bananas today
(Who asked you for bananas anyway?
Ahh, who asked ya?
I only want a hotdog sandwich
Hotdogs are better than bananas
I always say, ain’t it?)(Oh yes,) We have no bananas
(We have no bananas today)
July 21, 2005 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Counting Chickens
Said urgently, in quick succession.
R6: Mom, don't count your chickens!
R6: Mom, don't count your chickens before they're hatched!
R6: Mom, remember what happened the first time you counted your chickens? Before you knew what it meant?
July 18, 2005 | Comments (2) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Overheard, Mockingbird
R6: A mockingbird, a mockingbird!
T7: What is he mocking?
R6: He's making fun of our house. Oh now, he's run off! I hate that the run off after making fun of our house or our tree.
July 18, 2005 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
My Mountain Sister
July 11, 2005 | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
What I'm. . .
Drinking: Imperial Coconut Iced Tea
Reading: For Your Own Good
Wearing: A sarong, from my Mom
Listening: CD from Hymns for a Kid's Heart
Thinking: Choosing a major, when I return to college
Watching: Google Earth
Playing: Sharks & Minnows with the boys
Cooking: With Hubby's new wok
July 10, 2005 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Finally Saw Francisco
I hadn't had a haircut since, oh, January or so. And then when we knew we'd be returning to the States, I wanted to forgo the easy miscommunication always involved with getting my hair cut in Ukraine and wait until I could see Francisco.
I called not long after we arrived back in the States. Unfortunately, Francisco was getting ready to go visit family in Peru. I had an appointment for the day he returned, but then he had flight trouble and so it was canceled.
The next appointment was delayed because of, well, getting settled in here. I had an appointment last Saturday and it was cancelled because of sickness. My hair was past the shaggy stage, but to the too-long-to-do-anything-with, not-long-enough-to-put-up stage. It was just not right. But I'm very loyal, and though I was REALLY ready for a haircut, I wanted to wait until he was available.
So this morning I got in to see Francisco! Here's a self-photo.
July 08, 2005 | Comments (6) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Tip of the Day
If you happen to have a black snake in your pool, and you want to make sure it's not a water moccasin, I recommend that you NOT do a google search and look at the pictures of the snakes from all the places pest removers find snakes in Florida homes.
I'm going to have nightmares about snakes in bathrooms, behind dressers, in pizza boxes. . .
(Oh, and I think it's just a harmless little ringneck in the pool. I'll let Hubby figure it out for sure and deal with it.)
July 05, 2005 | Comments (8) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Happy Independence Day!
Being our first stateside Fourth in several years, we made a big deal of Independence Day. We had lots of family time--cooking together, swimming together, watching the neighbor's firecrackers. . .
Hubby planned our holiday menu, grilled the steaks and made tiramisu. The boys made berries-and-jello dessert. (Another big treat--American jello and strawberries available whenever we want them!)
We were going to watch Red Dawn with the kiddos--but the dvd was already checked out. We own it in VHS, but don't have a VCR anymore.
In the midst of all this, Hubby found time to blog on Fourth of July traditions and the Left's reaction to this holiday. Sobering reading.
Holiday pics:
July 04, 2005 | Comments (5) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Boys' Hymns
One of the happiest things is hearing my boys hum and sing hymns,
Let goods and kindred go,
This mortal life also;
The body they may kill:
God's truth abideth still --
His kingdom is forever.
July 03, 2005 | Comments (1) | TrackBack (0) | Permalink
Happy Birthday, J9!
Jun