busy bags

Tags

activities, busy bags, homeschool, preschool

I have discovered busy bags.  They are life savers.  Normally while I’m schooling the older kids, I throw paper, crayons, scissors, pens, glue stick and such at the younger kids in hopes that they’ll be entertained enough to let me talk with the students.

The Big Bang Theory of paper crafting doesn’t work.  It seems as in real life, even if you have all the supplies, you still need an intelligent plan.

So, I looked for an intelligent plan.

I found one.  Busy bags.  You can find a ba-gillion of them online.  Here are my favorite sites are Montessori For Everyone and Money Saving Mom.

My favorite is the first.  It has a huge selection, and many are for older kids as well.

I made an obscene amount of these over the last few days.  You just print out the activities, put it in a bag, and wait for the kids to beg you for them.  It’s that easy.  I now see pom poms and colored paper clips in my future.  I made about 20 bags using only what I had on hand.

They work.  They’re cute. They’re cheap. They’re easy to clean up.  They’re educational.  They’re here to stay.

Busy bags…if you don’t have some, get some.

ladies in laying

Tags

blue eggs, chicken raising, chickens, colors, eggs, laying, plenty of sunshine

Have I mentioned yet how I love Southwest winters?  Hmmm…I do believe I have.  There is plenty of sunshine here.  The last two weeks have been in the beautiful 60s ans 70s.  Guess who else love all this sunshine?  My ladies.

All the girls are layin’ again.  I can’t wait until they’re all laying everyday.  Today 6/10 earned their keep.  The blue eggs are back.  I simply love the colors.  Don’t you?  It kinda make getting up in the morning and making breakfast happier.  At least that’s what I’m telling myself.

 

canary

Introducing Canary, a knitting pattern for age 4-adult small.  This pattern is available in my shop.

teaching myself new tricks

Tags

algebra, knitting, knitting patterns, writing patterns

Never did I foresee that the subject I so adamantly tried to avoid all my life is grafting itself into everything I love to do leisurely.  Mathematics.  What I have also deemed as mundane and exhausting has been creeping it’s ugly little head into my craft time.

At first it started with simple measuring and adding while I sewed.  Then, it escalated into pre-algebra while making a skirt.  Before I knew it I was finding products of 4 in knitting.  Now, I’m willingly submitting myself to percentages, fractions, adding/subtracting and multiplying/dividing in efforts to master pattern writing.

It seems you and I can tell our kids there is a purpose for all the madness.  Even if is takes being out of high school for 11.5 years before I realize it, I can use algebra in life.  Mathematics is important, useful, productive, and- whether I like it or not- the only way I can proceed in my desire to become a knitting pattern writer.

Now that I think of it, Math is the base of everything scientific, creative, and practical.  That’s a lot of stuff.

*sigh*

If feels good to admit that.  I’ve denied it for far too long.

gluten free blueberry pecan muffins

Tags

blueberry muffins, gluten-free, muffins

The ending result of gluten-free baking isn’t always as satisfying as I expect.  These muffins were not like that.  So, I felt I must share them with you.  They were soft, spongy, moist, and de-lish.  I found a recipe for GF muffins at Gluten Freely Frugal.  Instead of using a GF flour mix, I decided to go a more frugal route.  Here’s my adaptation to the recipe.

 

½ C organic sugar

4 T butter, softened

4 eggs

1 C milk

½ t vanilla

1-1/2 C  brown rice flour

½ C oat flour (this is great for a moist spongy texture)

½ t sea salt

1 t xanthan gum

4 t baking powder

1-1/2 C blueberries

½ C pecan pieces

1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2.  Beat together sugar, butter, and eggs.   Add milk and vanilla.  In separate bowl mix all dry ingredients well.  Add the dry ingredients to the wet mix.  Stir in nuts.  Fold in berries.
3.  Place mix in greased muffin pans.  Bake for 20 minutes, turning once.
4. Gobble them up before everyone else eats them.

 

Gluten free is still delicious!

 

systematize your laundry: aka, how to stay sane while washing for 7

Tags

clean clothes, doing laundry, laundry room, laundry rooms

Do you love doing laundry?  Does the constant repetition of folding relax your mind?  Do you pride yourself on your pressing and stain-removing skills? Awesome! Do you work for free?  I have a never-ending, never caught up, stain-filled, wrinkly mess that would love a helping hand.

Well, at least I did.  I finally decided it was time to take my most overwhelming chore and systematize to make run smoother.  I wash roughly: 49 outfits, 18 PJs, sheets from 5 beds, towels, napkins, 40 diapers and 14 covers each week.  Guess what?  I got fed up with scenes like this one…

Look familiar?  This is a corner of my bedroom filled with baskets of clean clothes.  They got thrown in there because we had company coming over.  They stayed there for days.  Since everyone dug around to find something clean to wear, and to find matches for socks…it looks like I never even folded it to begin with!

Laundry.  You can’t live with it, you can’t live without it.  Me and laundry have a love/hate relationship. I love when I have clean clothes in all the drawers.  I hate putting it there.  I love when laundry gets done in one day.  I hate stacking it in my room because the dinner guests arrived. Love/Hate.

I figured that there had to be a way to do laundry without it in our living spaces.  I did a little searching around to see what other people with large families do. Here’s what I found out.

1.  Everyone likes to show off their beautiful laundry rooms, but few show how they get it to stay that way.

2.  I have a very dreary and unattractive laundry room.

I did glean my main idea from another mom of five over at Clover Lane. The rest of the system is from looking at lots of pictures of beautiful laundry rooms that I don’t have. Some is even my own ideas. So, here’s my system:

1.  I used 4 rectangular baskets I already had for sorting baskets.  I labeled them with all the colors that go in each, and tied coordinating yarn around them.

2.  I labeled 2 more rectangle baskets “Linens” and one “Dad and Mom”.  Then I purchased 5 small round (shape doesn’t matter) baskets and put each child’s name on it.  They cost $2 each.  I call these the destination baskets.

3.  I then nailed yarn above my folding table and attached clothes pins.  (Is there anything that can’t be solved by yarn and clothes pins?)  This is for the missing sock station.  When I fold a load I match up socks in the load, look for the other on the wall, clip on the sock if I can’t find a match.

This looks pretty bad.  It’s a good sign that I need to toss socks that have been there for over a month…I’m never going to find the match am I?

4.  Since I already had a single line running from wall to wall in the garage, I put it to use.  The section above the folding table holds empty hangers.  Further down I placed 7 clothes pins with every persons name.  Clean shirts go here.  When I’m really on top of it, I pull out all the shirts/dresses/jackets and hang them there to dry straight out of the washer.  Less to hang outside or put in the dryer.

If you happen to have a pole instead of a line check out this smart way to divide your sections.  You can also use these in the closets to divide seasons, sizes, ect.

HOW IT WORKS:

On Sundays and Mondays I usually do laundry.

Sunday afternoon the dirty clothes from the bedrooms get dumped in the laundry room.  The baskets go straight back tot the rooms.  Then the kids and I sort.  This is why I tied colored yarn and wrote the colors on the baskets.  Even Josie who is 3 can help.

When the clothes are dry, I put the load on the table and fold– tossing each persons item in their basket.  I hang up everyone’s shirts– even the baby’s onesies.  Pajamas, Pants, socks, underwear, and under shirts get folded.

I explained already how I do socks…it’s a wonderful method.

When the laundry’s finished and the baskets are full, the clothes go straight to the rooms to get put away.  All empty hangers from the closets get placed into the empty basket.  The older kids do their own clothes.  Nick and I work together on ours.  I do the linens.  I put away the younger kids’ or employ Isabel to do it for $0.25.

Empty baskets go straight back to the laundry room stacked together, and wait for the next week.

That’s right.  I only “do” laundry once a week.  I don’t like doing laundry everyday.  If you don’t mind that’s great.  You can still have the putting away part happen once a week.  Sheets are washed on a different day than the main loads.  Diapers are washed every 3 days.  So, I guess I do laundry more than once a week, but not the clothes.

I hope you enjoyed a peek at the laundry.  It’s pretty exciting for me to not feel like curling up in the fetal position every time I see clothes.  I no longer feel like the laundry monster is going to eat me.  Also exciting, is actually being caught up on laundry.  Oooo…another exciting bit is that you can be caught up too.

This system took only a couple hours to set up and start.  I spent $12 on baskets and more hangers.  That’s it.

Happy folding!

{this moment}

soap nuts even cheaper

Tags

frugal, frugality, laundry, soap nuts

The other day I was searching for other ways to use soap nuts.  We have been using them for our laundry for some time now, but I knew they could be used in other ways as well.  I came across a genius idea.  Which is still laundry-related :)  I’ll explore other uses soon enough.

Check out this original post on how to make a liquid soap using soap nuts.

I followed the laundry soap directions…mostly.

I boiled 12 nuts instead of 8.  After I boiled the 8 nuts in the 8 cups.  I then boiled the same nuts in 4 more cups. By doing this I made 12 soap nuts into 12 cups of liquid soap.  I use 2 tablespoons per load.

The original directions for using soap nuts in laundry is to put 8 nuts in a bag to toss into the laundry.  I usuallly reuse the bag 5 or so times.

Making the liquid has a two-fold benefit.

1.  12 cups will last at least a month but I’m thinking two (instead of 5-7 loads)  which makes this super cheap laundry soap even cheaper!

2.  The liquid soap provides an equally strong amount of washing quality vs. each load having less and less soap in it.

So there it is.  The absolutely least expensive laundry detergent ever.  The fact that it’s completely organic makes soap nuts a perfect fit for this frugal family.

meet luke

Tags

cockapoo, dog, puppy

We finally have a puppy in our home after weeks of searching and praying for just the right addition to our family.  Meet Luke, a cockapoo (cocker spaniel/poodle) we got from a rescue.

We are so excited to have this sweet and gentle guy to pet and love and play with.  He’s pretty great.

how to become a better knitter

Tags

garter stitch, how to become a better knitter, how to knit, knitting, nap time, pattern writer

Sitting on my couch turning a heel on a sock, had me thinking about how far I’ve come in two and a half years of knitting.  You shall never see a picture of my first three projects because, frankly, they are the ugliest knitting projects on Earth.  A hat, a scarf, and a couple of holey wash clothes were my first attempts at the wonderful world of knitting.  This is not important, really.  What’s important is that instead of people saying “Did you make that?”  They now say, “I can’t believe you made that!”

The difference is huge.  If only that could happen with my sewing.  I would love to sew anything that looked so professional that no one could tell I made it.  That’s a whole other topic.  Though I know the mistakes exist in most my projects, and though I know I have a ways to go, I am pleased that I am to the point of socks.  This has been the scariest of all projects to me.  And here I am gearing up to turn a heel!  (Let us not even remember to pair I already attempted and frogged).  I have determination.

People often ask when I find time to knit “with all those kids” around.  Easy.  While watching TV with Nick in the evening.  While taking a time-out from overwhelming responsibility (nap time), and while Nick takes the driver’s seat–literally.  It’s true.  That really the only times I ever knit.  Okay, it comes with me to the Dr’s office, and to the in-laws’ for dinner and such, but honestly not much gets done that way.

People say I’m amazing.  That one always makes me laugh inside.  I would not consider myself an “amazing” knitting.  I classify myself as advanced beginner.  Amazing to me are intricate  lace and colorwork– not a garter stitch scarf.  Amazing to me is being a consistently great and innovated pattern writer.  I am not amazing.

People ask me where I learned to knit.  The answer is YouTube videos.

People say “I tried to knit but I couldn’t figure it out.”  Hey, me too.  It took me weeks to figure it out.  I was just very determined.  I also found great resources via the internet.  As they say “practice makes perfect”  so has my my journey with needles been.  I knit nearly everyday.  Certainly everyday if I am excited for the results or very close to the end of a project.

People say I’m too young to knit.  I say most of the great knitter and pattern writers– and yarn shop owners for that matter– aren’t grandmas.  Knitting is hip now.  Even celebrities do it– not that I care much what  celebrities do.  I’m just sayin’.

Since I don’t have any actual people to learn from here…at least not that I know of, I have learned to take bay steps.  I started with the most basic projects using only garter stitch.  Each project following I look up the abbreviation and watch videos until I feel comfortable proceeding with the needles and yarn.  I have yet to come across instructions I couldn’t find a video tutorial for.

If you want to learn to knit, or if you want to get better…then do it.  Use the free and awesome tools that are out there.  Join a knitting circle.  Become a better knitting by being determined.  Become a better knitter by knitting.  Whether it’s good, bad or ugly– you can’t be a great knitter if you don’t pick up those needles and cast on that yarn.

That’s how to become a better knitter.

Maranara Sauce…

Tags

lasagna, maranara sauce, pizza sauce, spaghetti sauce

I like to cook and especially from scratch.  It’s hard for me to believe that in almost eight years of marriage, eight I have never gotten my mom’s spaghetti sauce recipe.  Oh, she makes the best spaghetti sauce, lasagne, pizza…ever!  Why haven’t I done this?  Why?  Last week it was time.  I am sharing with you our Italian/Cecilian family recipe.  Consider it a late Christmas gift from my kitchen to yours. 

You’ll need:

4 lg cans of tomato sauce

1 lg can of tomato puree

3 itty bitty cans of tomato paste

2 16oz pkgs of fresh mushrooms–sliced (pre sliced is what I used)~or~ 4 sm cans

2 heaping tbs of each: basil, oregano, parsley

1 heaping tbs onion powder

1 heaping tbs of garlic powder ( I used 2 of fresh minced)

4 tsp fresh cracked black pepper (and more to taste)

1 tsp sugar (to make the acid rise)

3 tsp salt (and more to taste)

2 pkgs of Italian sausage links, browned and cut in half.

Time to get cracking…

Get a gi-normous pot out (a little Elf for you all), you need it to hold LOTS…12 quarts would be enough.

1.  Pour all your tomato can in.

2.  Take one of the lg can and fill it with water 2.5 times, adding it to your pot.

3.  Add all spices and the sugar

4.  Stir…guess you could have figured that out :)

5.  Add browned sausage and mushrooms. 

6.  Bring to a boil on LOW, not med, LOW heat.  If you get in a hurry for it to boil it will burn on the bottom.  Be patient.  It’s worth waiting be believe me.

7.  Stir often to make sure the spices are not going to burn at the bottom of the pan.

8.  Once it starts boiling , turn down to simmer…and you’ll notice something crazy happening.  A science experiment of sorts.  Don’t panic.  Just follow these instuctions carefully…this is important.  You’ll need to skim the scum.  You heard me.  Scum, or the acid that is going to be foaming at the top of the pot.  I keep one of the cans and fill it up with this goo.  Here’s what it looks like…pond scum. 

You’ll need to continue skimming the scum every 15 -20 minutes until it goes away…which takes a few hours at least (stop the jaw dropping it’s not a big deal).  Everytime you go potty, make a snack, chase a kid, have a commercial break ect…just swing by the kitchen a skim away.

9.  Simmer and skim for 8 hours, or until the sauce has thickened.

10.  Make some spaghetti, pizza, or lasagne with this red gold.  It freezes very well, so feel free to store whatever you don’t use.

*  Do you see how much I love you all?  I just gave you the best recipe for sauce. 

Slow and steady wins the race~ Aesop’s Fairy tales: The Tortoise and the Hare.

He was right :)

A week of sewing: dress and skirts

Tags

new look, pattern, sewing, skirt, tutorial

Here’s what’s been running through the old Viking.

A Sunday dress for my oh, so grown up Isabel.  The pattern is New Look #6309 view B.  I omitted the collar and added a ribbon tie.

Matching 3 tier skirts for Isabel and Liv.  Tutorial found here.  I thought this was quite easy.  If you have experience with making ruffles (gathering) and casing for the elastic band, you will have no problem.  If not check out this tutorial for gathering and this for casing.  I thought the intructions on the 3 tier tutorial would be unclear for a first-timer.  I hope you aren’t discouraged.  It really is a simple sew.

That’s all that I completed this week.  Hopfully next week I’ll be able to share some baby sewing fun.

rain and cold

When it comes to bad weather, nothing says comfort like a big glass of hot cocoa.  For the yummiest (is that a real word?) cocoa ever…click here. 

Can I just say that I love his show.  It’s the only thing a really miss about cable.  I can’t get enough of the science nerd approach to cooking.  Maybe because I am one myself.  I have made several things from his recipe pool, and it is all the best I’ve ever had.

I made 1.5 batches.  Because it is made with dry milk, it’s delectably creamy and frothy.  I added 1/8 tsp of cayenne.  The cayenne is nothing to fear.  It doesn’t make it spicy.  It gives a lovely depth of warm to the drink…don’t skip this, really.  So good.  So comforting.

wind, rain, bread

In our area there is some yucky weather going on.  Something about being trapped inside made me motivated for bread making.  Quite by accident I checked out this book from the library about 1.5 years ago.  I raved about it so much to my husband, that he surprised me with a gift.  I actually still had Local Breads checked out when the package came.  I quickly returned it.  I found I was so in love with the techniques and stories of artisan bread makers, that I dreamed of owning a bakery myself.  The time, care, and passion put into each loaf makes artisan bread a true work of art.  I guess the name fits well.

When Josie was born, life changed.  Bread making (aside from my bread machine bread) was not happening.  I haven’t so much as looked at the book until yesterday.  Constant wind, rain, and the heater going out (now fixed…thank goodness) reminded me how much I love making bread by hand. 

I made up two different starters yesterday.  In about 7-10 days I’ll be able to bake my first loaf of bread.  To some the process may sound daunting.  To me it is exciting.  I love the result of slow and steady, quiet work.  It truly makes me focus on bringing more calmness and patience into the home.  I feel more tender and loving when the pace of the household gets turned down.  I feel like I am listening more to the loving voice of God when I’m not rushing around and barking out commands to my children.  More motherly.  More laid back.  Don’t get me wrong, I fail.  However; when it’s time to knead bread, all hands can help and we are doing something great together.  Steady.  Slowly.

Updates on the levains will be posted, along with the end result.  Beautiful, perfectly crisp on the outside, warm and soft on the inside bread will be filling our tummies soon enough.

inside…

Tags

games, kids inside, knitting

We’re staying occupied inside this week.  Too much mud, wind, and rain for outside play.  Have a great weekend.  Monday I’ll share this week’s sewing projects.

a week of sewing: baby pants

Tags

baby pants, embroidery, sewmamasew, tutorial

We are all so excited over here have a new baby.  Because this baby is a boy, we are in need of some clothes too.  Once I saw this tutorial and this variation for cloth diapered babies, I went shopping…in the closet.  I used some of Nick’s old work shirts, one of my old shirts, and some thrifted pillow cases.  A little detail to add some interest, and now they’re ready to snuggle a little bundle.

a need to knead

Tags

artisan bread, bread making, daniel leader, local breads

Last week I started the levains for some serious bread making.  Local Breads is such a great book.  I also realized there was an errata for some of the recipes.  Hopefully, I’ll be alright for the ones I didn’t catch in time. 

Baking my way through this book has made me realize a few things about bakers.  First, they go through plenty of plastic wrap and parchment paper.  Second, artisan bread makers are very patient and precise.  And lastly, they have found an excellent and cheap stress reliever. 

I have in the past avoided, at all costs, hand kneading bread.  Even when I have used this book in the past, I used my stand mixer and dough hook.  This time I’ve decided I’m making every recipe in this book by hand.  I really love it.  It is very calming, a nice arm workout, the kids are loving that they can help, and I really enjoy feeling the dough change.  Sticky, smooth, elastic changes.  Every loaf is made and shaped with care and love.  Patience and perfection.  I could eat nothing but these breads everyday.

 

 

Saltless Tuscan Bread

a week of sewing: with Weekend Sewing

Last week I checked out Heather Ross’s Weekend Sewing from the library.  I really enjoying sewing from books and tutorials vs. patterns.  I think it’s much easier to understand.  Here’s what was accomplished:

The Sunday-Dinner Hostess Apron, for a special someone.  I really want one too.  Simple.  Easy.  Cute.  The fabric is from Jo~ann’s.

Picture by Isabel (please excuse the out-of-focus look), blurring hand trying to catch a spoon of oatmeal from hitting the apron, with no luck.  Time to wash and press…again :)

Jane’s Head Scarf, to cover up my many bad hair days.  This was made from a fat quarter given to me by a friend.  I like the bandana style flowers.  I have hopes of whipping up a couple more of these.

What are you sewing or planning to sew soon?

let me tell ya…

Our house seems to always be changing pace.  This week is a week of simplicity.  Not a whole lot is going on here.  I find myself being forced to slow down a bit.   I guess I’ll enjoy it while it lasts. 

Knitting is slow.  My needles broke on the blanket I was working on for new baby boy.  I cast on a scarf for a dear relative instead.  Normally I would be done with it, but I’m taking my merry little time.

Sewing has been slow as well.  Some hitches (we’ll call them) in projects has made me just cuddle up on the couch in a blanket and read at night, instead of taking advantage of the sleeping babes.  But, that’s okay.  Everyone needs a break and a fresh perspective. 

So, that’s what’s going on with me.  How about you?  How are you relaxing this week?

soggy ground

Tags

rain, weather, wet

Here is SE Arizona it’s been raining and raining and raining.  It’s a good thing I love the rain.  Just can’t ever tire of the smell and sound…ever.  There’s really only one thing wrong with rain as far as I can tell.  Mud.  Yes, mud.  Who likes mud anyways?  I guess some do.  Pigs, worms, and unfortunately my kids.

I never let them go out and play until the mud is good and dry.  I have little control over some of the mud though.  Walking to the car little feet stray from the brick path.  Kids.  They just love getting messy.  Messes are so much fun.  Don’t they know it’s better to stay clean than to get clean?  Oh well, they are kids and that’s what they’re supposed to do.

 

Picture Post

 

(2) week(s) of sewing: this and that

Tags

baby pants from shirts, heather ross, sewing, summer dress, weekend sewing

One skirt for me, and another Dinner-Hostess Apron from Weekend Sewing, a dress for Josie, pants for new babe, and a onesie turned shirt for Josie. 

What a blessing it is to have such wonderful ideas from creative people at the touch of a button.  I am constantly amazed at the things that are thought up.  This is a great advantage to me since I tend to get stuck in the routine of the same projects and ideas. 

What have you seen on the net lately?  Any good sewing ideas?

10,227 days of life

Tags

birthday, blessings, flowers, good husband, life, massage, special day, surprise

That’s how many days I’ve been given thus far.  Today is my 28th birthday.  My truly wonderful husband set up a massage session for me as a surprise on Monday.  He said it was for my birthday and Valentine’s day.  What a blessing. 

I’ll admit it was a new and at times awkward experience.  I kept asking what she meant by “get ready” but it took a few more questions before I understood what she meant.  Have you ever had one?  Well, if not lets just say I was more “exposed” with that women than anyone else…besides Nick.  Yes, there was a blanket, but I knew what was under it.  So, that was Monday. 

Today I didn’t expect anything since my gift came early, but another surprise awaited me.

My guy is so sweet isn’t he?  I love that these mums will be planted and kept forever.  I was told when my new camera arrived in November, that it was a year of presents.  I was more than happy with that, but my guy wasn’t :)  I feel so blessed and loved today.  Really, always.

stirring

Tags

Jesus, love, servant, serve, stirring, work

There’s been a stirring going on in my heart lately.  A stirring to grow, to appreciate more, and to enjoy with less seriousness this life I’ve been given.  I finally finish the book On Being a Servant of God and now I’m ready.  We’ll face so many unknowns in the coming years, but this I know.  Nothing should bring me more joy than serving Jesus.

This certainly starts in my home.  I’ve mentioned before that I firmly believe that just because I’m home doesn’t mean I’m not working.  I am.  Not just taking care of kids, but being a frugal, hard worker.  My conduct here is to be just as it would with an employer.  I’ve lacked.

First it was being tired (pregnancy), then I was having back pain, then I was suffering from migraines, and before I knew it I just was being lazy.  One of the last thing I read in the above book was, “If you pamper yourself every time you don’t feel good, you’ll end up doing less and less and eventually will do nothing.”  Ouch.

“When He was dying on the cross, our Lord was never more in the will of God; yet His body certainly didn’t feel good.  I think of that when my arthritis bothers me.  What’s arthritis compared to nails being driven through your hands and feet?”  Double ouch.

It’s time for me to stop having pregnancy, headaches, and gallbladder attacks stop me from being joyful in ministry.  If it’s going to happen anyways, I might as well be useful and loving to my family through it.  Jesus wasn’t focused on Himself while He was dying, He focused on the will of the Father.  His calling.

Have a great weekend.  Happy Valentines Day.  May His true love change you forever.

warm heads

Tags

hats, knit hats, knitting, ravelry, stelle pixie hat

This is the Stella Pixie Hat in two variations.  One for the new baby in size 3-12 months.  Oh, by the way we are naming him Desmond Nicholas.

Josie was not so excited about modeling it.  I suppose she knew it was in boy colors. 

Isabel got one too.  Same pattern, except I used worsted weight yarn instead of sock yarn.  I followed the 12-24 months instructions.

All details are found on my Ravelry page.

upon request

Tags

caron simply soft, garter stich hat, knit hat, knitting, ravelry

Little Olivia, in all her fashion expertise, made a request.  After seeing Isabel and Desmond’s hats she put her order in.  Yarn and pattern was carefully selected…by her.  She’s almost three, but I’m sure that in a couple of years she’ll taking care of me.  Oh, yes.  She’s that “mommy” type.  Always doing things I do.  Yesterday she painted her toenails (toes and feet and all) just as she did the day before.  Umm, I should count this joy too I suppose.

She’s a fashion Guru and it shows.  I think she picked quite well.  It suits her personality perfectly.

Here it is.  The Garter Stitch Hat.  As always, you can see detail on my Ravelry page.

the big purge

Yesterday I began what I’ve been wanting to do for a couple of weeks.  Simplify.  Get rid of, throw away, and sell.  Seriously, do the girls need seven pairs of dress up shoes?  Sheesh!  I’m not quite sure how it happens.  Nick and I rarely buy them anything.  I guess with four birthdays and Christmas it’s bound to add up. 

I started with the kids’ rooms and bathroom.  I plan on going through the house room by room.  I am happy to announce we are free of blinking, flashing, noisy toys…except the instruments.  Those must stay.  I love it.  Clean up is such a quick and easy job for them now.  We are down a big box, a toy box full, and a toy bucket of, stuff. 

I threw out two big trash bags, and the rest is for a yard sale.  I am so tempted to just dump it off at a thrift store, but honestly that would be the easy way out.  Yes, a yard sale is more work, but it’s just another way I can help contribute to the finances.  What ever’s left can go to the thrift shop :) 

I can’t be sure if this is early nesting, or if it’s just the thought that we might move which has triggered such an undertaking.  Either way it’s a good thing.  We have an abundance of so much around here.  It really has me thinking about needs and wants.  It seems it’s so easy to get off track.  God always provides what we need, but isn’t it easy to think you need more than you do?  God has been stirring up my heart so much lately.  I’m never sure what’s ahead, but I know he’ll be there with everything under control.

I have no sewing to share because I didn’t do any :)  I’ve been busy making bows to sell.  I hope you have a great Tuesday everyone.

springing up

Tags

outdoors, Photography, spring

Spring is just around the corner…and not a moment too soon as far as I’m concerned.  We have enjoyed a very mild winter, but I’m ready to work in the yard with warm sun on my back. 

Spring is popping up and showing its face around the yard.  God is so good.  Spring is just another ways He shows that.  I love how everything looks dead one week and the next life is thriving.

 

horsin’ around

Tags

chickens, family fun, farm, hens, horses

I forgot how much I loved the smell of horses until yesterday.  A couple of weeks ago we finished up our lesson about horses, so we decided to visit some.  The kids had a blast.  They were at first quite timid about the size and rules that go along with them.  We also saw some guinea hens and chickens.  Oh, and garden carts are fun too.

 

the trouble with Olivia

If there’s one word that can sum up Olivia it’s…turd.  Yes, sorry if that word doesn’t sit well with you…it’s just true.  She is so cute, so mischievous, so stealth, so manipulative (with her batting brown eyes), so much a turd.

I thought she was playing outside.  I thought she was coming in to go potty.  I thought she was moving the chair to get a drink.  I thought wrong.  I thought so very, very wrong.

I love her.  I adore her.  I can’t believe she did it.  I’m not surprised she did it.  I’m just surprised she grabbed the wrong ones.  I’m so glad she grabbed the wrong ones.  Oh, child of mine.  Oh dear child.  Oh, it was funny.  It was so terrifying.  It was.  It was, so funny and terrifying.  This is the trouble with Olivia.

Oh My.  I heard a car door.  I saw the chair on the way out.  But, I didn’t think what I found in the driver’s seat was possible.  Or what was in the ignition.  Praise God his angels protect…and his love keeps my head on straight.  Oh, dear child.  Pray my friend pray.  She’s only two…

prayers for my Josie

Tags

blessing, dr. rimoin, dwarfism, metatropic dysplasia, miracle, prayers

Today I sent off a disc of x-rays to our dwarfism specialist Dr. Rimoin.  I hope within a week his office will call with good news.  We are waiting to see if she’ll need a spinal fusion.  Also, we are waiting for news on whether our insurance will cover our visits to Dr. Rimoin or not.  So far they have denied us twice.  This request is being done by Cedars-Sinai genetics department.  If they deny us this time, than we’re on our own with the bills.

Please be praying friends.  Just watching her get these x-rays just about broke my heart.  She was just so scared on that table with two people she didn’t know holding her neck down, then holding it up as far as it could go.  The feeling of not being able to even hold her hand or have her see me was just aweful.  Normally, I’m right there with her.  This time I had to stay behind the wall because of the pregnancy.  Gosh.  What a feeling.  I didn’t want to endanger little Desmond inside me, but seeing my tiny Josie so scared was terrible to endure.

Long story short, I don’t want to see her go through a spinal fusion.  If this were to happen she’d be in a halo for at least a few months after.  I know God will see us though whatever comes our way.  I am thankful, so thankful for how well she is doing so far.  I really never thought she’d be walking now, but she is.  I am so blessed to have this little girl showing me how amazing my God is everyday.

It is so easy to forget the blessings and miracles that happen in our daily lives.  Josie never lets me forget.  Every time she gets into trouble, I’m thankful she’s able to get around.  When she throws fits, I’m thankful she has such a determined personality.  When she says please and thank you, I am so excited that she is developing into a little girl.  A girl that, though quite small, has the ability to do big things in life.  She’s already doing big things in our family.  She’s my tangible, kissable, silly, sweet and oh so cute miracle.

picture post

Tags

Photography, picture

three

Tags

art birthday, colorful cake, kid party, painting, party theme, rainbow cake

Guess who turned three?  All she wanted was balloons and gum for her party.  Wish granted.

We had so much fun with the ART party theme.

I used a rainbow cake recipe found here. (I must warn you I don’t appreciate her vulgarity, and I did debate whether to link to her site.  In the end, decided you are all grown-ups but I’ll give you a disclaimer) Super easy and very colorful.

All the kids were asked to bring a shirt to paint in.  In all honesty, I am quite shocked about how well all the kids did.  No big messes.  Just fun creative painting.

And when the painting was done…off went the table covers to reveal a coloring canvas for the rest of the party.

anniversary

I don’t have to tell you how much I love y husband, but I will anyways.  He’s great and without him I would be a wreck.  Really, I would.  He keeps my regimented and legalistic side under control.  Mostly by telling me to lighten up and being truly the opposite of legalistic.  Isn’t it funny how God put polar opposites together and it’s a perfect match?  I’ll spare you the Paula Abdul song splice…oh now it’s in your head and I didn’t even say anything.  It’s only fair.  I can’t get it out of my head either :)

Eight years of marriage and happier now more than ever.  With 4.5 kids in between that’s saying a lot.  I’ll give the credit where it’s due.  Jesus.  Plain and simple.

I received these friday…

…and we went to a gourmet restaurant called Cafe Roka.  I think I want to marry Cafe Roka too.  So, so, so, SO yummy.  Delicious, scrumptcious, wonderful, oh my gracious sakes.  EHHH!  I tell,  you it was awesome!

prosciutto wrapped artichoke with cilantro sauce… oh dear Lord it was incredible!

Lemon sorbet to cleanse the palette (forgot to shoot the salad..it was super great too).

My meal.  Chicken and pistachio wrapped in a crepe.  Topped with amazing sauces and veggies…can I go there right now?!

Nick’s meal.  something about salmon sauce and cod and raviolis…does it matter that I don’t remember?  No.  It was fantabulously delectable.  Yes, I ate some.

Nick’s desert.  A crepe stuffed with warm Nutella.  Nutella what?  Yep.  Heavenly.

My desert.  cheesecake topped with hazelnut toffee.  I’ll be honest.  I didn’t want to share, but I knew I wouldn’t get any of that Nutella love if I didn’t.  As you can tell I get pretty selfish when it comes to food.  And yes, I actually take pictures of the food in the restaurant.  Nick called me a “food critic” and the “food popperatzzi”.  That’s okay.  I don’t care what people think, and Nick’s learning to ignore my craziness.

I would love going broke by eating here every night.  Seriously.  I’ll do it.

from my angle

park fun

remembering

I have spent some nights recently remembering when things were easier.  Cleaner.  And for goodness sake quieter.  Yes, laundry was only five loads a week.  It was promptly hung and folded as it came out of the dryer.  Closets were not only organized by type (jackets, dresses, short-sleeved, long-sleeved) but also by color.  The house was immaculate…vacuumed almost daily when the babies were crawling on the floor.  Dishes were always done before bed…sometimes twice a day.  Dusting, scrubbing showers, and washing floors all had a day of the week assigned to them.  Every drawer in the house was organized.  Everything had a place.  Everything was in its place.

What happened?  Child number three came along.  Things just got a little more relaxed, but things were still very clean.  No longer was organizing clothing by color important.  After baby 4 came…that’s when the real change came.  I don’t know that I’ve ever fully recuperated from those changes.  Ten loads of laundry a week plus linens seems so crazy to me still.

So the other day while I was reflecting on yesteryear, God spoke to me.  I was told I didn’t have two kids anymore.  I knew this already, but it dawned on me that I was trying to live like I did.  Why put all that pressure on myself?  I was grieving over a time in my life that could never possibly happen again.  My house will never be that clean again.  And to tell you the truth, I’m not sure I want it to be.  I realized I was trying to be like other people who have two kids.  Two is easy.  I have dreamed of two again.  I just couldn’t give any of those stinkers back :)  I love our big family, truly I do.  Sometimes when everyone crying, I dream of two.  I am only human.

Folding laundry is one thing, but color coding clothes is another.  As I look back I realize that my perfect house in perfect order was an idol in my life.  I got a little prideful about it honestly.  In my mind my house needed to always be so clean that if someone dropped by unexpectedly, I wouldn’t feel the need to lift a hurried finger to clean anything.  I know I was borderline psycho about.  Really.

So, today I have an encouragement for all of you out there who are mourning the loss of your perfect house.  Make your house a home. One you actually live in.  One that guests feel like they can relax in without you scurrying around and brushing all the crumbs they made off the table.  Having a clean house is fine.  Having a house that can never get dirty is not.  Putting immense pressure on yourself to maintain a sterile and orderly home is not what your focus should be.  When you have little ones to tend to, they are the most important focus of your day.  When your husband gets home, spend some time with him instead of worrying about getting your list of tasks done.  That’s what I’m trying to focus on now.  Time management and enjoying the moments that I missed while I was alphabetizing the spices.

homeschool on my mind

Since I just finished ordering all of our curriculum for next year, all I can think about is getting this year’s stuff done so we can crack open the lovely fresh books on the way.  I can’t wait to share photos of the yummy new sets of learning materials as they come in.  You may get sick of this, but you’ll just have to take a Tums and bare it.  I’m far too excited to keep quiet :)

I can’t tell you how relieved I am to be venturing on my own with our structure and materials.  What a blessing to have such great resources available.  1st and 2nd grade…here we come.

watercolor

In efforts to make things a bit more colorful and excited around here, the kids and I have been dabbling into some painting.  I often forget how much they like it, and how long it entertains them.  I think it’s time to get some notebooks and take to the outdoors for some nature journaling.  I wish that when I was younger I would have had that opportunity.  Maybe then you would be able to tell my paintings from that of a child.  Have a fun-filled weekend :)

stripe the squares, baby!

Tags

baby blanket, knit blanket, knitted blanket, knitting, squares blanket, stripe the squares baby

I have finally finished new little babe’s blanket.  Here it is.   I love knitting.  I really really do.  So relaxing, yet still productive.   I hope you enjoy this pattern and good luck to you.

Abbreviations:

K= knit

P= purl

pm= place marker

sm= slip marker

R= row

CO= cast on

Materials:

3 colors of worsted yarn, 2 balls each

Size 10.5 round needles ( I used 26 inch)

The Pattern:

With main color:
CO 138. K 8 rows.

With color 2: (do same for each color every 14 rows)
R1-
K14,pm, P10, pm, K10, pm, P10, pm, K10, P10, pm K10, pm, P10,pm, K10, pm, P10, pm, K10, pm, P10, pm, K14.

R2- Knit all sts
continue with R1 and R2, slipping markers, for a total of 14 rows.

R 15- change to color 3.
K4, P10, sm, K10, sm, P10, sm, K10, sm, P10, sm, K10, sm, P10, sm, K10, sm, P10, sm, K10, sm,P10, sm, K10, sm, P10, K4.

R16 Knit all sts

continue with R15 and R16, slipping markers for 14 rows, and alternating colors every 14 rows.

Repeat pattern (r1/r2 and r15/r16), alternating colors. Knit until desired length.

Finishing:
K 8 rows with Main color, Cast off, weavin in all loose ends.

Swaddle a sweet babe.

yarn addiction

Tags

knit doll, knitting, wool, yarn

I have a yarn addiction.  I can’t control.  I don’t want to.  I just want to live at this store among this yummy wool.  Maybe it’s a pregnancy craving.  Maybe it will only get stronger as the years go on.  Whatever the case, I’m in love.

This is my life.  Knitting is all I want to do right now.  I have a very special, and I dare say ambitious, project I started yesterday for Isabel’s birthday in June.  You can expect to see body parts of it from time to time until completion.

Here’s the top of the head…

All this knitting forces me to sit, which is hard to do when we are moving soon.  Relax time with results :)

a head

Here’s the head of the doll.

Now for the ears.  I’m going to loose these tiny little things.  I just know it.

resurrection

I am so thankful that my God is alive.  Many worship people and gods that are dead or don’t exsist, but as for me and my house, we live for a living God.  What a blessed time with our church fellowship and family.

“He is risen indeed”

For the record our kids know that we hide the eggs and stuff the stockings and give the money in exchange for the tooth, but they still act just as excited about it as I remember…without the lies and confusing that often comes with keeping such secrets for years at a time.  They are sweet kids who treasure all of life’s fun surprises.

down time

I had some unexpected couch time these last few days.  Doctor’s orders you know.  I have round ligament syndrome.  Common in pregnancy, but new to me.  The link doesn’t quite describe the extent of what happened to me.  I had constant severe pain resulting in an inability the walk for a couple of days.  Quite the sight I assure you.  7 months pregnant hobbling around with a cane with four little ducklings (I mean children) trailing behind.  Anyways, being ordered to sit and not walk around unless necessary (bathroom ect) gave way to this creation.  I made my first wool soaker.  So far I love it and want to trade in Josie’s tattered covers with a few more of these.  As usual, details can be found on my Ravelry page.  I used Cascade 220 wool in lime.  Loving the color!  And the yarn really is great too.

life again

Tags

bloom, life, resurrection, spring

We’re enjoying beautiful weather and color.  Spring comes at such a perfect time.  Just when you think it will never be warm and vibrant with life, the flowers bloom and the sun come up.

” I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead , yet shall he live.”  John 11:25

stocking up the art supplies

We received some of our art supplies and got right to testing them out.  I ordered the Rock Crayons (for miss Josie) and the Eco-Friendly colored pencils from Chubby Pencil Studio.  I have to say that these are the smoothest, richest colored pencils I have ever used.  I should also say that all I have used are from art class in school and Wal-mart type brands.  Even still, the quality of these is very good.  I am trying to buy artist grade medians from now on.  I really think it affects the outcome of the end product.

This seems important for us because we are trying to get out of the habit of saying that we are “not good at art”.  The fact is the techniques are a learned process.  We are in the learning stages.  I would hate if having poor tools was a means for low confidence and low quality projects. We are just two-three weeks away from concluding this years curriculum, and I made a promise to some littles to have art and music lessons in the summer.

We will be using Drawing with Children for our art classes.  It is really an impressive book.  I am planning on joining in for some lessons of my own.  I am really very excited about it.  I dare say, the kids are too.  They are eager to work hard and do extra work in order to start.

friends

Tags

blessings, friends, kids, playing

This weekend we had some friends come and stay with us.  Really, they are more than friends.  They are so much like family it’s hard sometimes remember that they aren’t.  They’re the kind of friends that are there in good times and bad.  We love them dearly.  I was beyond blessed to just be with them.

When I first gave my life to the Lord, this couple discipled me, loved me, got me a job, and played vital roles in my growth and walk with Jesus.  I can’t really explain how much they mean to me.  Wonderful friends.  It was so nice to have them around.

Not only did we enjoy some great talks and hearty laughs, they helped us…lots.  They packed boxes, did some handy work, cleaned, bathed kids.  Goodness.  That is a friend.  Our children, all (nine of them), are great friends too.  I love that so much.  It is so exciting just to know that ten years from now when our oldest girls are driving (okay stop thinking such thoughts Jennee), they will still be friends no matter how far apart we live.  The other nice thing is that we adults be will too…praying for our teenagers just as we pray for our littles now.  True friendship is hard to find.  We are blessed that God arranges the deepest, most loving friendships for us.

Here are the brood of children that were squealing and laughing and eating plenty of sugar, and staying up late, and waking so very early…and climbing trees and getting filthy and have a marvelous time doing it all.

Girls are adorable.  Babies are sweet and fun.  Boy are shirtless, dirty savages…I love it.

On the book shelf

Tags

colored pencils, drawing, handmade soap, soap making, watercolor

Maybe they’re on the side table at least.  I am pretty sure that I’m nuts.  I can’t just relax and sit, I must do something.  Here’s what I want to do with kids and by myself.

I have been wanting to make handmade soaps for a while now.  I think my need to have appropriate cleaning supplies and skin care products in my nesting phase of pregnancy is going to make it a reality soon.

Drawing and watercolors will soon take place in the home school room.  I must know what it is to teach them right?  I am very much looking forward to this.  Now, if only I could wriggle my nose and appear in a new and unpacked house…then these dreams would be a reality.

it’s a hard knock life

Tags

biblical principles, lady, life lesson, manipulation

Today Isabel is learning a life lesson.  A very hard life lesson.  Hard for me and for her.

“But let your ’Yes’ be ’Yes,’ and your ’No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.”  Matthew 5:37

It’s a big one really.  Don’t say things you don’t mean.  Don’t say things to be manipulative.  Don’t say things to tickled people’s ears.  You can’t take back the things you say.  It’s all-encompassing of this verse.

Let me break it down for you.  Here’s what happened.  Isabel was disciplined for hitting.  She was told that because she did that she wouldn’t be getting her toes painted as I planned.  With eyes full of tears, and a scowl on her face she said, in a most manipulative tone, “Fine I don’t want to eat dinner or lunch!”

Now, she hasn’t completely mastered manipulating yet, so she didn’t know she should offer something that wouldn’t affect just her.  Still the principle remains.  Shouting out ridiculous things in anger while trying to get your way is manipulative.  Period.

Women, we are masters at this by nature.  Turn on the tears and expect things to happen your way.  Unfortunately for Isabel, I know her number.  So I granted her request.  No dinner, no lunch.  She was told the verse.  I explained what it meant.  I told her if she doesn’t mean something she shouldn’t say it.  I also explained to her that saying things like that to get her way was wrong and manipulative.

Don’t think I’m heartless.  This is not easy for me either.  It’s not easy to withhold food from a child.  She doesn’t know this yet, but I am not taking away snack.  Just the meals.  I don’t want her to starve.  I just want this lesson to remain with her forever.  It is so important in my eyes.  I’m doing my best not to raise a prissy, manipulative, dramatic, weak, girl.  Through the word of God I’m instilling biblical principles.  I want her to be a loving, tender, nurturing lady.  Strong in the Lord.  Unwavering in the truth of God’s word.

It is certainly easier to let it not be such a big deal, but then this opportunity would be missed.  I also realize that she will follow by example.  That’s tough to know, but all the more reason we both should take this lesson for what it is.  Her future husband will thank me…you know…in the future :)  I love this girl so much.  God give us the strength to always see a moment to learn more of you in.

{photo by Nick}

covering up tushies

Tags

cascades 220 wool yarn, cloth diapers, curly purly pattern, wool soaker

I just finished my second wool soaker.  I can’t get enough.  I have used cloth diapers off and on for five years now, and have never used wool soakers.  Why, why, why?  They don’t need to be cleaned as often, they are completely breathable, and they are slim fitting.  They are marvelous!  Well, to be honest it’s because buying them can cost anywhere from $20-$40.  I have a hard time buying plastic ware I’m so cheap, so these were out of the question.  That is, until I found a FREE pattern for the Curly Purly Soaker.  Now I’m hooked and want nothing but more of these.

I am using Cascade 220 wool yarn ($7.00/skin).  I made almost two soakers (small and medium) with one skin, and have cast on the leftovers of the second skin for a newborn size.  I’m aiming to knit up three newborn sizes before Desmond’s arrival.  We’ll see what happens between moving and birth.  A girl’s got to have goals though.  Otherwise, she may find herself watching the news and eating M&M’s for hours at a time.  Got to keep those hands distracted.

the graduate

Tags

graduation, kindergarten

Mr. Andre has graduated kindergarten.  He is ever so proud of himself, as am I.  I’m proud of him and me.  Every homeschooling mom can relate to that.  It’s a commitment and an honor to teach our littles at home.  I was sure that because he’s a fidgety boy, starting him in school a year early would make it so he finished “on time”.  He pleasantly surprised me.  Now he’s a grade above what he would be in public school.  Just confirmation of my convictions to not teach kids at the level you think they are at, but higher so they reach and work for all they learn.  Very rewarding for us both.

This is the look of a guy who’s off to get ice cream and dinner for such a momentous occasion.  He’s pretty sweet and cute if you ask me.

{working on his last page of kindergarten curriculum}

normal

Tags

content, moving, resting

It’s hard to have a normal flow in your day when so much is going on.  That’s exactly what I’m trying to do though.  Thinking of the laundry list of things we need to get for the new house, do at the new house, pack up still, clean up afterwards, moving the church into a building, finishing up school with Isabel, and preparing for the new baby is, frankly, overwhelming.  I’m trying to do all this while trying not to do anything at all…ligaments, back pain, and contractions are forcing me to relax often.  With only six weeks left until Desmond is born it is important for me to take care of myself.  I know this.  Part of me just wants to get it done anyways.  I can really drive myself crazy!

I do…drive myself and Nick crazy often.

So, I must rest.  I find that the only way this can be possible is to place all the to-do lists in the Lord’s hands.  I know he will take care of all that needs to be done.  Whatever doesn’t happen isn’t meant to be and I just have to accept it.  This is tough for me because I am not one to sit around.  I like to be busy doing productive things all the time. All the time.  When Nick starts ripping up carpet, I want to also.  When he’s scraping the floors and mopping them, I want to also.  I just like to be right in the middle of the action.  I’m not accustomed to being told, “Just go sit and relax”  while everyone around me is sweating and toiling.

A hard pill for me to swallow.  Not in my nature.

I am determined to make the best of this though.  I’ll sit, I’ll rest, and I’ll even ask for help.  God has blessed us with wonderful people in our church that want to help us in every way they can.  I’ll not turn them away or take the blessing from them the God is so willing to give. I’m going to find joy in whatever situation I’m in.  Contentment.  I see what you’re doing here Lord.  Teaching me in yet another way to be content.

dear friends

Tags

new house, refinishing hardwood floors, remodeling

Dear Friends,

I’m sorry I haven’t written much lately.  We have been so busy working on our new house.  I can’t wait to show you the pictures when it’s done.  Ever since Thursday, we have been at hard at work ripping out carpet and carpet tack, pounding in nails, sanding the floors, and taking off wall paper.  I am greatly pleased about the way it is turning out.  We have just a few more days before it is all done.

The kids have also been working hard as well.  Isabel has been a great help with the babies.  She has also been unpacking all the kitchen stuff.  Our pantry is full thanks to her.  Andre has enjoyed some manly labor too.  He definitely wants to keep the nail magnet.  There have been late nights and grumpy kids, but life is so crazy right now I can’t blame them.

I have been feeling surprisingly good considering all the work that’s been taking place.  Yesterday, I punched down hundreds of nails in preparation of sanding the floors.  I’m happy to announce that I didn’t smash my finger.  Not even once.  That was my personal goal for the day.  A smashing of a finger just leads to a smashing of another finger in my experience.  There just was no time for that.

I’ll confess that I was about half way through the family room when I almost gave up.  I actually almost cried.  I had been going for about four hours, and I still had so much it felt like it would never end.  A word was echoing in my head…perservere.  I just kept going.  A little Dairy Queen Blizzard does a body good :)  Snickers and cookie dough is a perfect match for splinters in the rear, sore fingers and cramped up arms.

Nick has been extra busy too.  He is still working all day.  Pray for him.  He is squeezing in study time for sermons whenever he can.  With all the work that he’s been doing on the house, he is maxed out.

We are almost done.  I’m so glad.  When we move in we’re just going to sit on the couch and admire the beautiful wood floors.  Some blood, some sweat, and near tears.  All those hours of labor.  If someone dents the floor, I think I’ll get physically sick.  I know every part of that floor intimately.  It’s like a part of me now.  An experience that I’ll never forget.  Memories of making our cute little house a home.

I’m not sure when I’ll write next.  Like I said, It’s busy around here.  Until then, God bless you and take care.  Count your blessings even in the hardest times.  Never forget that when you feel like giving up…persevere.  The reward in the end is incredible.

Love,

Jennee

progress is good

Tags

how to refinish hardwood floors, refinishing hardwood floors

Last night Nick put the clear primer and first coat of finish on the hardwood floors we’ve been so feverishly working on.  In case you would like to know how two people with zero experience can refinish a floor you can watch this video.  That’s how we learned.  We watched it a few times and got right at it.  If we can do this you can too.  I won’t say it’s easy.  It’s a lot of work, but it is simple.  Rip out carpet, take up carpet tacks, punch down nails, sand, fill in holes, finish, enjoy!

Here is Nick filling in the holes.  Yes, those are the nails I pounded in.  Every.  Last.  One.  See why I almost cried?  He didn’t ever do all the ones I pounded on.  Also notice the ugly wall paper is gone.  Yay.  We’re going to paint it a simalar color as you see here.  Just a tad more yellow.  I can’t wait to see it complete.  It should be done Thursday.  The floors…not the paint.  We’ll be doing that later.  I’m working with a list of milestones here.  Checking each off is going to be so relieving.

the big catch-up

Tags

baby shower, Leave it to Beaver, moving, refinishing hardwood floors

We are finally moved into our cute little house.  We love it.  It is perfect for us.  Since I love old vintage things so much, a vintage house is perfect for me.  The street is quiet and calm, the park is just around the corner, and the neighbor boy is at our house nearly everyday.  In fact he even stayed for dinner last night.  I feel like we’re living in the Cleaver’s world.  I just love June.  She cooks, cleans, and even knits.  That’s my ideal kind of role model :)

Here’s the final finish on the hardwood floors.  36+ hours of work in 5 days.  That’s good ol’ fashioned sweat equity.

We’re very prideful about our floors. Very.

*UPDATE*

I found a picture of the actual finished floor.  Nick was so kind as to point out my mistake :)

In the midst of this crazy move, I was surprised with a baby shower.  I walked into the room and burst into a ridiculous mess of overwhelmed sobbing.  I just can’t believe that in only one year God has surrounded me with such wonderful friends.  What a blessing.  I really can’t be blamed for the uncontrollable crying.  I am pregnant along with exhausted and shocked.  It was a good shocked though.  I am ready for little Desmond to come.  Real ready.  Not just with supplies and clothes, but I just can’t wait to meet him.

And so concludes our catch-up for today.  I have nothing else.  I’ve taken 8 pictures in 7 days.  Most of them are not good ones either :)  That’s unheard of around here.  Monday shall bring more I’m sure…and determined.  I missed you friends.

a full fun weekend

Tags

bbq, farmer's market, mother's day, spring cleaning, walks to the park

I have mostly unpacked the house, along with help from some friends here and there.  I decided Friday that we were going to have a box unpacking free day.  The kids and I (and the dog who would otherwise escape from the yard and come anyways) walked around the corner to the park and had ourselves a picnic lunch.

I love when the weather turns and you can enjoy a nice day outside.

Saturday the babes and I went for a beautiful walk to the same park to check out the Farmer’s Market.  I thought about taking the dog but decided not to since I was by myself with the babies.  She came anyways.  Running around the market like a stray.  I pretended I didn’t know her.  Scout has some abandonment issues.

Liv found some tiny bugs to entertain herself with.

Mother’s day was spent going to church, and doing some spring cleaning, and finally a BBQ.  By the way, we are very snobby about our steak.  Nick is the best at the grill.  Really.  We don’t even order steak at nice restaurants.  They always fall short.

Nick was so kind as to open up some windows that had been painted shut.  There’s nothing like a spring breeze blowing through the house.  Air flow.  It should never be taken for granted.  It’s just so refreshing.

I hope you all had a joyous weekend and Mother’s Day.  It’s goo to be back.

breakfast with my baby

Tags

kids, spending one on one time

I had the rare opportunity of having breakfast with Josie the other day.  Nick was off at work and the other kids were still asleep.  She is usually the last one awake, but since we’ve moved she has been the first.  I guess she can’t wait to jump on the beautiful floors and starts running ;)

With so many children it’s ever more important to make the most of these one on one moments, however short they are.  I am constantly looking for them.  It is easy to use them for my purposes (clean some dishes, fold some laundry), but with the yet another babe nearly here I am trying to just enjoy them.

sewing station

Tags

sewing area, sewing armoire, sewing corner, sewing setup

I am so excited to share my new sewing station with you.  It’s not the fanciest or the biggest, but for it it’s practical.  With this setup I am hoping to get some items sewn up before Desmond comes (3 weeks or so) and makes me extremely fatigued.  I can’t wait to get sewing.  Sew Mama Sew is finally done with their quilting month,which is far too involved for me at this point.  I am searching for a quick and easy project for Miss Isabel’s birthday.

A big added happiness to this arrangement is that when I’m done, it closes and hides any messes that I don’t feel like cleaning up.  That’s always a good thing.

a bit of knit

The other day I decided to start a project.  It feels so good.  Normal.  To be knitting a little again is relaxing and familiar.  That’s what I need right now.

bisbee fiber arts festival

Tags

farmer's market, fiber arts guild, knitting, spinning, weaving, yarn dying

Today we went to the Farmer’s Market again.  I love that I can just walk over there.  My girls and I went to see the Bisbee Fiber Arts Festival which happens once a year.  I am not yet a part of the guild, but only due to life circumstances.  Moving home, church, and waiting for baby has been enough for this month.

I was so excited to take the girls.  All the girls unfortunately included the dog.  I knew she would escape if we went without her, and I knew there would be lots of animals there.  I decided it’s better to have her on a leash.  The darned dog.  Stinker.

We got to see yarn dying…

spinning…

weaving…

yarn galore…

Isabel got to try her hand at weaving.  She loved it, just as I knew she would.

We also got to see some of the various animals used for fiber.

I was very inspired.  The girls had fun.  It was a great morning.

moments of happy

springing up

The mammoth sunflowers are popping up.  I absolutely love to see this happen.  Life.  Just a bit of water and sun and a tiny act of God and life springs up.  It amazes me every time.

“For as the earth brings forth her bud, and the garden causes the things that are sown to spring forth; so the Lord God causes righteousness and praise to spring forth before all nations.”  Isaiah 61:11

my people

These are my people.

I love them dearly.

a good laugh

We can all use a good laugh every now and again.  Liv decided to help everyone out with that on our first Sunday in our new church building.

Scented markers are more dangerous than they seem.  They can turn a kid into Adolf Hitler within seconds.

you know you’re 8.5 months pregnant when…

Tags

pregnancy

1.  You can breath, but your bladder has shrunk to the size of a walnut.  You are rushing to the bathroom and 1 tbs comes out.

2.  You can’t find your ankle bones despite all the watermelon you eat

3.  Everyone in the room is bundled in a blanket, except you, who is drinking ice water and sweating from pores you didn’t know existed

4.  You get so tired you can barely keep your eyes open, then 5 minutes later you are scrubbing down the baseboards with enthusiasm

5.  You eat entire pineapples to put yourself into labor

6.  You make your food extra spicy to put yourself into labor

7.  You go for more frequent walks to put yourself into labor

8.  You wonder why you’re not in labor

9.  Even your flip-flops are getting uncomfortable

10.  You wish you could get paid for emotional suffering every time someone asks, “You’re still pregnant?”

11.  You have to hold your breath and thrust forward to paint your toenails

12.  Panic sets in if you can’t find all your sleeping pillows.

13.  Nothing fits.  You have nothing to wear

14.  You go through makeup like crazy because your face is twice the size it used to be

15.  You can’t wait to be in the worst pain of your life

knit frenzy

Tags

baby sleep sack, cascades 220 wool yarn, diaper cover, Jane Richmond pattern, knit, knitting, scarf, wool, wool soaker, yarn

I have finally gotten back into the knit of things around here.  All my needles and yarn are accessable, and my need for sitting down is increasing.  Therefore,  I have gone knit crazy.  In only one day I made a second wool soaker for Desmond, using the curly purly pattern again.  I am very relieved that it’s done before he arrived.  I just love how tiny it is.  I can’t believe it’s for a human and not a Polly Pocket.  I am always amazed about the size of newborns.  You think by now I’d be used to it.  I am not.

I cast on just today for a sleep sack for Des.  I am using the Kicking Bag for Babies pattern.  Do you notice something weird?  Yes, that’s a turkey baster.  I saw this genius idea on Thornberry yesterday.  My verdict is that it’s awesome for starting the ball.  I took it off and finished it by hand when it wasn’t much bigger than this.  Maybe the sock yarn was the problem.  It is very silky.  I’ll be trying it again with some wool.  It was great to not be throwing the yarn and watching it roll across the floor unraveling all the work.  I’m determined to wind a whole skien next time.

Finally, I’d like to share with you all that I have a pattern crush on Jane Richmond.  I love all her patterns.  They are fresh, hip, and beautiful.  I cast on the Mustard Scarf.  It was a must.  They pattern is very simple too.  That’s always a good thing for a scatter-brained person like me.

This concludes Confessions of a Knitaholic With a Yarn Addiction…for now.

perfect desmond

7 lbs 7 oz, 19 inches of perfection.

Meet Desmond Nicholas Garcia.  Born May 29th at 12:27 pm.

He sweet and mellow and we are all smitten with this little guy.

photo shoot with Des

This morning I decided we needed some more pictures of  Des and his chicken legs.  They don’t stay skinny for long.  Time is of the essence.  He seemed content to be un swaddled and so we went for it.

Gotta get the feet…

…5 minutes was all he gave me before he was ready for a nap :)

still going

Tags

kicking bag for babies, knitting, sleep sack

Still working on the Kicking Bag for Babies.  Slowly, it is coming along.  I am hopeful that it will be done before he outgrows it.  A round or two in the hospital, in the car, at the park, and mostly while nursing and holding little Desmond.

I feel the need to be creating something.  It makes the day’s focus productive amidst the dirty floors, scattered toys, and such.

the first outing

Tags

family day, family fun, park

Yesterday was the mark of a first in this home.  I took the kids by myself for the first time on an outing.  All (five?) of them.  Five kids.  That’s crazy.  What kind of nutty person has Five kids? Ahem,  I guess that would be me.

A quick stroll to the park seemed perfect.  No time limits, no stores, nobody waiting on us to get there on time.  I’m not sure why but the addition of a family member always leads to chaos and tension among the older children.  We needed some relief or cabin fever was sure to follow.

It was hot, but the need to leave was too great to ignore.  We had a nice peaceful time.

Des crashed in the sling while I knit.

Josie walked her snack off, pausing only to throw dirt.  March, march, march.  She likes to march.  She’s very serious about her marching too.

Liv was close by often, as to not miss any Desmond activity.  I’m sure she thinks he’s truly her brother.  And she was looking glam as usual.  She’ll grow into a fashionista some day.  Not sure how that happened.  Notice there were no pictures me?  There’s a reason for that.

Isabel talked with me most of the time, which I thought was sweet.  She is going faster than I like to admit, and loves to make funny faces.

And as I was taking a picture of Andre, I accidentally caught him in the act…of peeing off that big rock right next to the road!  When you gotta go you gotta go.  But, why can’t you go in the toilet?  That’s what I always say.

Did I really just post that?  How could I not?  Sorry, it won’t happen again.  I hope the neighbors and cars driving by didn’t notice…but if they did they can get the freeze frame image here.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Happy anniversary!

June marks this blog’s one year anniversary.  I am so blessed by you readers.  Your comments make me feel like I’m not talking to myself all the time.  Seriously, they do.  I first started this blog because I myself love to read blogs.  I felt it would be a good way to share with friends and readers some of the awesome resources, life lessons, and creativity that I have discovered over the years.  I only wish I had discovered the world of blogging much sooner.

Now that I’ve been at it for a while, I have realized that I have a need to blog.  Call it therapeutic, or an outlet if you will, but it keeps me focused.  No one wants to read about how awful someone’s life is (I assure mine is not), or read a bunch of rambling complaints.  Blogging makes it so I must find in each day the good.  I have to focus on what was fun, productive, and exciting.  I often find myself creating moments to share with you.  Things I want to do, but might put off or skip altogether if I didn’t need to post something that day.  They are wonderful moments with my family, my sewing machine, my knitting needles, pots/pans…whatever was great that day, I share with you.  That might sound strange, but I’m being completely honest.  You keep me in line, and I feel the obligation to have something of interest for you as often as possible.

Thank you for listening  reading.  Really and truly it is great to have a connection with adults even if it is a comment box :)

in the garden

Tags

gardening, natural pesticides, organic pesticides

Last year I had such bad luck with starting a garden from seed.  I tried three times before I gave up.  First birds, than rabbits, than freak weather.  This year I cheated.  I only planted sunflowers from seed, and bought the rest as plants.  I am so excited to see them growing bigger everyday.  Tomatoes, zucchini, crook neck squash, and bell peppers are on their way to being enjoyed.

On a related note, I found  links on how to make your own natural pesticides here and here.  I can’t wait to try them out.

sleep sack done

After countless hours of knitting with sock yarn, I am so excited that Desmond can finally enjoy the sleep sack.  I have no idea why I decided to start this days before he was born instead of months…but I’m glad I did.

paper vs cloth

I finally ran out of the newborn size paper diapers.  I am so glad.  Whoever said that cloth diaper leak more than paper either A) has never used cloth diapers,  B) used junkie diaper covers or C) left their kid wet for a crazy amount of time.

So glad to be back in cloth.  What?  Do I sound psycho to you?  You would never use cloth?  Cloth would be fine if you didn’t have to do the “poop thing”?  It’s so much more work?

I used to say all those things until financial reasons landed us a nice stack of freshly washed cloth diapers.  Ever since then, I have found myself actually enjoying cloth diapering.  If that doesn’t sound crazy enough I’ll take it a step farther.  If I were rich I would still use cloth diapers.

I have a friend in the medical field who has been hearing about lots of cases involving the new Pampers Dry Max.  Apparently, they are giving kids terrible rashes.  Here’s my question, “Why would you want your baby to feel dryer longer?”  Seriously, if your baby is wet you should change your baby.  You shouldn’t come up with new ways to make it seem as though your baby isn’t wet.  Yuck!

Changing a baby every 2-3 hours prevents bacteria from growing.  Change your baby!  If you were wet you would change immediately right?

Fear not I’m not mad.  I’m just passionate.  Keeping babies in their filth for any longer than 3 hours is just nasty.

So, needless to say…we’re back in cloth and loving it.

We’re looking mighty cute while doing it too.

the number 7

Seven seems to be a number that keep coming up around here as of late.  Yesterday we celebrated yet another 7.  Isabel turned 7!  Is that possible?  I feel like if I blink she’s going to be a teenager.  Yikes…better keep my yes taped open from now on.  Though we will be having her party in a week or so, we wanted to be sure that she didn’t feel forgotten on her birthdate.  She was one happy girl.  She likes attention, and who can blame her?

mustard scarf

Tags

jane richmond, knitting, lamb's pride yarn, mustard scarf, scarf

Once I got going on this pattern it went pretty fast.  In a couple of days it was complete.  The longest part was deciding on a button and fixing myself up fancy enough for a picture.  Here you go…I put on makeup.  Didn’t want any comment asking if I was sick.  I get those without mascara and blush.  It seems I am pale and lash-less without these.  Thank you cover girl.

The pattern was very easy.  I made no changes and am pleased with the outcome.  I have a new favorite scarf.  Just in time for…uh…summer?

progress

Tags

knitting, seed stitch jacket, sewing, tummy time

Much is the same around here even with the addition of little Des.  In the same sense much has changed.  Try as I might I just can’t seem to do all the things I want to do creatively.  The one thing that I can still manage while holding a baby is knitting.  Currently I’m working on the Seed Stitch Jacket for Desmond.  I am also trying my hand at yet another pattern.

Sewing hasn’t happened for some time in this but house, but little by little I have been working on a couple of projects for Miss Isabel’s birthday presents.  Mostly I have been thinking of them in the wee hour nursing sessions that have been waking me for the last three weeks.

On a more adorable note, Desmond has finally had his first tummy time moments today.  I know, I’m such a bad mom.  It took three weeks to get the little guy on his tummy.  I have yet to read him a book too.  You know, I think the person that makes all these suggestions only has one kid.  Two tops.  I struggle to read to the kids that can actually understand the book, so, the baby can wait until he sees color and can focus without crossing his blue eyes. That said here are some more pictures for your eyes to behold.

snakes and snail and puppy dog tails…

Tags

boys, climbing

…and crazy ninja climbing incidents.  This is my boy.  He likes to climb.  He likes to climb up high.  He likes to climb up high and try to give his mother a heart attack.  I’m too young for heart attacks, but he likes to test things out just in case.

I confess.  Though I hollered for him to get down, I qualified it by saying,  ”Let me take a picture first, but don’t ever do that again.”

Bad parenting?  Maybe.  This was a moment that needed to be documented for the future interviews I get from Access Hollywood.  They’ll be wondering when his interest in stunt acting began.  Then this picture will come up on the back screen.

For the record he also enjoys worming his way up street signs and flag poles.

chub turns one month

This is little chub.  He’s growing up so fast.

all American

Tags

fourth of July, freedom, freedom in Christ

I’d like to start out by saying, “Happy Fourth of July!” I was thinking so much about what that means.  Have you?  I always feel more patriotic around this time of year.  Every year I feel like a hypocrite because of it.  It’s not as though I am never mindful of the great appreciation I have because I live in America.  It’s not that I never think about lives that are lost fighting for my freedom and comfort.  I almost can’t tell you why I feel like a hypocrite.  It’s some reason between I have to teach my kids about the meaning of Fourth of July instead of them just knowing due to constant talk and thankfulness for this country, and the fact that my generation– despite the real war going on– seem to have a disconnect and rebellion buried deep within.  A sort of “me” focus instead of a faithfulness to country.  A “you owe it to me” attitude.

As a child I was taught the history of America.  It always seemed so far in the past that I could never fully relate to the emotional connection known as patriotism.  I assume that to some point the reason for this is because war has changed so much.  It’s smarter and voluntary.  Distant.  It goes on in places I’ve never seen.  And I’ve always been comfortable.  Never awakened by bombs and panic.  Never suppressed in a way that forced my family to run or move.  As an adult I understand it better now.  I can imagine it because of books, news, and movies.

My point is that I am grateful for my freedoms, not happy about the ones that seem to be changing, and I understand the sacrifices made not only at the foundations of The United States of America, but now.  I know people fighting for my freedoms over seas.  I pray for them and their families.  I understand why the forming of this country was necessary.  It’s not uncommon.  Religious freedom.  For that I am thankful.  More thankful than for any other “right” I have.

I decided to post links to the Bill of Rights and the Constitution.  I haven’t even looked at them since high school.  I urge you to read these words and think about what these men faced as they traveled across the sea, fleeing religious suppression and a controlling government.  Maybe it was the language or hand penned words playing on my heart-strings or just imagining life at this time.  I felt a connection.  Patriotism.  I also know it’s worth protecting what was fought for and established so long ago.

a good laugh

Tags

brian regan, comedy, laundry

For mom’s and avid ironing people everywhere.  He’s my favorite comedian right now.

picture post: independence day

Tags

fourth of July, independence day

photographer in training

I love when toddlers get into the mimicking stage.  I feel honoured that she wants to be like me.  Like all of us really.  I love this girl.  She’s remarkable.

Oh, and let’s just imagine she’s properly cleaned off.  Isabel’s been “helping” out a lot since Desmond has come along.  She’s great too.

ice cream sock hop

Tags

50s, birthday, poodle skirts, sewing a poodle skirt, sock hop

The day finally arrived…Isabel’s birthday party.  Never mind that it was a month late.  Never mind that I bought her gifts instead of making than as I had planned.  She got a party.  That’s all she really wanted.  I saw the idea for a make-your-own-sundae party here.  I ran out of time to do all the really cute stuff (the signs, and ordering hats and cute bowls, ect.), but the kids loved it.

Let me take you back in time to a place in small town America where the music is fun, the kids are carefree, and the sweets are in abundance.  Welcome to the ice cream parlor/soda shop.  A place where people to gather to have a good time…

to brighten your day

A smile from a baby is like a sunrise…sure to brighten even the darkest day.  He’s full of smiles now.  Six weeks of sleep deprivation pays off when you wake every morning to a chubby little face gleaming with delight.

how to clean right

Maybe this is why I can never get my to-do list done.  No lipstick.

change of plans

Tags

christmas crafts, holiday, josie, stitches

Wouldn’t you know it?  Just as soon as I plan out Christmas gifts for crafting, and actually feel like starting it straight away, my sweet Josie baby decides to be the first child to have stitches.  She fell right on our decorative baseboard, splitting her head in two places.  Luckily she was given the super glue stitch method and she is doing great now.

Motherhood has a way of changing your daily plans.  Today there will be plenty of cuddling and tentative play, and very little crafting.  I am enjoying the sweet snuggles despite the worry of concussion that is settled in the back of my mind–which I am praying away.

smiles garcia

sewing again

What can a new pair of sewing scissors and a bias tape maker do?

Motivate even the busy, exhausted, mama to sew instead of cleaning her very messy house.  I’m so glad I finally have a nursing cover.  Directions for making your own are in the side bar.  Have a fabulous weekend.

the oasis weekend

We had the opportunity to spend an afternoon with some sweet friends.  I think I’ll be escaping there alone some day.  If I go MIA you’ll know where to find me.

library love

Have I ever mentioned how much I love the library?  I do.  Free books.  Nuff said.  On my shelf for the next three weeks…

Time to get inspired to be creative again…and hopefully have time to do it too.

skirts for mama

I decided to use what’s left of the summer for sewing up some much-needed clothes for me.  The fall is set aside for Christmas gifts, so it’s now or never.

First up is a  knit yoga skirt.  This is my first time sewing knit fabric.  It’s not scary like I anticipated.  I read up on it, and everything turned out great.

{please excuse my un-pedicured, only flip-flop wearing feet}

I sewed up another three-tier skirt too.  I love these.  Easy and fun.  An excellent way to use up small cuts of left-over fabric.  The top and bottom tier fabric is from Jo~ann’s, and the middle is Alexander Henry.

another wooly bum

Tags

cascades 220 wool, diaper cover, knit, knitting, wool soaker

I tried out a new pattern for a soaker.  It was an easy knit and turned out to be a good fit for little miss Josie.  I used left-overs from the other soakers I made.  Cascades 220 wool.  Fab yarn, glam girl.

the great mountain escape

Tags

family fun, nature

busy with fun

Tags

family outings, pool

Quiet here has meant lots of fun here.  Yesterday we went up the road to enjoy the seasonal waterfalls that flow during the monsoon season here.  I never thought it could rain so much in the desert.  Living in Prescott I never saw such storms as I see here.

The kids also completed the summer reading program through our local library.  The pizza/pool party was both fun and survived– by me who was just trying to make sure my children didn’t go under the water for long lengths of time.

getting into the swing of things

This has made life so much easier here.

See baby…

See baby sleep…

the terrible, wonderful two

Tags

josie

Maybe it’s a myth, but when a child–and namely a girl– is close to turning two, you end up getting many looks like this…

Despite the frustrations a face like this can bring, all I can be is thankful.  Thankful that when this look is followed by “no!” she is developing just like any other two year old.  Happy Birthday my sweet tiny Josie-Bean.  You are a constant reminder of the love and wisdom in the will of God.

we saw, we did, we’re back

The kids and I headed up north.  This is what we did…

Then we met up with dad and headed up and over to Santa Fe and Los Alamos New Mexico.  I must say that my preconceived  ideas about New Mexico were dissolved by the beauty.

The kids enjoyed their first-ever fishing day.

A success.

an apple a day

We’ve been seeing many doctors lately.  Well, I’ve been seeing them.  Two medical doctors, one natrapath, and two chiropractors to be exact.  This is the reason went went to grandma and grandpa’s, and the reason we headed to New Mexico.

So far I have five different guesses, normal lab work, and medicines and suppliments that have not worked.  After talking it through with my local doc, he decided to send me to a neurologist.  That sort of scares me, but I trust that God is in control.

I don’t share this with you for pitty, but simply for your prayers.  I have been experiencing such strange symptoms, and it is effecting my ability to care for my family, sew, knit, and even type.

Weakness of the muscles mainly, and joint pain are the most prominent annoyences.

This is why I’ve been absent from this spot.  Not because I have been too busy, uninspired, or lazy.  I just can’t always share.

I am in a place where there is really nothing to do but wait, pray, and think about whatever lesson God will show me through this.  Wait.  Not my strong point.  Pray.  Something I don’t do nearly enough.  Lessons.  Not alway easy to learn.

I am thankful to have a God who knows all, loves me, and never leaves me or forsakes me. Never.  I have nothing to complain about, really.  What more could I need than the love, protection and loyalty from the God who spoke the World into existance.

I am determined not to complain, whine, or have any more pitty parties.  I will not.  I know that it can always be worse than it is, and I am grateful that it’s not.  My God is merciful, even when I’m not.  Even when I’m not deserving.

simple pleasures

Tags

blanket, josie, quilt

Last night we were given this quilt by someone I don’t know.  She made it just for Josie.

She heard about Josie from my mother-in-law, and she felt the need to bless her with a beautiful handmade quilt she named “Simple Pleasures”.

Bubbles, air balloons, kites, fish, tea cups, fireworks, and carousals are among the pleasures this quilt features.  Josie is thrilled to have a possession to guard, and Nick and I are touched by the sweet gesture.

I apologize about the focus.  I’m trying to figure out a camera more complicated than humans.

{this moment}

Tags

Photography, soule mama

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

This idea is from soule mama.

sir chubby blue eyes

Guess who’s three months already?  That’s right!  Mr. Desmond.  He is such a joy.  And get a load of those eyes!  Love him.  I really, really do.

And look what he can do…

Isn’t he talented?  I bet you can’y do that ;)

putting the fun in school

It has occurred to me that school at home should be fun.  I know, I know, big revelation huh?  Actually, yes.  At the end of last school year, I implemented the “do-a-page-and-get-a-treat” rewards system.

In efforts to save our kids teeth from rotting, and their bodies from climbing the curtains, my husband came up with the idea of a school “store”.  It’s been  many months, but I finally got around to doing it today.

The rewards of this system are:

1.  They get rewarded for good instead of in trouble for bad

2.  They learn the value of money and saving

3.  Increases productivity

4.  Takes the pressure off me (to constantly keep them going)

5.  Makes school fun/something to look forward to

Introducing “Fun Bucks”  (name thought of any voted for by all three kids..it was unanimous)

What’s in the store for purchase?

Treasure chest items will include (but not excluded to): candy, pencils, small toys, erasers, jewelry, matchbox cars.

computer game time

game board pick

dairy queen ice cream

yoyos/slinkies (kid’s requested items)

a new book of choice

When do you get a Fun Buck? (during school time)

no complaining

extraordinary work

excellent citizenship (being extra nice/helpful)

I made a table for the store menu in MS Word, and used PagePlus (free download) to make the  Fun Bucks.

What are some ways you make school fun?

{this moment}

Tags

Photography, shadows, soule mama

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

This idea is from soule mama.

fresh fruit

Tags

gardening

Today we had the pleasure of picking some fruit at our friend’s house.  Grapes, figs, pomegranates, and a bit of basil.  The only problem is that I now what a grapevine.  I guess that’s not a problem, just an expense.  Thank you friends for sharing your bounty.

a funny video

This kept me laughing.  You really can’t blame her though.  We’ve all done it.

garden cooking or cooking the garden

This is year two of not doing so great on the garden.  Last year I gave up after starting from seed 3 times with no luck.  First the birds came and ate the seed, then the rabbits ate the leaves, and finally there was a freak freeze that turned my growing spouts into yellow, shriveled sadness.

This year I bought plants to avoid last year’s trials.  No good luck this time either.

Look at these sappy guys.  Full sun was written on the instructions, by apparently that’s not what it meant.  Next year will try again on the shadier side of the house.  What a dissapointment :(

What are some hardy heat resistant food you like to grow in your garden?  All tips you have are welcomed.  Hope your gardens didn’t get cooked before you harvested like mine.

What are your favorite things to grow in the fall and winter?  I’m thinking of doing romaine, garlic, onion, snap peas, and broccoli. I like to think big and execute small.

too fast

This guy is just getting too big too fast.  I know I should be excited that in just about 2.5 years I’ll never deal with diapers again.  So far It’s been non-stop for 7 year  I should be glad to have uninterrupted sleep forever. No more diaper bag (I get to have my own purse…what is a purse?), no getting spat up on, no more losing teeny tiny socks.  You get the picture.  This is great news right?  Wrong.  I am already sad that he’s drooling.  Drooling means teeth, and future weaning and talking and feeding himself, and not needing me to hold him anymore.  This is no good.

I must be thankful for every 4am feeding.  Before I know it he’ll be wiping my bottom.  Well, maybe not him…but someone will.

I used to think that people who said that years fly by were old.  I guess that makes me old.  Now I understand all too well. Babies grow up quick.  Life goes by too fast.

weird stuff we do

Tags

frugality, green virgin proucts, laundry, soap nuts

About one month ago our laundry washing habits changed dramatically.  I have long used Costco detergent, and then switched to the environmentally friendly variety.  While buying laundry detergent in bulk saves money…I’m always looking for even more ways to save.

I decided to change to a vinegar and baking soda, but I was swayed to an even cheaper, and stranger in modern standards, alternative.  Soap Nuts.

What the heck are soap nuts?  How would that possibly get close to cleaning my kids’ filthy clothes?  What kind of weird hippy family are you running?

Let me explain.

1.  After a quick web search (gotta love Google), I determined that the least expensive soap nuts are found over at Green Virgin Products.  For $27.00 and (I believe) free shipping, I hopped on the soap nut band wagon…if one does not yet exist I’m creating one here.  27 bones gets you 330 + loads of fresh clean laundry that needs no softener.  Seriously none is need.  No static.

2.  There’s a wonderful page on how they work.

3.  I’m not a hippy, nor do I want to be (drugs are shunned in our house).  I am, however; a frugal person who is always trying to find ways to save a buck…and also money.  Often that results in using more natural products around the house.

Since using them I can most honestly say they work great.  We have lots of “potty accidents” here, not to mention cloth diapers that need mild yet strong cleaning, and also a new baby and a kid with mild eczema.

One soap for all these purposes is so nice.  I do use a laundry booster for my cloth diapers to insure bacterial removal (oxyclean baby), and I also use borax for heavily soiled washes (mostly rags towels ect).

Three cheers for healthy family choices that are simply a by-product of keeping more cash in the bank.

under a mess and the weather

Hi friends.  I just wrote to let you know I haven’t forgotten you.  We are battling colds in the house.  This means cranky kids.  Cranky kids that need so extra holding and such.

Another reason for the silence is that my camera battery charger had gone missing.  I think truly it is not missing, but rather buried under clutter and clothes.  I have committed myself to deep cleaning this house until it is recovered.  I know I saw it recently…you know that feeling don’t you?

Anyhow, happy Wednesday to you all.  May your camera battery not get “misplaced” and your children remain healthy.

schooling the unschoolable

Tags

cleaning, homemaking

Learning this week has been slow-going.  Partly because of sickness (cranky kids), and partly due to the mess in the schoolroom (will it ever end?), and mostly because of me.  When mama feels discouraged it is hard it invoke excitement to the rest of the class.  I’m not feeling ill towards school, not in the least.  The problem lies within the rest of the house.

Have you ever seen the Hoarders show?  Yeah, I don’t want that happening here.  How do people live like that?  I’m really exaggerating here just so you know.  Anyways, I have been really trying to muster up the energy to get this house in order.  I have, in the past, tried to live up to that “cleanliness is close to Godliness” motto.  Because it became somewhat of an idol to me, I went the other direction.

I find myself currently behind in laundry, cleaning, and dishes…oh the dishes.  I realize that in a large family messes do happen.  Many of them, in fact.  Many, many, messes.  I feel it is far too much work for one person.  I have been struggling to do all these tasks, when in reality I am spinning my wheels.  Something has to change right?  I mean, I can’t even find the charger for my camera.  I can always find at least that.  Clutter is like being trapped.  No room to breath.  No room to live.

Today I’ve come to realize that God is trying to teach me something.  I clearly have not heeded to the lesson.  I cannot allow my house to become an idol, and certainly I’m not to become a A&E special.  Balance.  That is what I need.  Balance.  How do I find balance?  This seems to be such a huge topic for many other bloggers I have read.  What to do, what to do?

Making up a cleaning schedule has worked for me in the past; however, I feel defeated when it doesn’t all get done.  For some this may be a great option, it was for me until baby five came.  I’ve recently tried the wait for it to get bad and then do something about method.  I found that the entire house gets equally bad, and I haven’t the energy and time to do it all at once.

I write here today in absolute surrender.  I must humble myself to the will of God even in this.  Even if it means working more than I want.  Even if I have no energy, or motivation.  After all, if I view my job at home as a job, then I need to act as if it is a job.  In other words, I can’t call in sick everyday.  I can’t be unproductive.  When I’m “at work” I need to be moving.  Yes, I do get breaks, but they are just that.  I can no longer “listen to my body” and sit down whenever I feel the least bit tired.  I have learned that there is a fine line between a break and idleness.

I really have to watch myself…this I know.  I tend to view things in black and white only.  I can’t work so much and so hard that my children suffer.  I can’t become a “workaholic”, but I definitely need to work a bit more.  I can work graciously and make it fun for everyone.  Some of my favorite childhood memories involve cleaning the house.  I still know all the words to the Eagles, Kenny Rogers, Linda Ronstadt, Micheal Jackson, and Air Supply records (yes records) that used to play while we cleaned.

All I’m sayin’ is  I think I have given into the “you have five kids” and you need to have “you time” a little too much.  These things are true, yet they are not an excuse to clock out.

And so, I find myself at the end of this school week being the one who’s learning the most.  Learning to let go, learning to hold on and learning the balance of a comfortable home.  One in which learning, baking, laughing, and loving is upheld in a semi-organized fashion.

P.S.  Don’t be hatin’ on the music I mentioned.  I really love all of these records.  I hope I’ll be able to brainwash my kids into loving it as well.  More on this later.

tree stump

Tags

home/yard projects

My extremely manly husband helped pull out a tree stump yesterday.  I documented it because I’m weird I have no life I have been going through picture-taking withdrawals.  Behold the mighty tree stump.  Some say it’s impossible to defeat it.  I say two trucks, three guys, two car jacks, random wood and blocks, one sawsall, one chain saw, a crowd of onlookers, and 5.5 hours will conquer it.

Despite what this looks like, safety and caution were of the utmost importance.

Tree stump…you just got owned!

baby feet

little genius

I often (everyday) have to catch myself with Mr. Andre.  The thing about him, is that he makes many messes.  He ties yarn, string my headscarves, and robe to everything.  Everything includes: doorknobs (my least favorite), closet bars, other toys, light fixtures, clothes, shoes…the list goes on.

I keep telling him to stop, just to waste my breath.  I’m not sure exactly why this bothers me so.  It’s most likely due to the frustration involved in trying to get things untied.

Today I happened upon a mess of yarn in the girls room.  It was all over the french door…on the knobs (my least favorite).  *deep breath*

“Andre…”

“Look mom.”

Then I saw the genius.

He’s a constant reminder to me that I shouldn’t be so quick to rain on a parade.  A reminder to cultivate the talents and minds they’re given, not to stifle their natural abilities.

back to my 8th love

For all you knitters (or crocheters) out there, maybe you understand.  I just absolutely love knitting.  It’s not only fun, relaxing, and creative, but there’s just something about that soft wool yarn running through my fingers that makes me feel at home.  This is where I belong.  Knitting, with the other loves of my life around me, thanking God above for simple pleasures.

old trucks

Tags

Ford, old, Photography, trucks

I am a country girl at heart.  Yes, I like country music, classic rock and roll, the smell of horse manure (I’m not kidding), and old trucks.  I love trucks.  If there was an affordable (gas, insurance, and cost) truck that would fit all my kids into it, I’d barter with my husband for one.  Sunday I took a photo op. with a very cool Ford.  Love the color, love the truck, love the cute kids in the back.

homemade toothpaste

Tags

dr. ellie, homemade, hygiene, teeth, toothpaste, xylitol

I read a post from Tammy’s Recipes long ago about homemade toothpaste.  To be honest, I didn’t think I’d ever try it.  Because I was out of toothpaste, and mainly due to the fact that of budget for the month is used, I made some last night.  I had a moment where information met immediate need.  The brain clicked.  It’s always nice when that happens.

I just happened to have some peppermint oil on hand, which was given to me.  I have also started buying coconut oil as a replacement for canola or vegetable oil. I didn’t have any Stevia, so I just didn’t put it in.  In the future I will use Xylitol granules.  If you don’t know what that is here is some great facts about why you should be using it daily.  I was surprised to find that you can 1) restore gum recession and 2) restore enamel.  I always thought that once it was gone that was it.  There is hope :)

Just as soon a I made it (which took three minutes while holding a baby) I gave it a shot.  My verdict was I really liked it.  I will say that the taste of baking soda isn’t a flavor I’m used to, however; the mint is helpful.  I really love the way my teeth feel afterwards.  Slick and clean.

To read a full post on how to clean your teeth and save your gums read Dr. Ellies blog.  I am planning on integrating her system into our house in the next month or two.  I have a new obsession.  Healthy teeth and gums.

monsters

Tags

boys, courage, drawing, monsters

monters

Originally uploaded by vintagemamasew

Andre likes to draw monsters. He likes it a lot. I love that in almost every drawing he himself is portrayed as a monster slayer. He defends his loved ones from imminent danger, and usually, the monster is at least ten times his size. I love the natural protection instincts of the male gender.

I love that Andre has explains for very long periods of time, an entire story from one simple drawing. Sometimes the story is more than a day long. Meaning not that he talks for more than a day, but that the picture represents that time frame. It’s cute, courageous, and creative. I also very much love that since he doesn’t have much exposure to violent games and movies, the page isn’t covered in blood. It’s a clean kill of the monster sort.

I’m not saying it won’t ever happen, but for now he’s not into the violence…just the idea of defending his family and friends. A warrior at heart, that little guy of mine. I love him…and his drawings.

homemade bagels

The recipe for these fresh and very delicious bagels is found at Tammy’s Recipes.  I made the dough into 12 balls, next time I’ll do 8…for obvious reasons :)

{this moment}

Tags

art, painting, soulemama, this moment, watercolor

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Inspired by SouleMama.

Handmade Christmas

For the past couple of years I have made a commitment to make all or most of our Christmas presents.  In this house there are two reasons for that.  The first is for economic reasons.  The second is simply because I belive everyone I love deserves something made just for them.  Nothing is more personal and heart-felt.  The gift my be small…sometime just a simple hat.  When I make a gift, I think about and pray for that person often.  Sometimes in this busy life, that’s the only time I’m that fervent about it.  I feel so connected to each person through their gift.  I am searching for the perfect way to convey to you the emotion involved.

Thinking about the individual for so long makes me appreciate them in my life, feel a deeper love for them, and think of all the reasons I love who they are.  It’s not just a gift I’m making, It’s an attitude and feeling I have towards them.  Whether it’s sewing or knitting, I’d better get to loving my family one stitch at a time.

If you would like to join me this season in hand making gifts, leave a comment in the box.  I would love to see your projects as they’re completed.  To go a step farther, share something about the receiver that you never want to forget, or that you cherish about them.

Remember you don’t have to make all your gifts to participate.  Save money and make memories.  Commit to at least one hand-made gift this Christmas.

Sewing, crochet, knitting, baking, crafting, woodworking, and art are some venues for your handmade gifts.

nana lupe’s mexican rice

Tags

food, Mexican rice, nana, rice, Spanish rice, tomato

Years ago my mother-in-law gave me the recipe her mother-in-law gave her.  Mexican rice has many variations, this one is from a real live mexican mama.  Nick’s grandma Lupe was known for her amazing mexican cuisine.  In fact she ran a tortilla shop right here in Bisbee.  The revenues from this little gold mine helped support her ten children.  Yeah, TEN kids.  And you thought I was crazy :) Here it goes…

What you need:

1 cup white rice

1  can of diced tomatoes or 3 fresh tomatoes diced (all I had was a huge can of whole tomatoes so, I cut them up)

1 medium onion (any variety)

2 tbs olive oil (or any oil)

salt

pepper

1 tbs diced garlic (about 3 cloves)

2 1/4 cups of water *see below for canned tomato variation*

1 chicken bouillon cube or 2 tsp of powdered bouillon

Direction:

1.  In a medium pot brown the rice and onion in olive oil

2.  *Meanwhile, drain canned tomatoes, placing the liquid into a measuring cup.*  If using fresh tomato, skip to step 3.

3.  Add garlic and tomatoes to browned rice mix.

4.  Pour in water, and bouillon *add water to tomato juice to equal 2 1/4 liquid total*

5.  Bring to boil.  Cover and reduce heat to simmer.

6.  Cook for 15-20 minutes or until rice has absorbed water.

7.  salt and pepper to taste.

Serve with your favorite Mexican meal.

first bites

Tags

baby food, desmond, first food

Desmond has become increasingly interested in table food.  The excited flailing arms go wild when he sees our plates filled with colorful options.  I tend to put off solids until at least six months, but he was showing signs of readiness at four.  A few days ago he was particularly hungry, and nursing so frequently that I decided to pull out the baby cereal to see if he was ready.

Dad shot these images of his first bites.

Look he’s interested.

Well, maybe not so much.

What is this?

Stop I can’t take it anymore.

That was nasty.  Maybe I’ll stick with mama’s milk for a few more months.

fall/winter jacket

I finally finished a sweater for Desmond.  I had some cascade 220 wool yarn, he had no warm clothes, and I finally was feeling like my normal self.  These three things equaled this Ribbed Jacket for the littlest guy.  I think it’s just big enough to last the cold seasons.  I added button holes to make a snug closed fit.  Details are on my Ravelry page.

for my Liv

Tags

christmas, christmas crafts, handmade hoilday

The Favorite Knit Hat is fresh off the needles for my miss Olivia’s Christmas gift.  A Mustard Scarf is underway to complete her knitted gifts for the holiday.  Double points for that rhyme  ;)

Progress is always good, with cool nights and mornings it’s just the kind of atmosphere I need for motivation.

instant cappuccino

Tags

cappucino, coffee, frugality

Though it’s rare for me  to indulge in caffeinated beverages but, Nick relies upon  them to take his tired self from hitting the sack to studying for a couple hour at night.  Here’s my recipe for instant coffee.

1 cup vanilla flavored powdered creamer

2 cup unflavored creamer

2 1/2 cups hot cocoa mix

1 cup of instant coffee

1 tsp cinnamon

Mix all ingredients thoughly.

*1/4 of mix per 80z of boiling water*

{this moment}

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Inspired by SouleMama.

a quieting

One admittance to the hospital, one baby reluctantly drinking formula, one mama pumping like crazy to maintain a healthy milk production,and one family in need of a re-coop.  It’s been a long couple of days.

After a severe case of food poisoning, I am doing much better.  Still healing and waiting until the meds get through my system to get back to nursing Des.  Oh, of all the pain and worry, this is the worst.  Seeing my poor guy wanting to nurse and not letting him.  He even smells different :(  I’ll be back in this place next week with a fresh perspective and a nursing baby…

God bless you all in trials, and when the sun is shining on your face.  So many things to share in just a bit longer.

before the mishap…photos

Tags

blessing, football, photos

Here are some happy moments before I ended up in the hospital.  By the way, I am feeling just about normal now and Desmond is happily nursing again.

God has been so quick and gracious to heal my body.  What I thought would take a week, He has done in just a few short days.  Praise be to God for all gifts and blessings He bestows upon us.

{this moment}

Tags

pho, picture, tea time, this moment

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Inspired by SouleMama

liv’s mustard scarf

The last of miss Liv’s knitted gifts for Christmas.  The Mustard Scarf by Jane Richmond.

baked three cheese penne with marinara

It’s been a long seven months or so (moving, refinishing wood floors, moving the church, having a baby, adjusting to five kids, starting up a new year of homeschooling, being diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, getting food poisoning ect.) and being Italian I kept going for the same easy dinner– spaghetti.

“The Lord is my Shepard I shall not want…”  Can’t believe we made it through all that.  Sheesh!  Long story short…

Nick is done with spaghetti– and who could blame him?  I, however; could literally live off of it, so here’s the compromise.

You can just think of it as “fancy spaghetti”.

What you need:

6-8 cups of marinara sauce

6 cups of (uncooked) penne pasta

1/4 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh grated Romano cheese

1 1/2 cups grated motzerella cheese

a dallop of love and patience Whoops. Forgot that last night :(

*Can I just say that it really makes the meal much tastier*

This is simple so don’t be afraid.

Cook the pasta until it is a firm-ish al-dente.  What does that mean?  Not quite cooked.  Like this.

Still chewy but not crunchy.

Drain and put back into the pot.  Stir in the marinara sauce.  Be sure you have plenty of extra sauce in there.  When you bake it, the pasta will continue to cook and absorb the sauce.

Put mixture into a buttered 9×13 baking dish.  Top with the Parmesan and Romano, then the Mozzarella.

Yum.

Bake.  325 degrees for 30 minutes for glass, and 375 degrees for 20 minutes for metal or ceramic dishes.

I was too impatient *see above* to let it brown, but that’s the way  to go.

Make family happy and running for seconds…serve and enjoy.

kids in the fall

heirloom tomato

Tags

crops, gardening, tomato

I have been very discouraged this year with the garden.  Here is the very first heirloom tomato (a Mr. Stripey), off the vines only a few days ago.  I did plant late since we moved and had a baby right in the middle of planting time, but still.  It seems all the blooms went away and never produced a tomato.

Anyways, the canning of sauce I had in mind didn’t quite work out.  Oh, well.  Next, the plan is square foot gardening (of sorts), and lots of compost and vitamins.  I have a feeling the soil had lots to do with the unsuccessfulness.  Since we live in an old mining town, there is leaching and contaminates to consider…which is why we don’t drink the tap water too.

Presently, I am trying to pull myself up by the bootstraps and plant some winter crops.  Area cleared of a huge ugly bush…check. Planter boxes made…ummm, more on this later.

 

a birthday-to-be

This just in…

Gearing up for a special surprise for Mr. Andre’s sixth birthday.  I think it will rock his socks off!  Oh, yes indeed.

rooms of our home: living room

Tags

living room, memories, Porter's, vintage

A particular someone (you know who you are) has asked on more than one occasion for pictures of our new home.  I decided that posting one room a week wouldn’t be overwhelming and would motivate some more cleaning…and how can that be bad?  This is the only room in the house we have painted so far. It’s the only complete room…thanks to the wonderful husband :)

So here’s our living room.  The curtains were made by the last owner, around 1960 from what I can tell of the style and from neighbors.  apparently, she was quite the seamstress.  She also made curtains for her friend across the street, and for another neighbor she re-upholstered a rocking chair.

The door, base and trim, and flooring is all original.  The house was built in 1926.  For a gal who loves everything vintage, this house is so neat to me.  I love that it has a history.  Families were made and raised here, meals from scratch eagerly eaten.  And now we’re here.  Carrying on the same.

Our TV is currently blocking the fireplace.  It seems there were not televisions in 1926 :), so the living room is really not arranged for one.  Windows and built-in shelving take up the usual spaces.  I’m not one for blocking windows.  Blocking the fireplace was bad enough.  There was a moment that I tried to convince Nick we didn’t need a TV…that didn’t work well :)…just so the fireplace wouldn’t get blocked.

We were generously passed down the coffee table and ice-chest-style table and bench.  The rocking chair was Nick’s grandpa’s, which he received as a retirement gift after 25 years (?) serving as a judge.  The Honorable Allen Slaughter…how would you like that for an assigned judge.  He was actually very nice :)

The clock on the mantle was Nick’s great-grandmother’s.  She was the owner of a famous western store in Tucson called Porters.  They made saddles, belts, you everything like that.  I couldn’t find a link for the original store they operated.  What a shame.  But I did find this.  People such as Clark Gable special ordered items from this renowned business.

So here it is, our living room.  There are so many years of history and stories represented, but more importantly, stories we’re making of our own.  Love shared while reading books, playing, knitted gifts to pass down to grandkids, and memories in the making.

butternut squash: baby food

Tags

butternut, homemade baby food, squash

Guess what’s in-season?  Yep.  Butternut squash.  At $1.00/per I went a bit crazy with the organic squash.  Nine were purchased.  Mr. Desmond is not keen on baby cereal, but loves table foods.  And so, the baby food making has begun.  All of the kids have very much enjoyed homemade squash as babes.  I’m sure Des will be no exception.  Here are some tip and instructions for making your own baby food, featuring butternut squash.

Ingredients:

Butternut Squash

Water

Ice cube trays

Directions:

1.  Cut squash lengthwise (make sure you use a very sharp knife).

2.  Scoop out seeds.

3.  Place about 1 cups water in a baking sheet (or 9×13), and arrange squash cut side down.

4.  Bake at 350 for about 45 mins- 1 hour, turning pans once.

5.  Let cool on a rack for about 15 minutes.

6.  Scoop out the squash from the skin with a spoon.

7.  Place in blender or food processor.  Add water.  Blend to desired consistency adding water as needed.

8.  Spoon into ice cube trays, refrigerating left over puree, and freeze filled trays.

9.  Place frozen cubes into a freezer bag.

10.  Repeat step 8-9 until all puree is frozen.

{this moment}

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

apple pie

Tags

apple, crust, dessert, pie

Apple pie seems like one of those staple American desserts to me.  When I think of apples, I think of Autumn.  The memory of exactly how it smells fills my mind.  Around here, we’ve been trying to avoid cracking on the heater.  This has led to some sort of baking or cooking to happen in the oven daily.  Today apple pie was on my mind.

With some Granny Smith’s, molasses (that’s right), and cinnamon laid out on the counter, I got to slicing and mixing.  The recipe I used for the filling couldn’t be simpler.  I followed it from my new favorite cookbook for everything under the sun– The American Women’s Cookbook.  Copyrighted in 1942 (the first in 1938), it has quickly become the most-used book in the house.  I picked it up at an estate sale about a month ago.  Though the cover is in a sad state, the contents are a treasure.

Dutch Apple Pie

Filling:

5-6 apples, sliced

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 cup molasses

 

I opted to use a family recipe for the crust.  The secret isn’t ice water either.

4 cups flour

1 3/4 cups shortening

1 tbs vinegar

1 cup water

1 1/4 tsp salt

1 egg

1 tbs sugar

Mix dry ingredients, cut in shortening.  Mix together wet ingredients.  Add to flour mixture.  Chill for 15 minutes before rolling out.  Makes double (2) crusts.

It really makes enough for 2 pies (top and bottom crusts).

Flaky, flavorful, fabulous.

Have I ever mentioned that this is my favorite season of the year?

 

set sail

The kid’s and I are inching our way through American history, starting with the vikings, and currently pausing on the pioneers.  One last large box has been unpacked and long awaiting this project.

Step aboard the Mayflower.

Kids love playing with boxes, so why not make it educational too.

harvest 2010

Tags

costumes, halloween, harvest

before it passes by

There aren’t many things that make me feel worse than missing out.  I have always enjoyed being right in the middle of whatever happens to be going on.  Over the years I have adjusted to staying home with babies and kids when Nick is out late.  Firm believer in strict bedtime– I am.  I have also grown accustom to not being invited out for coffee…with five kids, and it no longer makes me sad to not be able to go on trips with my husband…because carting around babies during mission trip turns into me babysitting my kids in strange places.  I have grown to love these times with just the kids and I.  We eat things like popcorn and cereal for dinner, and that makes me a cool mom.  And who wouldn’t want that?  It’s the little things though, isn’t it?  I mean, the everyday little things that are often missed out on. Those things are what really bother me.

As I sit here on the couch, wedged in between piles and piles of folded laundry, I realized that I missed out today.  The kids cleaned their rooms, and I cleaned the house (kinda), and did many, many loads of clothes that were in dire need of cleaning.  But I missed it.  I missed having special time with each kid.  I missed interacting with them, and just being plain silly with them.  I hurried them off to bed so I could finish what I started.  We all know that laundry is never-ending so this really made no sense at all.

As I type I hear my moment coming.  After twenty minutes of silence, she is up.  Miss Olivia peeked out of her room, and instead of putting her back in bed, I remembered my missed moments.   And here she sits.  Watching me type in complete silence.  Doing nothing more than wanting to be close to me.  These moments aren’t forever.  I must go and get me some long awaited snuggles and kisses.

shooting bisbee

Tags

arizona, Bisbee, photo shoot, Photography

I have lived here for almost two years.  I have had my awesome camera for almost one.  Yesterday I finally got to do my first shoot of this very photogenic town.  Alone, I might add.   Which is why its taken so long.  I haven’t been alone for all this time.  It was fun, but I feel like I could spend days and thousands of pictures trying to capture all that Bisbee is.

It’s an old mining town with a million stories and hundreds of really neat run-down buildings.  Filled with people of art, country, city, and just about every belief and practice you can imagine.  Being close to the border, it’s swelling with tradition and culture.  Then there are the moderns, the naturals, and most assuredly, the locals that have lived here their whole lives.  It’s unique, weird, cool, pretty, and truly quiet and slow-paced.  It’s our home.

 

warming up

So, we’re in the process of researching pellet stoves.  We have a floor furnace from around the 50s or so.  They are very dangerous.  Stuff can be (purposely) dropped down and catch fire, feet can be burned, shoes can melt…you can understand why we don’t want to use it right?  There’s been more than one crayon and item plopped in the vents during the summer already. :/

Reading reviews while bundled beneath blankets with a jacket and socks on is making me realize I should’ve started about a month ago.  In my defence it was in the mid-seventies here until about a week ago.  It’s kinda like buying a bathing suit in the middle of winter for $5.00.  I can’t see the need to spend the money or make a serious purchase unless the weather is right.

This goes completely against my frugal ways, but I’m being honest here.  A few days ago I was wondering if I would ever need to put the heater on.  Right now I’m cranking up the oven to add some warmth.  Know anything about pellet stoves?  How are you staying warm right now.  I’ve opted for plenty of hot cocoa and down feather throws.  That is, until we are being toasted with a stove.

natural remedies for strep?

Tags

cayenne, sore, strep, throat

Yesterday Isabel came down with what I guess as strep throat.  Fever, headache, throat so sore you can’t swallow anything.  In the past I have gone to the doctor just as quick as possible because, as you may know, nothing gets rid of strep but a long dose of antibiotics…or does it?  I decided to look online this morning for any kind of natural remedy for strep.  After sifting through a few sites, gleaning what I could from each, I made a crazy/risky choice.  I explained what would be done to miss Isa, and she agreed to try the method.

*I’d like to add here that I was very nervous to try this one.  I have read over and over about it and decided it was worth a shot, but if it wasn’t a miracle I would never try it again.

The result was INSTANT relief from ALL pain.  The method?  1/8 tsp cayenne pepper mixed with 8oz of warm water.  Gargle and spit.  Followed up with a warm salt water gargle, and a nice glass of regular water to drink.  I really couldn’t believe what happened.  She said it was spicy, but she gargle twice and that was it.  Andre and Olivia also followed suit for precautionary measures.  We shall repeat this for another day.  That’s a home run remedy if you ask me.

For more testimonials on this AMAZING all natural approach to relieving your sore throats click here.

on the mend and off the needles

Tags

christmas, handmade, hat, knit, scarf

The kids are on the mend.  The projects that have been done for weeks are finally free from loose ends.  Creeping ever closer to completing crafted gifts for my tiny people and more.  The weekend is going to be filled with baking, fellowship and a certain little boy’s party.  How does six years fly by?

How are you doing on your Christmas gifts?  What projects are you planning?  Do share.  I love to reap the benefits of the many talented people and original ideas that are out there.

 

who I am

Tags

answer to life, Bible, God, Jesus, lord, love, peace, truth

In the middle of an everyone’s crying moment (while still wearing my PJ’s– which I still am), caught in the middle of “I’m going to lose it” and “I’m so blessed to have such great children” I was reminded of a story.  I never completely understand why these reminders come at such times, but they often do.  The Lord is so kind and gentle to quietly remind me of, me.

I remembered.

I wasn’t alwayS the “Jesus Freak” that I am now.  No, no, no.  Completely the opposite in fact.  I was a Jesus opposer.  It was the dumbest thing I could think of.  There was certainly no God, and I was convinced.  It’s ironic, really.  Here I am 10.5 years later a pastor’s wife!?:)  I answered a question July 26, 2000.  ”Who do you say that I am?”

Let me explain, before I explain.

I am a nerd.  A big one.  I love to research.  If I wonder about something– How to doorknobs work?  How many people live in Rhode Island?  Why don’t people invent something so toilet covers don’t loosen? ect.–  I find out the answer.  I still don’t know the answer to the last question…anyone?

When I wanted to know the “meaning of life” I researched.  It started out with science, then philosophy, until it ultimately lead to the Bible.  Where better to research than the library right?  I checked out every movie available on the Bible, Jesus, and religion.  I actually watched them.  All 15 or so.  I was still confused.  Maybe even more confused than when I set out.  I did have options about who Jesus was.  A teacher, a prophet, a nice guy who lived long ago, a myth, a fraud.

Then I heard it.  The call to come.  I answered.  Ultimately, I answered the most important question of my life.  I had ideas about what everyone else thought of Jesus, but I had to answer that question for myself.  I answered, “Lord.”

Here’s the story that kept running though my mind today in the middle of a near breakdown.

“And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him: and he asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am? They answering said, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others say, that one of the old prophets is risen again. He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God.”  Luke 9:18-20.

What a gift to know Him for who He is.  These words spoke peace into my heart today.  I hope you are blessed as well.

retired

Tags

favorite, socks

I’m about to blog about something silly, so beware.

I’ve had a realization today that things don’t last forever.  I wish somethings did.  Included are my favorite pair of socks.  There, I said it.  Welcome to the memorial for my socks.  I love them.

Purchased for $2.99 at The Gap in 2004, they came into my life at a critical time.  I was just weeks way from delivering our second child Andre, and just one day away from saying a four-year goodbye to my brother and sister-in-law along with my two (and only at the time) nephews.  The purchase made that October day was, unbeknownst to me, one of the few items of clothing I would ever have such sentimental feelings toward.  Possibly the only.  I love them.

They were there with me for the last four child births, for the very few runs I have done in the last 6 years, and always– without fail– the first pair of socks on my feet when the seasons have changed.  Mostly, they have been a snuggle for my toes for 6 years. Six. Years.  Worn just as soon as they are cleaned, they fit perfectly.  So perfect, in fact, that mending them would make them too small.  I love them

They aren’t the prettiest, the fanciest (though they did used to have white puffy balls on the heel of them), or the warmest socks I own.  They are simply the best.  Never shifting annoyingly throughout the day or twisting off at night.  Faithfully, they have stayed just exactly how I put them on.  Every time.  I lovvve them.

I’ve been wearing them all day.  My heels have been cold all day.  I have wondered if I should keep them in a baby book… all day.  I am ridiculous.  They are so

 

R.I.P

 

very fall-ish

Tags

pellet stove, quadra fire

Today I sit in a very warm house– which is a super good thing because my second favorite pair of socks has been retired as of yesterday.  The babes are sleeping and the kids are reading.  It is silent?!  Outside the wind is about to blow everything but our cement house away.  I’m sure there will be plenty of trash to pick off the fence tomorrow.  Cookies and dinner rolls are cooling on the kitchen counter, and here I am. Available to talk to you sweet readers.  Since last we spoke, this beauty entered our living room.

This is our new Quadra-Fire pellet stove.  We are quite pleased with the results.  I have always loved wood burning stoves, but this is far better.  Less mess, no chopping and splitting, energy and cost efficient.  And just in time for this blustery weather.  Yes, blustery.  Sometimes Winnie the Pooh says it best.

a pirate’s life for him

I have been sitting on some important information here.  Andre, my oldest boy is six years old.  Six. I have no idea how this happens.  One minute their peeing in your face as you’re changing them as quick as possible, the next they’re in school and growing up faster than the weeds in the garden.  Oh, gee.  I am constantly feeling like I’m missing out on them.  I don’t like that.

This little boy decided he wanted a pirate party.  I tried to deliver, right down to the outfit.

I also employed the help of a new friend to make a special cake.

I watch too many cake shows.  I spent the whole day making it.  No, seriously, all day.  Then it was cut up in seconds, and eaten in two days.  This is all that remains.  A few pictures.  I’m just glad he liked it and appreciated the work.  He’s a pretty sweet guy.

 

a narrowed list

I start every Christmas season hoping to make mittens, hats, and scarves for my kids and threes nephews and one niece.  And a pair of socks and a hat for my man.  So far, this hasn’t happened.  This year will be no different.  I’m thinking a hat or scarf and one sewn gift is all I can realisticly pull off.  As for the mittens…well, I’m still too scared to try thumbs on a deadline.  Socks?  Did I actually say I would do that?  That’s even scarier.

I have only completed two kids worth of knitting and no sewing projects.  I will not lose heart though.  Where there’s a will there’s a way…right?

Today is the day I dust off the old sewing machine and start putting some miles on it.  Be looking for progress reports.  Now that I said it out loud, I’m held  to my word.

all you need is a little patience

Tags

child-rearing, duggars, love, patience

Sickness struck our house a couple of weeks ago.  Nothing too bad, just some long-lasting colds. Sickness usually means very irritable kids, which in turn leads to much quarrelling and a general unhappy atmosphere.  To avoid all the arguments I go against my belief that they shouldn’t watch much TV.  When they’re sick they basically watch TV all day.  It’s bad, I know, that why I try to pick shows for them to watch that are actually good for them to see.  Veggie Tales, Leave it to Beaver and Dora the Explorer are the go-to picks.

Recently, they have discovered that they love to watch the Duggars.  What?   You don’t know the Duggars?  They’re a family of twenty.  A reality show into they’re lives.  Yeah, and you thought you had your hands full.  18 Kids and Counting has been playing episode after episode in our house.  We’ve gone through two seasons already.

Why am I talking about this?  Well, for one thing they are a Christian family (Baptist I believe), and they home school.  I think it’s good for the kids to see we’re not the only ones.  While they are a bit more legalistic then we are in they’re convictions, I really appreciate them showing the world what it is to live for and love God.

What strikes me about this family is that the mom (Michelle) is so patient and kind in everything she does.  Not only does she always praise her husband when the interviewer tries to subtly imply he’s a goof, but I have never once heard her raise her voice or make an angry or disapproving face to her children.  In turn, the children do not act that way to each other or their parents.  All 18 of them are well-behaved, kind, and practice self-control.  They show spiritual maturity to boot.

Amazing right?  Some days I feel like me and the five I have are holding on by a thread.  I have heard– and believe– that the women sets the tone of the household.  I was o encouraged and stirred up by this TV mom’s example of a Proverbs 31 women.   I realized the need for this change in our home. After all, I never hear the voice of my Lord yelling at me, scolding me, making me feel like he doesn’t approve of me.  I don’t see in my mind an image of Jesus crossing his arms and giving me the stink-eye every time I say or do something unpleasing.  Or every time I talk when I should listen, interrupt, leave the house messy…you get the picture.

Rather, I hear a gentle whisper of correction, I feel a loving embrace.  I see– through scripture– a picture of a gentle presence.  I love him because he loves me.  No matter what I do or say or think, I know that I am safe in his arms.  I am not afraid to come to Him.  I know there is correction to come, but I know I’m forgiven before I’m embraced.

I have been dwelling on these thoughts for days.  As a parent, I think we all want what is best for our children.  I know that as for me, I do the things which I ought not, and don’t do the things I should, all too often.  Lord change me from the inside, out.  I want my kids to know by my actions and words and body language, and expressions just how much I love them.  No matter what they do or say, children should always feel safe in a motherly embrace.

We imitate those we love most.  Let us be imitators of Christ.

great granola

Tags

breakfast, cereal, granola

I found the yummiest recipe for granola.  Nick loves it too, and he’s not a granola fan usually.  The best part is that it’s very filling.  Cereal is never filling, but this truly keeps you full until lunch.  I made a quaduple batch, last time the double didn’t last long enough for us.  I love this recipe because it has plenty of balance.  Grain, fruit, nuts, a little honey and oil.  The coconut is the perfect touch.

too fast

It keeps happening.  My baby is growing too fast.  I’m excited for every milestone, but deep within I’m sad.  I’m savoring the little things while they last.

cables, cables

Tags

cables, hats, knit hats, knitting

I have finally dove into a knitting fear– cables!  I have conquered this fear quite swiftly.  They were certainly nothing to worry about.  With needles in hand and yarn in tote…more presents are sure to be bound off soon :)

warm bum

Tags

cover, diaper, knit, soaker, wool soaker

Desmond took up some time from Christmas knitting.  Having enough diaper covers is sort of important.  Another Curly Purly made it’s way to the top of the to-make list.

I really love soakers.  They’re amazing, really.

{this moment}

Tags

doll, sew dol, sewing

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Christmas prep

There is a busy rustling around our tiny house.  Busy with baking and sewing, and most assuredly, knitting.  Babes are being cuddled and rocked in between children rushing around with Christmas excitement.

While I was mixing up some pie crust I noticed one child in particular going into her room with what seemed to be an enormous amount of construction paper.  In and out of the kitchen she went.  Then came scissors and tape.  That had me a bit more concerned.  I finally asked her what she was doing, to which she simply replied, “Christmas decorating.”

Many thoughts ran through my head.  Instead of telling her the usual “No scissors and tape in the room”  I decided I’d finish my own work before I checked in on her.  I am so glad I did.  We do our best to talk so much more of Jesus during this time than anything else.  I love to see their sweet hearts during this time.  While  many kids are thinking of what they can get for Christmas, mostly our children are giving.  Just the other day Andre and Isabel took their money with them to the store ready to buy something when they both decided to give the Salvation Army bell ringers.  Between the two they gave $2.25.  Isabel also gave $2 to a homeless person on the corner.

I am so proud to be their mama.  They are wonderful and kind little ones.  I have much to learn from them.  Remember the meaning of Christmas.  Love.  In all definitions.

I actually sewed…dolls

After what seemed like a year…I sewed.  Yay!  For the sweet little girls in my life…

Just a few more days to get all the sewing and knitting done…not to mention goodies for the neighbors.  Wishing you a wonderful, warm, and productive couple of days.  See you Friday with the last of the gifts and a special post.

You can do it.  Post your Handmade Christmas updates in the comments below.  Happy Crafting!

a late Christmas round up

Here are the last of the Christmas gifts.

Whew!  Made it.  Now for some indulgent knitting and sewing from my Christmas presents…

Oh, I made a turkey dinner all by myself too.  It was tender and juicy.  Yay!

wintery

Tags

home school, knitting, reading, winter

After weeks of seeing other blogs happily (and some not so happily) post pictures of wintery days, I can finally do the same.  Just yesterday I was wondering if it would ever look and feel like winter.  Highs were in the low 70s, lows in the 40s.  The yard was filled with birds hopping all around and the air was singing choruses of chirpping.  It was then that I realized where the birds fly “south for the winter”– here.

I’m not saying I completely love a frozen nose and chattering teeth, but to experience every season in it’s fullest makes the year more rhythmic.  This is my baking season.  Who doesn’t love the smell of baked goods lingering as the fire roars.  As much as we “slack off” of our lessons in the fall and summer, we more than make up for in the winter.  Long cold days call for much reading and learning here.  Cuddling under a blanket and discovering things we never knew about the human body, and diving into a world before electricity as we read about Benjamin Franklin has been our ventures this week.

Looking out the old wooden windows today has my thoughts turning towards cocoa and knitting.  Oh, knitting.  How I love thee on a cold winters’ day.  Can’t we all just be bears and hibernate?  It is so hard to get dressed during winter.  Pajamas are far too comfy and warm.  Our first snow is for-casted for tonight.  I have my reservations, but certainly my hope as well.

learning to sew…kids

Tags

kid sewing, sachet, sewing

Miss Isabel receievd a sewing kit from grandma over the holidays.  She is busy hand sewing her first projects.  Sachets.  It blesses a mama’s heart when her little ones want to do just exactly what she does.

another wool hat

Tags

cabled hat, cascades 220 wool yarn, knit hat, knitting, ravelry, tiny cables

I am so loving getting over the fear of knitting cables.  In fact, I made this hat just because I wanted to knit more cables.  Here is Desmond’s finished hat.  The pattern is improvised using a 2 cable technique.  The yarn is the lovely Cascades 220 wool, left over from the soaker I made for him not long ago.  More details on Ravelry.

Two more cabled hats are on needles.  Prepare to see lots of twisted caps coming your way.

saying goodbye

Tags

dog, Scout

Today we said goodbye our dog Scout.  Since we’ve moved here eight months ago, she has not had the life we’ve wanted to give her.  I am so glad we found her a great home with a big yard and two other dogs to play with.  I am glad that she’s going to an owner who takes her dogs to the park everyday.  That’s what she needs.

When we named Scout (To Kill a Mocking Bird is one of my favorite books), we didn’t realize how much she would truly live up to her name.  She loved going for run with Nick while “scouting” ahead to make sure all was safe.  We quickly found that our rescued pup was the dog we’ve always wanted, but never had.  Scout is the sweetest, goofiest, protective, and let-it-be-know FASTEST dog.  Have you ever seen Seabiscuit?  It’s like that.  Once you unleash her an unforeseen amount of speed is obtained.  It’s a wonder to behold.  I’m sure the dog catcher has a personal vendetta against her.  He even tried the dart gun (which was told to me by someone who was trying to help catch her).  She’s a fraidy-cat and would never get close enough to a stranger for that to work.  And she’s super fast– have I mentioned that yet?  Since our local dog catcher is a short round little man, there’s just no way.  I’m pretty sure that would be one of the funniest things to watch though.

Why would the dog catcher even know Scout that well?  You see, she’s the Houdini of all dogs.  This is why it just hasn’t worked for her here.  Our Scout is a runner.  No dog I’ve ever seen or heard of can run like her.  I’m not exaggerating.  She simply needs a good run too.  Our tiny yard is not for her.  We knew this when we moved.  Since we’re only a block away from the park we committed to taking her for a walk every day.  Sadly, our intentions were far better than execution.  So, she has broken out of every inch of our yard (which is completely fenced-in).  Don’t even ask– we have tried that.  Yup, we tried that too.  Yeah, we did that also.  Trust me.  It’s been done.  Scout is Houdini.  Not kidding.  Scout was chained– which unlike Houdini she couldn’t get out of– and that’s no life for a dog.  Especially a dog we love so very much.  She’s also a chicken eater, which made it impossible for us to just let her “run” each day.

Scout will not be fenced or leashed.  She’s a free-spirit.

We’d been praying and talking about this with the kids for several months, and there were some tears when it came time, but we each agreed completely that it was best for Scout.  One request was made– a last picture with Scout.  I am so sad.  I really loved that dorky quirky, sweet, aggravating, afraid of cameras, fast, loving, liked to herd my children into playing with her, fast, chicken eating, nose nudging, sit on your foot because she wanted to be as close as possible, tore a hole in my new rug, lay in your lap, farter of death, gentlest licker, fast, so very tender,  wriggly, smart, protecting, Houdini of a dog.  Goodbye Scout.  I really loved when you just put your head on my lap and looked at me.  I hope you love your new family.  I’m never watching Marley and Me again. *real tears*

a new trick

Tags

baby faces, baby funny face

Mr. Desmond has been making us all giggle these last few days.  He has discovered a fun new noise.  I cannot remember any of the other kids doing this noise with such style.  It’s quite funny.  Especially the face that come with it.  I love this kid.

{this moment}

Tags

Photography, play

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

planning

Tags

home school, lesson plan, planning

It is offically becoming a yearly event.  Planning out the rest of the school year in January.  Doing this any time sooner doesn’t work.  I planned the year out already, and we have not come close to being “on-schedule”.  Summer and Spring and even Fall here are much to warm and fun to be inside doing work.  Winter is the season we get the most done on a regular basis.  So, that’s what I’m busy doing today.  Seeing how far behind our fun has gotten us.  This is best done with at least two erasers and a big hunk o’ chocolate. for security.  No fears though.

 

 

one teacher, lots of books, and sadly…dirty looks

Tags

encouragemnet, home school, homeschooling

As we have been implementing a regular learning schedule here, there has been resistance.  I won’t name names.  That’s not fair.  I will say that this resistance has been a learning experience for me.  I didn’t really want to learn these things about myself, but I did.  I learned that when for the umpteenth time a child drops a pencil or sticks it up the nose or in ears, I can be heard plea-shouting, “Please do not stick pencils in any orphases again!”  Honestly, What’s the fascination with that?

I also learned that having everything planned out is very good for everyone.  We can’t give up for the day because there’s a schedule to stick to.  A strict schedule must be adhered to if we are to enjoy the summer warmth outdoors.  I’m thankful I was able to complete the lesson plans.  Chocolate does so much for me, I can’t even tell you!

I’m also thankful to teach my children (no matter how many pencils drop).  I love to see the wonder in their eyes when they learn something amazing.  I love to see the curiosity during a science experiment.  I absolutely love when they relay the information they learn to other people…and teach them something.  I love homeschooling my children.  I truly do.  There are ups and downs, there are steps backwards, but there is an incredible amount of achievement and joy for everyone.  We have endless opportunities here to be knit closer together because of it.  And, we all know how much I love knitting.

Three chairs and two pencils up (off that darn floor) for homeschooling!  We shall finish this marathon together.  Be encouraged, you can do it too.

Lesson plans template for you to enjoy.

four hats are better than one

Tags

cables, elf hat, knit hat, knitting, last minute knitted gifts

Back when I first started knitting, I knit one project at a time.

Today I have no less than four hats going.  This is what happens when you learn cables, buy three knitting books, new needles, and a box of yarn arrives from Smiley’s.  Too much excitement at once leads to projects on all available round needles…and double points alike.

Two other hat are completed.  This is an improvised cable hat using six cables.

*Side note*  Getting a six-year-old to pose still for a picture is nearly impossible.  Sorry for the blur of a hat :)

 

Josie’s Pointed Elf Hat is from and new and very much-loved book I got for Christmas…More Last Minute Knitted Gifts.  An excellent book for beginners and the seasoned knitter.

Pretend her face is clean…cute hat huh?  It was a breeze to make.  It took around 2 hours.  She is loving it too.  She doesn’t love many things either.  Food and this hat is all for today :)

Have a great weekend.  I’m off to knit up the other four hats.  And somehow find the motivation for everything else.

weekend knits

It seems I’m on a knitting rampage lately.  Here are finished projects from the weekend.

The in-limbo project basket is a little less full, and a house full of sick kids and movie watching means more knitting.  All project details can be found on Ravelry.

the last elf

Tags

hat, knit, knitting, more last minute knitted gifts, pointy elf hat

This pattern is so easy.  I can do one in just a few hours.  So, when all the girls wanted one, I got to knitting.  Here is the last Pointy Elf Hat.  Smiley’s Yarn is where I get much of my stash from.  This Rowan bulky wool was only 2.99!

resting well

Tags

games for kids, natural remedies, sick

Though the weather is in the high 60s to low 70s, sickness struck us anyhow.  We are doing our best to rest well, and enjoy each other through the grumpiness that sickness brings.  This last year we have been trying a more natural approach to getting well, instead of rushing off to the doctor all the time.  So far, the results are relatively the same, only less chemical and more God-created medicine. Rest, water and vitamin C are the best prevention and cure for all that’s been ailing us.

Games are good too.  This one is great because all four kiddies can play together…that’s rare…and fun.

grandma’s favorite knit hat

Tags

favorite knit hat, hat of choice, knit hat, knitting, soulemama

The last of many hats I couldn’t help but make while sitting on the couch nursing, holding, reading to, or something else with sick children for the last few days.  This is the Hat of Choice.  Ravelry details here.

{this moment}

Tags

Photography

Sadly, she pays a lot of attention to what goes on in our town.  I new game emerged today.  Today they were playing “homeless”.  I don’t know whether to laugh, cry, or keep her indoors for all eternity.

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

 

{picture by Nick}

the battles

Tags

child-rearing, faith

Around here we are in yet another of those constantly changing phases in child-rearing.  It’s been somewhat of a battle. More and more phrases such as “I want…”, “I can’t…”, “Why do I have to…” are being said.  As we talk and assess the issues, the realizaton that all this is completely my fault starts to come to fruition.

In motherhood, I want what’s best for my children.  I want them to make good, great, even perfect decisions.  I envision a household full of love warmth, attentiveness, cleanliness, order, godliness, encouragement and fun.  I want to create a relationship with my children that is open enough for them to come to me for anything– even admittence of mistakes, yet maintain authority so they don’t become uncivilzed kids (Lord of the Flies).  I am trying to maintain a hope and goal of perfect parenting.

Although I understand this is an impossible, unattainable thought, I can’t help but have it.  What I have been struggling with in this house is loosing battles.  What battles are worth fighting and which are not?  Is making the bed in a timely fashion something to hold them to, or is not important right now?

I realize that I don’t want every part of every day to be about control.  Eat faster, get dressed, do your school work, hurry up, look at your paper, time to eat, hurry up and finish, go potty, get ready for quiet time, pick up your toys, put your clothes away, time for dinner, finish up, do your kitchen chores, get ready for bed, hurry up so we can pray, give me a kiss, go to bed, stay in bed, don’t come out of your room….and around and around we go.

If I were them I’d be fighting against me too.  The constant burgage of requests and duties doesn’t seem fair.  I don’t like hearing myself talk day after day.  However, how do I teach them responsibility if they have no responsibilities?  *head is now spinning out-of-control*

More than making beds, more than doing things faster, more than getting it all done, I want them to love.  I want them to love each other, to love others, and mostly to love Jesus.  That’s what’s important to me.  Nick has been saying to them “I think you need to learn to say these three things more.  ’Thank you’, ‘I’m sorry’, and ‘I love you’.”

As a parent we all know that our little ones are repeaters.  They repeat what we say and do.  I guess that means I have to go first. Tomorrow I will lead by example…

Thank you– for being such helpful and fun kids, for teaching me what forgiveness is by forgiving me so wholly.  Thank you for hugging me for no reason, for wanting to spend so much time with me, for flattering me when I wear anything that isn’t pajamas, for missing me when I’m gone for 30 minutes, for telling me you love me at random and unexpected times, for saying I’m the best mom.  Thank you for being truthful about every thought you have.

I’m sorry–  For rushing you through every day, for getting frustrated because you don’t do everything perfectly, for raising my voice and hurting your feelings, for being uptight and no fun most of the day, for not letting you make enough mess, for expecting too much too soon, for failing to teach you by trying to control you, for trying for conform you instead of cultivate you.  I’m sorry for not letting you make mistakes.

I Love you–  so much.  I love you no matter what you do or say, all the time, completely, enough to trust you more, in a way that makes me want to protect you from everything.  I love you, and because I love you I want you to have a long and happy childhood.  I loved you the second I felt your tiny body moving inside me, and I won’t ever stop.  I love you so much it hurts.

I pray these words will be unforgettable to them.  I know they will keep me accountable.  Humility is a learned and honorable possession. I have much to learn.  As always they are continuously teaching me more daily than all the curriculum I can shove into them yearly.  What a blessing and honor to watch a child become a person.  Tomorrow is a new day, and for that I am grateful.

 

“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.”

Lamentations 3:22-23

 

a fit of knit

As of late, all the crafting I want to do it spent on the couch, in the car, and seating in the school room.  Desmond has very little choice in what he wears, so I take advantage of this as much as possible.  For my tiny one the Pebble.

A Big Lace Scarf for my sweet Sis-in-law.

A cabled baby hat…

…and even more on the needles.

free day

Tags

break, kids, tea time

Even kids need a day off.  And, me. Well, if your children were playing imaginatively and collectively, and cooperatively, would you interrupt them?  Today school’s on hold.  I’m at peace with that.  After all, public school here was out for a week due to frozen and busted pipes.  We kept going.  A day here and there will suit our schedule just fine.  Isabel has been quite the hostess for her sibling today.  First tea, than entertainment.  What shall we see next?

Meanwhile, I’m blogging, knitting, reading my Bible, and listening to happy kids chatter and play in the background.  I most certainly will not even peek in again for fear it will all come to an end.  I am thankful for mornings like these.  Rare as they be, they are treasured.

a scary endeavor

Tags

fair isle, goals, knitting, sock knitting, zimmerman

I have some knitting goals for the year.  As a housewife who has a seemingly unusual amount of creative energy (and not nearly as much of the cleaning energy), I am venturing out of the hat, scarf, and simple baby sweater type of knitting.  Do you want to know what’s on the list?  Here it is in no particular order:

1) socks– these have scared the tar out of me thus far, but it’s time to grab some itty-bitty needles and cast on.

2) mittens– like socks, but a little less intimidating.

3) Nick knits–  I’ve only made the guy 1 hat, which was recently given away for a good cause.  He needs some yarn love.

4) A shawl– a lacy shawl…for me.

5) A Zimmerman– I have no particular one in mind.  I just know that if an artist had a chance to paint with Monet, he would.  Such would a knitter with a Zimmerman pattern.  It’s like a right of passage in my eyes.  More about Elizabeth Zimmerman can be found here.

6) Colorwork– Fair Isle needs a chance on my needles.

So that’s that.  I’m expecting this post will keep me accountable to these goals.  Just so you don’t think I’m a complete whack, let me just say that many of these goals will be combined in one project.  In example: A pair of fair isle mittens using a EZ pattern for…Nick?  Well, maybe not for Nick.  He’s not a mitten kinda guy.  He’s rarely a glove guy as far as hands are concerned.  Ha!

Happy knitting all!  Please join in if you so wish.  Leave your updates and blog links in the comments box.

 

 

Happy Valentine’s Day

of chickens and veggies

Tags

gardening, raising chickens

It has been in the beautiful 70s here.  As far as weather goes, spring gets me motivated like no other season.  Once again I find myself hitting the books (or in this case the online resources).  This year we are planning on using the square foot gardening method.  After two years of little and no crops, I am taking a pro-active and calculated approach to growing food.  I can’t wait to enjoy an abundance of organically grown fruits and veggies, not to mention an array of herbs and flowers.

My most gracious husband has also agreed to a small flock of chicks.  I just love fresh eggs.  And, depending on my level of courage…possible never-ending meat.  We will be feverishly preparing for the arrival of our spring chickens from now until mid March.  What adventure!  What are you preparing for now?  Food?  Chickens?  Crafts?  Babies?  Do tell…

Happy Tuesday to you and yours.

staying organized

Tags

cleaning schedule, organization

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard the words, “I don’t know how you do it all”.  In all honesty, I definitely don’t do “it all”, but what I do get done only happens with organization of time and thoughts.  I have been doing my darndest to stick to this checklist these last couple of months.  I found the sheet on Word and modified it to fit my needs.  Here is my version for any of you who are interest.  You also can change it around as you see fit.

cleaning schedule

 

garden beds

Tags

raised garden, raised planters, square foot garden

Yard projects are fun.  No?  This weekend our family made some raised garden beds.  I’ll be honest.  It was pretty much Nick and I after this picture what taken.  Even though the wind was out-of-control, it was a good day of hard labor.  No, I didn’t pop out another kid silly.  You know, the kinda work that leaves your muscles sore the next day.  It’s satisfying to work that hard.

 

Now, as soon as the wind lets up I’ll finish planting the seedlings.  I can’t stop staring at these beauties.  The tutorial for making your own raised flower/garden beds can be found at The Pioneer Women.  I love her.  For so many reasons.  I also love that I was able to fit eighteen 2x6x8 foot boards into our mini van…along with five kids.  That’s an accomplishment.

i love fabric

Tags

Amy Butler fabric, sewing, table cloth

I love fabric.  Especially designer fabric.  What?  You don’t know what designer fabric is?  Click here, here, or here for a taste of what you’re missing.  Not only do I fall in love with the prints, I also have to say the quality of the material far exceeds that of the national chain stores.  Here is a much-needed table cloth I whipped up today during our schooling (a wonderful benefit to having an all-in-one school/craft room).  It’s laminated fabric from Amy Butler.

Now we have protection and ease of clean in a tolerable– nay– beautiful print.  Have I ever told you how much I love damask and paisley?  I am drawn to both like a bee to pollen.

{this moment}

Tags

americaunas, chicks, raising chickens

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

changes for health

Tags

frugality, organic gardening, self-suffientcy

I have been watching lots of documentaries lately.  Three of those were food related.  Food Inc., Food Matters, and The Future of Food.  Long story short, we are currently in the process (a long one at that) of becoming self-sufficient for our food.  Nick watched them also, which took convictions I had from desires to actions.  If we agree on something it’s as good as done in little to no time.  I love that about us.  We need to know where our food is coming from, and we need it to be cost-efficient.  Buying completely organic food is not feasible for us.

It occurred to me that I was aimlessly and ignorantly eating things without even considering what exactly it was, where it came from, who made it, and how nutritional is it really. Those days are coming to an end.  With the garden beds erected, and the seeds sown, we’re on our way.

Please consider, our yard is as tiny as it can be.  Extensive research, planning, and organization is going into our plot of land.  I am guessing that we have less than 1/10 of an acre, which is why I have been reading The Backyard Homestead with enthusiasm.  As of now we are focusing on veggies, fruits and eggs (hence the chicks).  Here’s my very bad drawing of our plans.

How many of you are planning gardens this year?  What will you be growing, and how many people are you feeding?  Check out this wonderful website Path to Freedom to see how you too can use a small space for a big change.  Happy growing!

 

 

a penny saved, a penny earned

Tags

Beekeeping, gardening, Handmade body care, handmade soap, homemade lip balm, raising chickens, soap making, urban homesteading

Making healthier choices is the focus here.  Since I’m a total nerd, I have been spending hours of my child-free and child-napping time doing LOTS of research.  What for you say?  For saving our household some mullah, that’s what for.  You may have read the last post on ways I save money every month/year.  In addition to what we’ve already been doing, I decided to get serious about what our money is doing for us, and what we are doing with it.  Nick and I have strong convictions about being good stewards of the income that has been provided for us. Colossians 3:23 Matthew 25:20-21 Proverbs 22:7  Proverbs 10:4 Matthew 6:24

We are constantly re-evaluating how we can save more, give more (to others), learn new trades and skills, earn extra income from home, and how we can make better use of what we have. Recently, health has landed on the top of our priority list.  With our family of seven, it’s important for us to be as healthy as we can be so we are free to serve Jesus and home school steadily.

Here’s the plan I came up with to help serve my family, and to make use of each project for home school learning.  In each category I specified what the kids can learn, aside from general responsibility and life lessons.

Organic Gardening

Garden benefits Produce 90% of produce in three years, organic, our choice of variety, landscapes the yard, can make food gift (jams, pies, ect), fills our bellies :)

Learning: Plant biology in-depth, canning, freezing, drying methods, cooking (with the harvest)

Currently spending: $80/mon on organic produce

Start up costs: Raised beds, seeds, soil, plants/bushes, trees (2), tools, books= $300.00

Yearly costs after 1st year: fertilizers, new plants/bushes, new seed=$250 or less– I haven’t learned all there is to seed saving yet, but I plan to.  This includes watering.

Savings 1st year= $560

Saving after 1st year= $710

More info on gardening can be found at Organic Gardening, Urban Homesteading, Earth Friendly Gardening, How to Grow a Garden

Galatians 6:9 “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

 

Beekeeping (Yeah, I’m serious)

Benefits: Thriving garden, gallons of honey for allergy control and baking sweetener (to replace sugar), beeswax for lip balm and salves, ability to sell extra honey for profit, very little work involved.

Learning:  ecosystems, biology, measuring (at harvest), small business functions, life cycles

Currently spending $30/mons on local honey

Start up costs: Hive, bees, equipment= $200

Yearly costs to maintain= $20 or less (for smoker fuel)

Savings 1st year= $160

Savings after 1st year= $340

*can sell to make profit*

More info: Backyard Beekeeping, Basic Beekeeping, Urban Beekeeping

Proverbs 16:24 “Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.”

 

Homemade natural soaps shampoo, hand soap, shaving soap, laundry soap

Benefits: No more skin irritations, fun/creative outlet, very frugal gifts for…anyone, very little time involved, can sell for profit

Learning:  Measuring, chemistry, fractions (cutting), small business functions

Currently spending $10/mon on NON-organic/natural soaps

Start up costs- books, supplies= $60

Yearly costs (supplies)= $50 or less (each batch makes LOTS of soap)

Saving 1st year= $60…More if you count the gift you won’t buy

Saving after 1st year= $70…more if you count all the gifts you won’t buy

*can sell for profit*

More info:  Miller Soap Cranberry Lane, Soap Making Essentials

 

Homemade toothpaste

Benefits:  No chemicals/all natural, waste-though not encouraged is not as big of a deal, no fluoride or abrasive ingredients, one toothpaste for everyone (even Des)

Learning:  Mixing, measuring

Currently spending $7/ month on  2 types of toothpaste

Start up costs= $10 (enough for the whole year)

Yearly cost $10

Savings $74

More info:  Lusa Organics

Homemade Lip balm/ lip stick

Benefits:  Organic/natural, will not irritate my sensitive lips, can sell for profit

Learning:  Cooking, measuring, small business functions

Currently spending $40/year on natural lip balm (not including lip stick)

Start up cost= $20 (to include making colored lip stick as well)

Savings 1st year= $20

Saving after 1st year= $30 or more if I use the beeswax from our hive

*can sell for profit*

More info:  The Ponte Verda Soap Shop, Eco Friendly Daily

 

Handmade Diaper Cream/Salves and ointments

Benefits: Organic/natural, great healing formulas, can sell for profit

Learning:  Measuring, basic math skills, following recipes/directions, packaging, herbal healing

Currently spending $7/ month diaper creams and ointment (for cuts ect.)

Start up costs-jars, ingredients= $10

Savings/ year= $74

*can sell for profit*

More info: Passionate Homemaker, The Ponte Verda Soap Shop

Proverbs 27:9 “Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man’s friend by hearty counsel.”

 

Poultry Raising

Benefits:  Organic eggs, garden pest control (they eat bugs), composting food scraps (they eat, they poop, I fertilize), emergency meat source, can sell eggs for profit.

Learning:  ecosystems, biology, composting, life cycles, into to building (coop repairs, fencing)

Currently spending $4 on organic or fresh eggs (we go through about 2.5 doz/week)=$432/year

Start up costs- ours are few due to borrowed chick feeder/waterer, brooding lamp, and a free coop.  Chicks (10), feed, fencing=$48

Costs/year- feed, coop maintainence = $240 or less (this is assuming an all feed diet)

Savings in 1st year $144

Saving after 1st year $192

*can sell extra eggs for profit*

More info on raising chickens can be found at Backyard Chickens, Poultry One, and because I laughed aloud City Chickens

 

And that’s a grand total of $1092 saved in the first year and $1490 saved after the first year.  Not to mention that some of these can be self-funding in two years or less thus actually making money on top of saving it.  I love saving money.

I realize that this is more work (especially the garden and chickens- which needs daily care and watering), but c’mon…It’s worth it for that much money saved and that much increase to overall health right?  I’m always willing to work more for the health and frugality of our household.

And you?  What are ways you save money on your bills?

 

 

 

 

 

Snow

Tags

snow, winter

It doesn’t snow much here in the southern part of the state (obviously), but when it does you better bust out the camera quick.  It melts within hours.  I waited a bit too long to take this shot.  People were seen in their yard trying to make snow men out of this.  I chuckled to myself.  They would be better off making mud pies.  I do understand the excitement though.  It’s rare and short-lasting.  The snow, that is.

This was taken on Sunday.  Today it’s 71 degrees and sunny, and the door is open letting in a nice breeze.  I have learned to like this weather.  Short winters and long springs and summer are very enjoyable.  Kids play, birds chirp and dance, I knit…it’s all good.  Bring on the spring!

Curtains

Tags

curtains, sewing

Curtains are good.  I like privacy, and they add color to an otherwise all white room.  These were sewn Saturday.  I love how the fabric matches my old little house.  They look like they could have been hanging there for decades.  I can’t express how much I love anything that looks or actually is vintage.  I just do.

{this moment}

Tags

help, soule mama, this moment

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

*** *** ***

Inspired by SouleMama

 

four and fabulous

Tags

bento box, birthday, garden, kids, raising chickens

Sunday a little someone turned four.  She enjoyed her woodland garden party, and her friends and family.  Miss Olivia is a girly girl.  She cracks me up with her sweet little smiles as people sing to her.  It’s like she’s receiving a Grammy.  She puts on the face, pretending she’s shy, sweetly thanking everyone for showing up to her party.  What a silly little nut.  I love her.  The Decor can be found at Bird’s Party.  The toadstool tutorials were found here.  It was lovely and fun.  In lieu of party bags everyone got to plant and take home a flower for their own gardens.

And who could resist checking out the chicks at the party?

What a wonderful day to turn four.

blueberry granola pancakes

Tags

breakfast, granola, pancakes

I was recently inspired by a visit to a local breakfast spot.  The kids got blueberry granola pancakes.  They looked really good, though I didn’t get a bite (which I’m guessing means they definitely were good).  Anyways, we had granola and blueberries and our favorite pancake mix.  I simply plopped on some blueberries and sprinkled on some granola, and a new favorite was enjoyed by all.

Mmmm.

the awkward teen years

Tags

raising chickens

The chickens are currently going through their weird and awkward stages.  You remember those right?  I’m sure you looked great.  I didn’t.  They are looking a little funky too.  Still cute, but half-developed and fluffier and though they’re girls, they are trying to find their voices.  It’s between a squawk and a cheep.

Just a few more months and these little feathery big-footed chick will be a laying some beautiful blue/green eggs.  They’re growing so quickly.

she pays attention

Tags

drawing, farm

With all the talk of gardens, and chickens, and bees (oh my!), Miss Isabel has picked up on a little dream of mine.  Maybe it was seeing a stack of books on the shelf, or listening in on some mama/daddy conversations.  The point is, she drew a picture of our future farm.  She is a sweetie.  ”Look Mom, I drew our farm.”

{this moment}

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Inspired by SouleMama.

 

vintage baseball

Tags

baseball, family, vintage

To celebrate the wonderful Husband’s birthday, we packed up the crew and walked over to the oldest ballpark in America.  It just so happens to be right around the corner.  The 2nd Annual Copper City Classic was so awesome.  Next year I’m inviting people to see how great it is.  The Warren Ball Park opened in 1909 and has been running ever since. The Vintage Baseball games are played using the old rules, gear, and uniforms.  How cool is that?  I’m not a huge fan of watching sports, but I do like baseball.  And vintage baseball?  Well, that’s even better.  The Boys and Girls Club hosted races for the kids between games.  Andre and Olivia won their age group races and Isabel came in second.  A proud daddy saw it all from the stands.  What a fun day!  I see a family tradition in the future.

hair bows galore

Some changes are gong on at Nick’s  job.  Soon, he will be switching to church and side jobs instead of his current salary pay.  So, I felt it was my duty to try to help bring in some revenue.  During the last couple of days I have been a bow-making machine.  Seriously. So far…122 hair bows.  That’s a lot.  I am gearing up to sell some at our local Farmer’s Market in April.  It will be a bit more quiet here this week as I use up all my extra time in this endeavor.

For all you stay-at-homers…what are some ways you bring extra $$ into your household?  I’m all for ideas.  Until then…pass the ribbon.

Happy Spring week to you all.  I hope to be sharing some gardening updates with you next week.  Yay!  There’s a chicken update soon to come as well.  Sheesh.  I guess we’re sorta busy.  It’s a good busy though :)

vintage kitchen

Tags

food, vintage

I have accquirred and borrowed a few more vintage kitchen items this month.  A neighbor who was moving gave me this.

Her mother used it.  I love knowing this mama made her four children yummy food using this beautiful hand-powered kitchen appliance.  I am sad to see them go though.  My loving neighbor was raised that home from the time she was two years old.  I shall think of them everytime I make scalloped potatoes.  Which I made twice last week :)

I also borrowed mom-in-law’s juicer.  It was her grandmother’s!  It worked great, but it wasn’t fun to clean.

all cooped up

It’s finally done!  Thanks to the voluntary help of a wonderful and talented friend, and re-purposed and thriftily purchased materials.  The chickens are enjoying their new home, we’re enjoying a chicken-poop-free porch.  My pansies and calendula will RIP.  I didn’t see that one coming :(  In our tiny yard free-ranging wasn’t working out.  I didn’t enjoy being that lady who chased her escaped chicken down the road with five kids in tote.

I think they’ll be quite content with their own space.  After all, they are chickens.  They really only need food, water, and and shelter…granted.  You spoiled girls can feel free to start laying soon :)

a trip to our favorite ranch

Tags

horses, ranch fun

In just two years we have made some wonderful friends here.  One couple in particular has a ranch…which happens to be the kids’ favorite house to visit.  It’s the rural equivalent to Disneyland, I’d say.  Horses, goats, chickens, a real horse cart (what a horse and buggy ride?  Yep!), a gas-powered remote airplane (the husband is a pilot), a swimming pool, golf cart, art supplies and small weaving machine (wife is a recognized artist and fiber arts guild member) the list really goes on.  My friend and I share many of the same interests, and since she has many years experience in such things as gardening and raising chickens in this area, she has quickly become more than a wonderful friend.  She is my go-to source for questions on said subjects.

All this coupled with hospitality and the thread of love in Jesus that binds us together, also makes it one of my favorite places to go as well.  There is something to be said for two women who love the Lord and the same hobbies.  A rarity indeed.  I can count the people I feel this connected to who I can also laugh or cry with.  Not to mention, the husbands love each other too.  Another rare find.

Nick obviously trusts their knowledge of one of his least favorite animals…horses.

Long story short, Nick got kicked in the calve by a pony rented from a random guy in Mexico while on a mission trip with JR highers.  The horse shoe shape can still be felt on his leg.  This experience was disenchanting to say the least.  He don’t like horses people!

Anyways, months of questions from a certain little girl, and looks of anguish from a certain man finally lead to the gracious “alright let’s do it”.  This was a big deal.  BIG.  Not only did he say yes to the miss, but he said yes to all the kids.  And guess what?  Mama got to ride a horse for the first time in twelve years.  Twelve years.  When you like the smell of horses and their manure, it’s time to schedule an actual ride.  Loved this day.

 

 

Is she not the cutest ever.  This has got to be a post card.

Miss fearless was extremely comfortable and excited to ride the horse.  She was this happy the whole time.  This horse got lots of Josie Bean kisses.

{last two pics taken by Nick}

my baby

I have recently realized that this is it.  This is all the babies I’ll ever have.  I don’t like the finality of that thought.  It makes me want to entertain the  ”maybe someday we’ll adopt” thought– which I know is an unrealistic thought.  There is a deep and open wound in my soul that bleeds every time I notice a new milestone in Desmond.  When he sat, when he rolled, when he clapped, and smiled and learned to scoot around.  Yes, as much as I want him to do these things, I don’t want him to do these things.  Does that make sense?  It does to me.

I am trying my best to relish every moment with this little guy, while not missing the moments of the other children.  I feel like I just want to stare at him all day (a watched pot never boils right?).  I know I should be encouraging him to cruise and walk, but at ten months old, I’m okay with him being right where he is…army crawling as fast as he can towards that piece of fuzz on the floor.  I can hardly stand how much I want him to always be a baby.  Seriously.  I think I need help.  Look at those cheeks.  I don’t ever want them to get sun-burned and pimply.  I like them soft and chubby just as they are.

Despite my efforts to ignore the inevitable…he’s growing up.  I for one am loving the now…pretending the future doesn’t exist.

8 reasons why i heart my clothesline

Tags

clothesline, line drying

We have  been ever-so-busy around here.  I’m sure you have been too.  Handy husband and I have been checking things off of our to-do list.  I don’t make honey-do lists in case you’re wondering.  It’s a team effort- kids included.  The most exciting one for me this week has been the addition of a clothesline.  It’s been almost a year since we’ve had one.  My man is so awesome.  He dug a hole, cemented a pipe in said hole, attached hooks to the house and away went I to hang up clothes.

I don’t understand why, but I tend to be caught up on washing and drying laundry when I have a clothesline.  Maybe it’s because timing is everything.  Warm breezy days are (such as the ones we’ve been having lately) are perfect clothes-drying days.

Truly, words can’t express my love for hanging out clothes on the line.  Okay, I guess words can explain exactly why I love it.

REASONS WHY I LOVE HAVING A CLOTHESLINE

1.  Saves money (c’mon you should have guessed that one)

2.  clothes dry faster (cuts drying time in half– which means I can have a life outside of the wash room)

3.  I like to see my clothes blowin’ in the wind (I like to imagine I’m on our farm when this happens)

4.  Saves energy (aka if the power went out for weeks  we wouldn’t be caught naked)

5.  I really enjoy ‘having” to go outside everyday and hear the birds sing while my children follow me out for a few more minutes of play

6.  Our clothe smell like sunshine.  Yes, it has a smell.  Don’t believe me?  Try it and you’ll know what I’m talking about.

7.  I like to say “go get ‘em off the line” when someone asks me where their underwear are.  It better than “They’re in the dryer”  I don’t know why it just is.

8.  Because I love having a clothesline.

lemon meringue pie

Tags

alton brown, lemon meringue pie, pie crust

In the past couple of weeks I have made 3 lemon meringue pies.  I love lemon meringue pies.  I also love Alton Brown.  Everything I have made from him has turned out fabulous…and I’ve made a dozen or more of his recipes.  So, here’s the recipe for the pie, and my go-to pie crust.  Please make this.  You’ll love it I promise…unless you don’t like lemon meringue pie.  I have no idea why you wouldn’t though.  That’s like not liking chocolate or garlic– unthinkable.  Now to cut a slice of goodness…

{this moment}

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Inspired by soulemama.com

beginning couponing

Tags

coupon sites, couponing, coupons, how to coupon

Let me start off by saying that if you’ve seen the TLC show “Extreme Couponing”, that’s my goal here…at all!

A friend of mine called me up Thursday and asked if I was interested in learning how to coupon.  She just started, and her best deal thus far was 10 boxes of pasta for free.  What?  Okay!  I’m always game for saving money.  She showed me some sites for starting out and how to use them.  Once she left I began printing and cutting away.  So here’s what I learned for all who are interested.

This is the easiest site to understand.  .

Grocery Smarts

You can select your state go through each store and see what’s on sale, and if there is a non-expired coupon (from the Sunday paper or printable) it is listed with the final sale price after coupon.  It’s also categorized by stars (red being the best deals.)  It also lets you know what items are free.

On the top of the above link there are groups A, B, and C.  Go trough and print all the ones you want twice.  You do have to install a coupon printer, and make sure your browser is compatable (googlecrome is not).  I use internet explorer when I print coupons, and the other for when I’m not.

Here are some tips I learned in the last couple of days:

Ask neighbors and friends who don’t coupon to save you the Sunday paper inserts.  Collect as many as you can and buy a Sunday paper if you can (here they cost $1.50).  Keep in mind that you need a coupon for every item. ie If you want to get 5 free toothpastes you need 5 coupons.  This is why you should collect as many coupon packs from the Sunday paper as you can.  The printables are usually different from the paper’s and you can only print off two total from your house. (If you want more try going over to a friends and print from their computer and printer using a separate login ect.)

It’s more shameful to go into debt and not wear deodorant than to send your six-year-old into the town recycling bin to retrieve coupon packs (we found 4, and for the record there is nothing but newspaper in it…NO trash!)

Detailed list are very helpful when you shop.  (Name of item, sale price, price after coupon, total to buy.)

Bring a calculator and pencil.

Keep all your coupons with you, the store sale papers don’t list everything or account for clearance items you may have a coupon for.

Chat with other couponers at the store.  I met three, they were all friendly and I learned even more from each one.  I was even able to teach one lady a couple of tips.

Don’t forget to register your store club cards and load digital coupons on them.  Here Fry’s Food and Safeway often have the same coupons to load on your card as the printables (which means 3 coupons instead of two!)  Print out the loaded coupons list before you head to the store…you will be glad you did.

Check the isles for “blinkers” (coupons that are attached to the shelves with blinking lights)

Ask friends/family to save you coupons from boxes and packages.

Cut out all coupons.  If you don’t use it someone else you know does.  This is a great way to be able  to donate to food banks, jails, and homeless shelters, and nursing homes even when you are struggling yourself.

It takes organization and time, but if it didn’t everyone would do it.  Reap the rewards.

My first week deals:

Best deals:

2 bags of free romaine lettuce

5 deodorants for Nick .99 each (normally $4.50+ each)

I spent $47 at Frys, saved $40 and got a $5 gift card to Frys for my next visit.

More sites to visit::

Coupon Divas

Pinching Your Pennies

Coupons.com

Target

Be the best steward you can be.  Happy couponing!

enjoying…

*Babies sleeping

*Hanging clothes

*Soft red wool

*Cake decorating

*A tiny girl growing up so fast

*Toothless grins

*Celebrating a risen King

*Popcorn popping

*Drooly smiles from the Gerber baby

planted garden

Tags

gardening, organic gardening, raised garden

For the last three days our yard has been undergoing a transformation.  Sadly, all the work of growing seedling ended in gloom.  That’s all I want to say about it.  I am still full of sadness.  It’s silly I know, but what a bummer!  So, tax return $$ was turned into full garden beds in just a few days.

Peppers of a few sorts, onions, tomatoes, a variety of herbs, peas, green beans, cucumbers, strawberries (yum), squash, pumpkin, and watermelon are thriving thus far.  We even planted some pretty non-edible ground coverings.  I am full of excitement to watch this garden grow.   Grapes and berry vines are in our future as well, not to mention a sour cherry tree shoot that is growing a beautiful root system in a cup of water (thank you sweet little old lady neighbor).  Spring has finally sprung up in our yard.  Our raised beds are alive.

Herbs and the compost pile.

Strawberries all the way down the side of the house.

Tomatoes and onions.  P.S. Planting onions is tedious.

Some pretties…Yay for herbs…thyme, rosemary, lavender, and chives.  I’ll be on the look-out all summer for thrifted mason jars.  How about you.  Post links to your gardens for all to see.  I just love to look at other people’s gardens.

A weekend escape

Tags

baseball, weekend get-a-way

Okay it was just one night, but still– it felt like a longer time than it was (in a good way).  The husband and I left the kids in caring hands and headed to Phoenix to watch his beloved Cubs play some baseball.  A few friends went along too.  Since the Cubbies won all was well.  We even enjoyed some post-game fireworks.  It was a much-needed and fully enjoyed time with great friends and each other.  It’s so refreshing to break away from the regular routine and just have fun.  I sure did miss my babes though.

I was afforded the luxury of being high-maintenance for two whole days.  I even curled my hair for the first time in three years.  Nick was actually waiting on me.  Can you believe it?  And, shopping to boot! As you may have guessed there was also plenty of knitting going on.  I’m not ashamed to say I made the most of six hours of driving and three hours of game time.  What knitter wouldn’t?

I love you fabulous husband.  I am overwhelmed with fun.

31 days to clean

Tags

31 days to clean, cleaning, housework, yard sale

I recently ran across a blog that was participating in “31 Days to Clean”.  I read up on it at Joyful Mothering.  I just downloaded the book, but I am making up my own rules too.  I’m just committing to clean an area a day.  I figure I can get the house pretty and sparkling in a month.  Nick has been a huge help in this area.  We deep cleaned our room (which is a serious accomplishment), and did lots of yard work, Nick also cleaned up the living room.  Each room gets emptied of clutter and excess.  We will be having a yard sale at the end of this endeavor.

Part of my own rules is keeping the spic-n-span maintained.  It’s great to take back control.  It’s a concerted and deliberate approach to order.  There is a challenge everyday, so be sure to click the link in the side bar to catch up and join in.  If I can do it, you can to.  Let the Spring cleaning begin!

{this moment}

Tags

canning, preserving, stawberry jam

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

. . . . . . . .

Inspired by Soule Mama

reflecting on mothering

Tags

being a mom, mother's day, mothering

First of all, Happy Mother’s Day to you all!  Last night I knew exactly what it was that I’d be writing today.  As I sat folding laundry and clipping coupons I realized that yesterday wasn’t a day that I was pampered and waited on.  I wasn’t given an elaborate gift.  I didn’t have everyone in the house doing whatever I said, cleaning the house from top to bottom ect.  Here is how the day went for me.

Wake up to this song.  I’m not a morning person so I was thoroughly confused for a couple of minutes.  I was given a banana, an apple and two pieces of chocolate.  I ate only the banana.  They are so sweet though.

Get ready for church

Teach the children’s ministry

Go out for lunch

Come home and do laundry and some dishes

Head to the neighbor’s house with some strawberry jam

Neighbor kid comes over

More laundry

Hang with the kids a while

Eat dinner (Nick made)

More dishes

More laundry

Get kids ready for bed (Nick always helps with this)

Go buy a couple of newspapers

Clip coupons

Go to bed

Confession time.  I waited several hours for my people to offer to do the dishes.  They never thought of it so I started washing away.  Miss Josie followed me around crying irrationally and I wondered why I had to deal with that on Mother’s Day.  Nick asked me to wash the pan so he could make dinner, and I thought he shouldn’t ask me to do anything on Mother’s Day.  As I went to the laundry room to get more clothes to hang while everyone else sat and watched River Monsters together I felt like I deserved a nap on Mother’s Day.  I hung the clothes and sat down with everyone else to take a nap, but my elderly neighbor called and wanted me to come and visit with her because her daughter never called her to say Happy Mother’s Day.  When I came back the neighbor kid was playing at our house so I knew I couldn’t nap.  His mom had him bring over some cake for me, so I went and gave her some strawberry jam.

At this point I was feeling ripped off of a nap, and feeling sorry for myself.  I really truly almost felt like being a whinny pain in the tush. To be clear, I didn’t feel this way all day, but suddenly it all came together and I know I was be distracted from the joy of an ordinary day.  I was happy to just do what I usually do until I became tired.  Then, everything that was keeping me from my nap seemed inconvenient and annoying.  I loud and stern voice was convincing me that this was a horrible day, it wasn’t fair, I just be able to do this and that, and why am I working, and who should be doing what.  The head ranting continued.

Then I listened to a gentle quiet voice tell me that none of this things are what Mother’s Day is about.  It’s not about getting my way or making everyone serve me.  It’s not about having a selfish day because I don’t get to have one any other time.  Okay, what’s it about then, because it sounds like Mother’s Day is all about me.

In my life, right now, Mother’s Day was all about being a mother.  Caring for my lonely neighbor, letting my children play with the kid across the street because he has no one to play with.  Having a much-needed and long conversation with my mom, and being sensitive and caring to a grumpy toddler.

I know that if I wanted to, I could have had my way just by telling Nick what to do.  I came close so many times, but Jesus was trying to show me the bigger picture.  My heart wanted to check out and have a day off from being a mother instead of understanding the importance and need of my role as a mother.

Proverbs 31

Sayings of King Lemuel

¹ The sayings of King Lemuel—an inspired utterance his mother taught him.

² Listen, my son! Listen, son of my womb!
Listen, my son, the answer to my prayers!
³ Do not spend your strength^[a] on women,
your vigor on those who ruin kings.

⁴ It is not for kings, Lemuel—
it is not for kings to drink wine,
not for rulers to crave beer,
⁵ lest they drink and forget what has been decreed,
and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.
⁶ Let beer be for those who are perishing,
wine for those who are in anguish!
⁷ Let them drink and forget their poverty
and remember their misery no more.

⁸ Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
⁹ Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character

^10 [b]A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
¹¹ Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
¹² She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
¹³ She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
¹⁴ She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
¹⁵ She gets up while it is still night;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her female servants.
¹⁶ She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
¹⁷ She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
¹⁸ She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
¹⁹ In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
²⁰ She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.
²¹ When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
²² She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
²³ Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
²⁴ She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.
²⁵ She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
²⁶ She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
²⁷ She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
²⁸ Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
²⁹ “Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.”
³⁰ Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
³¹ Honor her for all that her hands have done,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

This is what I long to be.  Gracious and caring.  Attentive and serving.  Putting Jesus first.  Instilling godly wisdom into my children whenever I can.  I am so thankful for this reminder exactly when I needed it.  It’s true that a mother’s job is never done, but the Holy Spirit has a full-time job in me as well.

And just to prove my point to myself, as I write this Nick and the kids are painting the master bedroom because Nick woke up and just really wanted to today for some reason.  I think it’s because I shut my mouth and opened my heart.

how i cloth diaper

A surprising amount of people have started using cloth diapers for various reasons; allergies the paper diapers, financial saving, environmental conviction ect.  I have been doing cloth diapers for about six years off and on.  With my last two babes I have used cloth exclusively (unless out-of-town).  A few of you have contacted me and asked me exactly what I do.  I decided the best way is to put it all down in writing so I have a place to refer all you mamas.

First of all, there are so many ways to cloth diaper it would be exhausting to explain them all myself.  Click here for some explanations.  Once you’ve read through that I’ll explain what I do.

I use pre-fold diapers and covers with snappis.  I love snappis!  I order all my supplies from Green Mountain Diapers (link in side bar) and have for years.  They are fast, knowledgeable and they have great prices.

I use pre-fold diapers.  I have had all-in-ones, and pocket diapers in the past.  All-in-ones get to stinky and take too long to dry for me -plus- it’s expensive to buy that many diapers.  Pocket diapers (I used Fuzibunz) have a fleece lining which holds smells as well.  I also thought they were super leaky since they are not snug against baby.  They are also expensive since you can only use them for one changing.  I has to buy 30 or so of them!  They did pay for them selves in saving eventually but it took 6 months!

I have seriously tried a dozen different diaper covers.  Thirsties are the best!  They aren’t as expensive as most, they never leak, they come in cute colors and patterns.  I recommend the Thirsties Duos with snaps.  Velcro breaks down when the cover itself has plenty more life in it.  I have also knit some wool covers as well.  One hank of pure wool costs me $7.  It makes 2 newborn or 1.5 of the other sizes.  If I didn’t make them I wouldn’t own then because a wool cover will cost you $30-$40.  Yikes!  I started doing cloth to save money.  That doesn’t make sense to me.

I use regular baby wash cloths for wipes, and I buy fleece liners to wick moisture away from baby’s bottom.  I make my own skin healing balm for rashes out of the book Organic Body Care.  This also doubles for a substitute for Neosporin.  I also buy the Thirsties bottom spray for the dirtier diaper jobs.  I advise anyone who purchases bottom sprays to NOT buy ones with tea tree, lavender, or citrus because they cannot be used when a rash is present.  They will sting baby’s bottom!

I also purchased a diaper pail and liner years ago as well as a wet bag for when we’re out and about.  These can be substituted for a trash can with a lid, and a pillowcase.  And when you’re out you can use a grocery bag.

When I wash I use Ecos Laundry Soap, or Biocleen Laundry (the free and clear one).  I have used soap nuts in the past, but when the baby get older you need a stronger detergent.  I run a regular cold cycle with nothing in the water, then a cold cycle with soap, then a hot cycle with soap and 1/4 of borax or oxyclean, then another cycle free of soap.

I dry them in the dryer because when they quilt up they’re more absorbant and soft, then if weather permits I hang them dry outside to bleach out bacteria and stains.

If I am having a huge problem with diaper rash (ammonia builds in cloth diapers if not treated regularly) I add 1/4 bleach (*gasp*) to the first cycle with soap.  Then I dry in the dryer.  Wash one more cold cycle with 1 Tbs soap and one extra rinse and dry again.  Then I hang them out.  This process is called “stripping” the diapers.

Sometimes I put 1/2 vinegar in the last rinse.  I don’t know if it makes a difference or not which is why I don’t do it regularly.

P.S. Never dry your covers in the dryer or on the line outside.  Heat breaks down the waterproofing.  Ideally you should wash them separately from the diaper, but I never have.

It may sound like a ton of info and instruction, but once you do it a couple of time it’s no big deal.

There are diaper sprayers that attach to the toilet (I used to have one), and special pails.  They are designed so you don’t have to deal with the poop thing.  I just had a pair of kitchen gloves I designated for the job.  After a while I just switched to plain ol’ hands.

that time of year

Tags

curriculum, homeschooling

For us it’s the time of year when we order our new curriculum.  I love getting those heavy packages in the mail and opening them together like it’s Christmas morning.  I am thrilled about using KONOS!

I read through it last night and now I’m super motivated to get going on it.  The awesomeness of KONOS is going to fill our school room just as soon as this year’s good, but not-so-exciting work is done.  Miss Olivia was so excited to get a glimpse of the kindergarten package.  She was jumping up and down with joy.  It feels my heart with so much joy to see her just plain thrilled about learning.

Here’s what we ordered:

KONOS

Singapore Math

Soaring with Spelling

Growing with Grammer

I have used everything except KONOS before.  I can’t wait.  I love that the unit studies are all about Godly character building.  KONOS covers science, social studies, music, artcrafts, writing, geography, math concepts, creative expression, history, physical skills, practical living, theology, and literature all within a character trait.

Each volume is 2 years of learning and covers 6-7 character traits.  The volumes are multi-level as well, meaning that the same curriculum teaches K-8 and is all up the state guidelines.  LOVE that!

We are all highly motivated to finish off our school year and start learning together as a family, just the way we like it.  How about you?

31 days to clean…progress is good

Tags

31 days to clean

I can barely understand why it’s working, but it is.  I am loving the spring cleaning challenges and the spiritual applications connected with the Homemaker’s Challenge.  What an encouragement and a blessing.  As a secondary perk my house is becoming cleaner by the day.  Happy weekend to you all.

If you have taken the challenge yet, do!  Don’t feel pressure about “catching up”, simply pick up where we’re at.  Head over to Joyful Mothering for some reflections about the challenge.

josie has a wooly head

Getting a head-start on fall/winter knits is truly the only assurance I have that they will get done in time.  I don’t mind one bit either.  The pattern was improvised.

high tea

I was recently invited to a High Tea.  I have never been to any tea party outside the walls of our home, and hosted by my very own little ladies.  I was excited to say the least.  Nick knew how excited I’d be the second he heard of it.  He knows me well.  I’m a 50′s housewife stuck in a millennial housewife’s body.  I like to think of myself as an old soul.  I was honored at the invite, and blessed by the company of four other Christian women in the carpool.

We traveled two hours to the Armado Inn.  Yes, I was the youngest one in the ride, but with my knitting addiction, I’m used to that sort of thing.  I wasn’t, however, the youngest at the tea.  This actually surprised me.  Next year I’m taking my girls along.

It was refreshing to have a full day with adult women, and even more refreshing to hear a wonderful message about how great and caring the God we serve.  The keynote speaker just happened to be a dear friend.  She did a wonderful job.

Pinkies up ladies!  Don’t you just love saying that you ate a scone with lemon curd?  It sounds so very proper and sophisticated, does it not?

spring chickens

Tags

chicks

Our last five chicks have arrived, giving us a total of ten.  It’s a small flock, but a fun and happy one.  Five Americanas and five Black Australorps.  If you thought babies grew fast, you should see chicks.  Our new arrivals are three 3 days old.  The bigger ones are three months old and just a month or two away from laying eggs.  Exciting times here on our tiny little homestead.

a walk in nature

I so enjoy these times together.

jay bird

Tags

desmond. birthday

It’s this little one’s birthday in just one week.  I’m sad and happy and feeling a little like it can’t be real.  I am now going to pretend it isn’t really happening.

He’s displaying a couple of his favorite things: being naked and playing with cars.  Yep.  That’s a boy for ya.

laundry tips: how to fold a fitted sheet

Tags

how to fold a fitted sheet, laundry

Today I was folding sheets, when I decided enough is enough.  I’m gonna fold this stinkin’ fitted sheet perfectly.  A peek at a You-Tube video sealed the deal.  Take that you awkward, puffy sheet.

Why didn’t I figure this out years ago?

I am a little ashamed that a man taught me though.

In our family we accumilate lots of clothes, makes numerous spills, and try to save money by having re-usables such as napkins, handkerchiefs, hand towels, and diapers.  Laundry has been my arch nemesis for so long.  Over the last few weeks we as a family have introduced new methods and systems into our home and now I’m taking back my life from the dirty laundry monster.

I seriously feel that less than one month ago our house was visited by this laundry monster weekly.  I can’t wait to share more about how Prince Charming saved me from the evil villain that was lurking in the garage.

Stay tuned for more laundry help this week as I share how you too can have a life outside of washing and folding.

I want to hear from you too!  What are some tips you’d like to share? How do you save money or time in the laundry department?  Post or link in the comments.  Let’s face the beast together!

birthday boy

It’s not what it looks like :)  Optical illusion…

A wonderful celebration of my littlest guy happened yesterday.  It was a small and quiet gathering.  Those are sometimes the best ones though.  I am so grateful for this tiny life God has given us.  My baby.  My last baby.  I hold him a little longer, and smell him a little longer in hopes of never forgetting the last moments of his infancy.  He is such a blessing.

 

 

organic, chem-free cleaning and more

Tags

organic cleaning

Over the past year we’ve been making steps to become a chem-free household.  As they’ve gotten used up, I have been replacing store-bought cleaners with homemade organic and chemical-free ones.  The benefits are grand.  First, they are much less expensive.  Yay!  Second, I feel better to have them with all the little ones.  I don’t have to worry about them getting into them and going blind or dying.  Another relieving reason is mama won’t be inhaling fumes.

I take about fifteen minutes every month or so to make all the cleaners.  They smell fresh and clean.  They are so safe the kids can use them too!  No excuses there :)  I have seen many recipes online, but I prefer to have them in handy book form.  Some great sources are listed below, but let me say, I get no money from recommending these to you.  They are simply books I came across and like.

I picked up the book Organic Housekeeping from the library.  I really enjoy the ideas and tips in there.  Reusing plastic mesh produce bags for dish scrubbers,  and the chemical-free oven cleaning recipes are among my favs.  There are wonderful suggestions for organizing and time management as well.  Not to mention how to reduce your water usage while doing dishes and cleaning.

Make Your Place is a book I use for almost all my cleaning recipes.  I love it!  This book is great for many tips and changes for a more organic lifestyle.  The author teaches you how to make your own tinctures, essential oils, gardening , and body care along with the cleaning resources and an extensive herbal index.

How about you?  What changes are you making to your budget?  What steps have you taken to have a more kid-friendly system in your cleaning and household care routines?  What are some of your favorite sites for organic and chemical-free recipes?

family chores

Tags

chores, kids

Since the kids were able to pick something up and drop it, we’ve tried to instill a habit and responsibility of chores.  I firmly believe that children are able and should be hard-workers, and diligent in their responsibilities.  I believe it’s biblical.  I feel that they see this example in my husband and I along with all their grandparents.  Because we exemplify this trait, and teach them the biblical importance and applications  I have often wondered why it is met with such resistance.  We have made numerous chore charts, rewards systems, and rotating “jurisdictions” over the years.  It seems that these systems would work for a time, and then the excitement and momentum would dwindle and soon we’d be back to chores being a long drawn-out battle of the wills.  Just in the nick-of-time God came though.  Nick and I had an epiphany.  Correction.  Jesus came to the rescue.

Nick and Andre spent some time cleaning up Andre’s room.  Andre cleaned and scrubbed with a joyful heart.  He did and excellent job.  He was proud of his work, and glad to have such a sparkling room.  This is where the seed for our new choring method came from.  It’s not rocket science, but for us it’s life-changing.  Are you ready?  Okay, here’s the secret to training your kids to not only work hard, but also to work efficiently and correctly. Get this…clean with your kiddos.  Yeah, actually work side-by-side as a family.  What a mind-boggling concept huh?  Instead of naming off the chores and going your separate ways (here this leads to kids goofing off, taking five or more times longer, and parents becoming frustrated, which leads to kids becoming resentful and sad) WORK TOGETHER!  Here’s what we do:  I have my “team” helping put away and wash dishes, wipe counters, collect dirties, Nick has his team wiping the table and chairs, sweeping and spot mopping.  It takes us about 15 minutes or so and we’re done.  How great is that?  It used to be an hour of back and forth to get Isabel and Andre to put away dishes and clean up the table area.  Not to mention the attitude and arguments that went along with it.  Now it’s completely different.

It has been actually fun to clean with them.  They are all so proud and confident in the work they do, and so are we.  When we work together we get the job done lickety-split and done much better than if tired mama does it on her own when the kids are in bed.  When we work together the kids see that team work is the best work.  When we work together we are training them to do a great job, not a kid  job.  I like it.  They like it.  Our house is feeling more manageable.  I’m feeling less overwhelmed.  I love that.  Who knew such a simple concept could change the entire mood of the house.  We feel so much more like a family when we’re together.  If you don’t believe me check out Maple Valley Farm.  It just so happens that on the same week we change I read all about another family who does and loves the same thing.

{this moment}

all by herself

Josie has recently figured out how to wash her hands all by herself.  She beams with pride every time she cleans up.  As nervous as it makes me, I know there are plenty more of these creative do-it-yourself maneuvers in her future.  I love this kid.  She completely amazes me in every way.

 

 

 

josie, my dear little one

Tags

josie, metatropic dysplasia, prayers

Today I was going to post about what I’ve been cooking or baking, or share a garden update, but all that seems to not matter as much now.  Miss Josie’s X-Ray report came in today.  It said words like Platyspondyly, deossification, and the dreaded hypoplastic ondontoid.  I was going to calmly tell Nick the news, but as I told him I broke apart.  I was going to really lose it, but his prayers and words calmed my heart.

It’s ironic really.  Just last week I was thinking to myself about the cycle of following Jesus.  At first it’s a high.  An enthusiastic energy that can not be stopped.  A consuming fire.  As years pass and everyday reality sets in there seems to  be times of trials in which we grow closer to God, followed by peaceful rivers of contentment.  I was thinking how peaceful and easy life seemed just then.  I knew immediately a storm was coming.  I never know what they are, but it never fails that this thought come to mind.  God whispers “I’ll be there, don’t worry”.  That’s when I know it will be a big storm.

I know trials mold be and shape me into the women that God would have me be.  I truly welcome them.  I’m confident that my God knows all.  He knows what’s best for me…for us.  I trust Him.  I love Him.  I thank Him through teary eyes and fearful heart that all will be well.  No matter what, He will never leave me.  An ever-present help in times of trouble.

I don’t blindly go where He goes.  I know exactly where we’re going.  I don’t know what it looks like, but I am certain it’s a place where He is my Lord, and I am his servant.  It’s a place that cannot be imagined, yet I can already see that I’ll love Him more.  I’m going with Jesus through some suffering that leads to joy.  He’s taking me on a path unknown to a place I’ve been before…surrender.  I love where we’re going, but I don’t want to ride the train.

Will there be surgery?  How will we pay for it (blasted insurance company!), will she be scared, will I be?  When?  Where?  Goodness!  The bombardment flows through my head. Pray Jennee.  You are a fool to wrestle with the invisible.  You cannot control it.  Maybe it won’t be so bad.  People are around you to love.  Love them.  Love the doctors, love the nurses, love the other parents going though even worse.  They are the mission field.  Be thankful.  Thankful for her.  Thankful for professionals, thankful for everything.  Everything?  Yes.

As our family takes this journey with Jesus, I ask for your faithful prayers.  I know that miracles are only from God.  I ask Him for them now.  Will you join me?  From a mother’s heart to yours, I pour myself to you, my faithful readers.  Some of you are dear friends, some of you are dear strangers.  Knowing you’re there is so very comforting.  Knowing He is there is so calming.  Jesus let your name be glorified.  ”To whom shall we go?  You alone have the words of eternal life” ~John 6:68

monument fire

We safely arrived home from our camping trip yesterday to a sky full of smoke.  About 20 or so mile from us the Monument Fire is blazing.  I have been consumed with concern for residents who’ve lost homes, and firefighters literally putting their life on the lines.  The fire is currently headed to Sierra Vista in a more populated area.  My heart grieves with these residents.  Officials say it will be a long drawn-out process to put out this fire while gusting winds through Sunday are on the forecast.  Please pray.

For all of you who are wondering, we still have no news on Josie’s status.  The orthopedic surgeon is on vacation until Monday.  You can bet that I’ll be calling first thing in the AM :)  It seems God really wants me to be patient.  This is what’s on my heart right now.  It’s a lot to have dangling in my brain.  I promise pictures of peaceful camping moments tomorrow when I have time to process all that has been set before me.  Wheew.

I just can’t believe any of this is real.  Not the prospect of Josie being in danger.  Sometimes I feel like I’m watching a movie that could never happen in real life…then I realize this is my life.   I never feel prepared for trials of this magnitude.  I’m thankful to Jesus who fills in the blanks of my ability and trust.  He is in control…of everything.

it didn’t go as planned

Tags

Monument Fire, servathood, wildfire

Today was my Isabel’s birthday.  It wasn’t the kind of day I thought it was going to be.  I planned on making her meals she picked out last week.  Pancakes with whipped cream, grilled cheese, mac ‘n cheese and a cheesecake with cherries on top.  We made it through breakfast before things began to change.  I birthday call from auntie, and an invite to go swimming was the first change.  I looked around at all the dishes on the counter, and remembered the camping laundry that still needed to be done, but I agreed to go.  On our way there Isabel said, This is going to be the best birthday ever.”

After swimming we headed out for pizza.  I looked at her and asked if that was okay with her since she wanted grilled cheese.  Her sweet little smile and nod assured me it was.  During our lunch we received a phone call that Nick godmother and husband were being evacuated.  Since her son is a firefighter we got the news a little early.  We decided to head straight there and help them pack up their belongings.  Everything from that point on seemed like some surreal dream or scene out of an action movie.

We headed into the belly of the beast.  Now, I have been keeping up on the fire and evacuation updates almost obsessively since we arrived home Tuesday (I know, I still haven’t posted pics yet!) but the closer we got the more it impacted me.  My throat has been scratchy for days, and I could see why.  The smoke was blowing right over where we live.  Driving out of the area made this more obvious.  I thought of the fireman and residents and knew it was much worse for them.  By the time we reached the first turn off, I began to realize we were in the danger zone.  Thick brown smoke covered the huge mountain range that I love so much.  My eyes welled up when I saw the disaster that was before me  It seemed the only traffic passing us were police and sheriffs flying by with their lights on.  Every set of flashing lights that went by reminded me how real this was.  I wasn’t dreaming.  I wasn’t over-reacting.  We are really going to help someone who may not have a home tomorrow.  It’s eerily true.

West onHereford 1:30 ish

West on Hwy 92 1:25 ish

When we arrived we had to wait a couple of minutes until they got there.  I immediately started shooting.  I looked around the property and knew that there was no way to save it all.  Smoke that had minutes before been a brownish haze was now a thick black cloud of smoke billowing larger and wider.  Helicopters were heard flying back and forth.  I sounded like a haunting in that moment.  They arrived and we got packing.  It was very hurried and business-like.  ”This?”  ”No.”  What about this?”  ”Yes.”  I let the kids eat whatever and drink whatever.  This was no time to think of such things as sugar intake.  Out of all the things they had, they wanted to pack very little.  When a situation like this occurs you only bring what you could never buy.  That boils down to a very simple and short list.  Pictures, paper work, and identity.  I few sets of clothes, a couple special items, food for the animals, camera, medication  were also added.   After being there for about forty minutes, I could tell the fire was getting worse.  The wind was inconveniently gusting, and the smoke area was spreading wider.  Every pillar of black smoke gave me a chill.  Were these all different houses?  It must have been about two miles or so from us.

Moson/Montana 1:45

Moson/Montana 1:45

We got a call from the fireman son to get out and take pictures of everything.  I started clicking.  Last minute things were being packed and we went down a list of things we didn’t want to forget.  Some drinks were set by the door to take.  It was then a realized how thirsty I was.  Every swallow felt like razors cutting my throat.  Again, I thought of the brave firefighters, law enforcement and other people fighting this beast.  I realized how quickly and easily you can get dehydrated when you are so focused on a task like this.  The dog got loaded among the boxes and bags.  The kids were told to head to the car, and as I ran in and out of the house gathering and assessing I could hear the small “woots” of the police sirens.  They got closer and closer.  I knew it was time.  At some point I said , “They’re coming for us I can here them getting closer.”  We threw more things in whatever place it would fit.  I looked up at the smoke again.  It was darker and closer, and the wind was picking up even more.  I went into the house and warned, “We need to leave now, it’s getting closer and coming straight here.”  I was involuntarily shaking at this point.  Adrenaline was pumping fast and furious.

 

I loaded something and then I saw the police come in the driveway.  ”It on Moson and Hereford”  My heart sank a little then.  It was so close so fast.  About a 3/4 of a mile away.  We all started yelling at the kids with desparite voices to buckle up.  I helped tackle a scared-witless cat into the truck  who then proceeded to urinate all over me, grabbed paperwork, water, counted kids, moved the van,  Realized I was bleeding from the cat attack,  and rushed to see what else was needed.  Moments later we were on the way out the drive.  Once on Moson headed away from the fire a real panic set in.  The traffic out was stop and go–mostly stop.  The rear-view mirror showed cars behind as far as I could see.  Black smoke beyond that.  I realized at the end of the road behind me was the fire.

In a moment like this you ask questions.  Is this happening?  Why did I bring my kids?  Is this it for me?  Why don’t they open both lanes going out?  Why is that guy still trying to save his tractor, quad, 3 trailers, two other vehicles?  Doesn’t he know he needs to leave NOW? Why isn’t this traffic moving?  Should I call people I love right now?  Am I freaking out over nothing?  Why are my kids with me!  Where is my head band?

North Palaminas Rd 1:27

I made a few phone calls to keep my mind off my anxiety.  While relaying information and checking the rear view, I thought of the people closer to the end of the road.  I prayed the wind would stop.  It felt like an hour, but was probably about 15 minutes until we were in free-flowing lanes.  Time truly seemed to creep and flash forward at the same time.

The Huachuhas from Ramsey Rd 8:45 pm

We reached our destination safely.  We hydrated, I chapsticked, Desmond got a diaper change.  Time began to be normal again.  We headed out for pizza for the second time today. Isabel got a cake despite the day’s events.  We went home.  The kids went to bed.  Still, my heart is with the ones who have no homes, who are displaced, who are at the lines, who may lose their livelihood, who don’t know Jesus.  Who need Him more than they could ever know.  Pray friends for this unpredictable and rapidly growing fire.  Pray for the gospel to be spread.

 

{this moment}

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Have a lovely weekend!

. . . . . . . .

Inspired by soulemama.

the big catch up

Tags

garden, homemade pie, organic gardening

Hi.  Did you miss me?  I missed you.  I feel like I’ve been gone for weeks.  We’ve had too much excitement here.  And by excitement I mean VBS, Strep throat and stomach bugs the week we’re packing up for the big California trip.   I owe it to you and to myself to do a little catching up.  I feel out-of-sorts when I neglect you and my needles.  They’re the first things to go, and the first to return at the end of a chaotic cycle.  This is the most exciting thing that’s come out of my kitchen n the last two weeks.  Blueberry pie.  Thank you self you freezing the leftover crust when you made pie a couple of months ago.  Otherwise, there would be no picture to follow.

I am so pleased with the garden this season.  We are finally stating to see the fruits (and vegetables) of our labors.  I love to go outside and admire the miracles a little added water produces.

I can’t wait for more of this soon.  So, what’s new in your life?

california: all the fun stuff

Tags

4th of July, california

Eight days and hundreds of photos later, we’re home from California.  A week-long trip calls for more than one post.  For the next few days I’ll be sharing bits of our wonderful adventures with family and friends, as well as updates on Josie.  I LOVE my family.  I love all my family. Right now, I simply want to express how much I treasure our times with our out-of-town California family.

I have such fond memories of visiting them over the years.  I so enjoy seeing my own children fully immersed in the love that is shown by this side of the family, just as I did as a child.  Something about being around my grandparents makes me feel like I’m eight years old again. I like that.  We stayed with my aunt and uncle and their three kids.  They had so much fun, and so did we.  Their kids are all around the same age as ours, and my aunt is not much older than me either.  We always pick up where we left off…giggling and having fun just being around each other.  So many night have been spent as kids staying up ridiculously late talking…not much has changed.

I admit I hardly saw the older kids.  They were off playing and making memories of their own…staying up ridiculously late as well :)

 

 

 

 

The Fourth of July was spent having a blast and making cute food.  It also happens to be the day we saw Josie’s doctors, but that’s for another post.

Family and friends played some soccer, made s’mores, and shot off a fair share of fireworks, some legal, some…well…not.  In fact, several neighbors did the same making the need to drive somewhere and watch fireworks disappear.So, tell me.  What are some of your favorite Independence Day traditions?  How did you celebrate the birth of the country this year?

More California posts are comin’ your way Monday :)

the beach of Cali

Tags

beach, vacation

Seal beach is a wonderful beach for kids.  Soft sand and small waves.  Frankly, the only thing I care about when it comes to beaches are the rolling waves and the salty smell.  I don’t think I would ever tire of it.  Ever.  Each visit to the shore has me wishing I could live next to it.  Honestly, can we be called to a place by the beach to start a church someday?  Please?  I promise I won’t complain.  The kids had so much fun frolicking in the sand and running along the seashore.  My aunt and I attempted body surfing in the tiny waves while…you guessed it…talking some more :)

I can’t talk enough about how well the cousins get along.  Such a fun day.  I love these goofy girls and boys completely being carefree kids as the should.  I also love the beach.  I love it very much.  Like, a lot.

 

the Josie part of California

Tags

josie, LPA, metatropic dysplasia

The main reason we headed to California exactly when we did was to attend the Little People of America (LPA) 2011 National Convention.  We didn’t go for the workshops or the gatherings (mostly because we wanted to spend as much time as possible with family).  We went because of the medical clinics they offer for no extra charge.  I am so overwhelmed with gratitude to all the doctors who volunteer their time to see patients who truly need expert advice.

Our main concern with Josie is her spine.  Particularly her c1 and c2.  In people with Metatropic Dysplasia this is an area that is watched closely.  There is potential for severe spine damage and possible death if these two vertebrates are unstable. They can slip and compress the spinal cord.  It’s pretty scary to think of.  Our pediatrician here has had only one little person under his care in over 30 years of practice…Josie.  An expert opinion of if, when, and how to fuse the spine is so greatly needed.  Again, so thankful for these professionals that deal with various dwarfism daily to have a look at Josie.

So, off to the convention we went.  It was just Nick, Josie, and I.  The rest of the clan got to spend some time with the family.  Walking into the hotel was surreal.  Everywhere we looked we saw little people laughing, talking, pulling suitcases ect.  Sometimes I think Josie isn’t really a little person.  I mean, she’s only 2.5 so it’s easy to forget that she’s already more than half as tall as she’ll ever be.  It’s easy to forget.  This made it pretty clear.  She’s going to be super small forever.  Personally height is no issue.  I couldn’t care less about what she looks like.  She’s my baby girl and I love her dearly.  I see all tat she is, not just how she looks.  Others.  Others are the ones that care.

As we were standing in line to check in, I felt like a giant.  I’m 5’3″ so this doesn’t happen often, if ever.  Josie has crooked feet that turn inward, so as I stood in line I observed what types of shoes everyone was wearing.  That wasn’t helpful.  Flip-flops, tennis shoes, skater shoes, even high heels.  I always have a hard time finding shoe that are comfy for Josie so I was hoping for an answer.  I noticed that most everyone wore regular yet tailored clothes.  Guess I’ll me bound to my sewing machine whether I have time or not :)  There were also many wheelchairs and scooters.  Josie looked around too.  She saw a little man hustling for the elevator and said, “Haha,” in her goofy little chuckle, “He’s little like me mom!”

She doesn’t know she a little person yet.  She just got a kick out of how small the adults were.  To a two-year-old I guess it would be fun.

After check in we headed back to our family stopping to take some pictures outside.

A couple of days later we went to see the doctors for our appointments.  Dr. Krokaw is a genetics and OB doctor for little people.  She was so helpful.  We now know to have Josie’s eyes and ears checked yearly.  Also, she suggested we do a sleep study to rule out Central Sleep Apnea.  This disorder is present when there is damage to the spinal cord.  I would have never thought that her serious snoring would have anything to do with her vertebrae.  Like I said…expert advice is so very important.

We then took her X-Ray disc down the hall to Dr. Mackenzie for Dupont Children’s Hospital in Delaware.  He is a pediatric orthopedic surgeon who specializes in skeletal dysplasias (dwarfism).  After doing a full body exam, and reviewing her images, he saw no need to rush off to surgery with her.  Over all he said that her case is quite mild and she is doing great.  Her spine looks fairly straight considering, and there appears to be no damage to the spinal cord.  He did mention that he would like the X-Rays done over since they were poor images (thanks Copper Queen Hospital), just to be sure.  What a relief!  From now on we can simply email or mail the images instead of paying the money to go see him every year.  Yipee!

We are so relived and excited to have doctors that are passionate and proactive about Josie’s health.  They are a wonderful group of doctors that are very caring and sympathetic to out little Josie.  Ahh, now we can breathe.  No more worries for now.

random pics from California

Tags

california, Photography

To conclude the posting of our wonderful trip to Cali, here are some pictures that didn’t make it into the other categories.

So many great times.  Nothing beats a good vacation.  Wouldn’t you agree?  To make it better, a vacation with a great family.

knitting know-how: how to finish well

Tags

berroco, knitting, noro, opal, yarn

I just thought I’d share a wonderful article on how to weave in your ends.  As many projects as I’ve done, I have never once done this right.  Though I did watch some YouTube videos on this, they seemed to think there was no right or wrong way to do it.  Thank goodness someone took the time to clear up that myth.  So, without further ado, and knowing all-too-well that I could be the only who cares…here’s the link to The Purl Bee’s article.

P.S.  Look what I got at a real live yarn store in California.  Nick allowed me to indulge myself in this soft and dreamy yarn.

In my opinion every trip should at some point include a local fiber shop.  I really am becoming a yarn snob.  Knitting with quality natural fiber should not be done unless you’re willing to never go back to acrylic again.  It’s apples and oranges I tell ya.  Thank you to my sweet husband who puts up with and enables my addiction.

 

 

 

 

{this moment}

Tags

organic gardening

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

. . . . . . . .

Inspired by SouleMama

summer nights

Tags

family, park, sports

Summer nights are best spent at the park having picnic dinners, meeting new friends, sneaking in some knitting, discovering grass for the first time,exercising by learning new sports, and cheering one another on.  Wouldn’t you agree?

 

kitchen treasures

When I was young, I remember spending time baking and cooking with my mom in the kitchen.  ’mI sure I was a big “help”.  I remember carrots being shredding for carrot cake, and banana bread coming out of the oven.  I really enjoyed those moment in the kitchen.  It’s one of the few times I know I liked doing dishes…side by side with mom.  As, the years passed mom was in our kitchen less and less.  So many things happen in life that change the rhythm of the home, so I certainly can’t hold it against her.  Still, I treasure those time together.

I am reminded as my little ones at foot constantly, not to shoo them out of the kitchen all the time.  Cooking and baking is something I view as an escape, but I must make it a place for memories as well.  I do try.  When all the hands are in the pot (or in the flour as it were) I tend to end the cooking with mom session quickly.  I really need to have more patience with them.  I want them to have warm pictures in their minds just as I do.  After all, I’m no stranger to eat baking cocoa behind mom’s back.  That one tends to backfire :)

I have spent the last couple of days organizing my recipes.  During the process I came across some childhood favorites hand-written by my mom.  Some are older than I am.  This makes them vintage, thus doubly loved.  I am so thankful to be able to pass these on to my own kids.  I also am thankful I finally wrote them down for myself as I’m sure mom is wondering what happened to them…Oops.  Sorry mama.  I’ll be sure to get them back soon :)

What kitchen memories do you treasure?

Recipe cards and dividers found here.

changing

For the last couple of weeks, God has been working mightily in this heart of mine.  Thank you Jesus.  You know, it’s never easy to see things about yourself that need changing.  The best we can do is admit it and give that part of our life and our heart over to the One who is able to turn it for good.  As I think of the work in my own life  (realizations, forgiveness and healing) I can’t help but remember that God alone is in the business of changing lives.  My life, the lives of those around me, the lives of all who are willing to let him in.  This is the simple message that is laced throughout the gospel, but something that can transform even the surrendered life.  I need reminders.  Lists, Post-its, calenders…they are my friends.  Even in the spiritually realm I notice that I often forget the simplest truth– just as I forget the simplest grocery item (milk or eggs).

I am so thankful that my God is willing and able to do exceedingly, abundantly more than I can ask or think.  He’s faithful to complete the work He started in me to the end.  There’s always something to do right?  Something always needs cleaning, something always needs tending, someone always wants our attention.  Something is always in my own heart that needs fixing.  Whether it be a hurt or a loss or a sin, or a calling…there is always something changing within me.

I truly feel that at this moment I’m on the cusp of a life-change.  I think that as a Christian I have gone through many life-changers, but never something this significant.  All I can say is that the enemy has had a field day in the world.  It’s time for Jesus to do His work in all of my family.  It’s a cross-roads.  I love you and appreciate you all me dear, sweet, faithful readers.  I wouldn’t be able to look at myself in the mirror if I didn’t at least mention the truth about Jesus to you.

“But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”  Joshua 24:15

All of creation testifies of the glory and might and power of our creator.

papers, books, teacher’s dirty looks…

Tags

back to school, home school

Wow.  Summer flew by us far too quick. We are now back in session.  This will be the busiest year for this mama yet.  Isa is in 3rd grade now, learning cursive and all.  Andre is starting 2nd, Olivia is joining in with Kindergarten, and Miss Josephine is just beside herself with excitement as she begins preschool.  We are hustling and bustling around these parts.  Daily routines are making way to a happy steady family rythmn…at least that’s the “plan” :)

Shall I won’t mention here– in this place where I try to remember the “good” in each day– that it takes awhile for us to adjust?  Not everyone is pleased to do their work, not everyone is obedient, there are issues of respect for authority, and following directions isn’t everyone’s cup-of-tea.  We’ll get there, I know.  But sadly, amongst the papers and books, teacher has given plenty of dirty looks.

Don’t judge me.  I’m working on it.

Day by day I know we’ll all get to a place where expectations of new and wonderful lessons are on the forefront of every child’s mind. I don’t know how to achieve it, but I am making it my aim to instill a love for learning in them.  If you love to learn, you are self-motivated and curious.  I do believe this is the longest and most important lesson.  Wish me luck, or rather, pray.  Miracles happen, I’m sure of it.

What keeps your children motivated to learn?  I am praying that our switch in curriculum is the key.  Fun, memorable, unit studies are at our disposal.  Here’s to prayer and steadfastness.  It’s not easy to home school, it’s not always fun to home school, but it is this family’s calling and we’re sticking it out to the end.  Family in tote, books on shelf, Bible in hand, prayers on heart, with my loins girded…I’m heading into this sucker head-on.  Here’s to another year of learning.  *Raised coffee mug*  Yes, I’ve back-slid.  I fell off the wagon.  I’m drinking coffee.  And that’s all I got to say ’bout that.

First day of school 2011.

baby aviatrix

Tags

knit hats, knitting

I have been eyeing the Aviatrix hat for almost two years now.  Finally, I made it for a baby shower gift.  I also improvised some other hats in newborn sizes.  Desmond was kind enough to lend his head for picture-taking purposes.  Seeing how cute he looks in it obviously makes it entirely necessary that he get one as well.  Off to do that.

P.S.  Shooting red is a challenge…especially without Lightroom.  It’s much deeper in color and not at all orange-y.  Just saying ;)

(Details on Ravelry)

{this moment}

{this moment} – A Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

. . . . . . . .

Inspired by SouleMama

Andre got baptised!

little steps

My little guy took his first steps a couple of days ago.  I know he’s a bit on the later side of walking (almost 16 mons old), but I feel it has come too soon.  I’m not really mourning his babyness going away.  I am more sad that since he’s the fifth kid, I’ll forget all the moments of his babyhood because my mind can’t retain all the information for future questions.  I don’t want to be the parent who has no pictures of the last baby (in his case I probably have more than with the others), or when he has his own children I want to be able to compare when he walked with when grand kids walked.  I realize this is silly.  When you are on your last baby I guess you start doing silly things.  You called him baby even when he’s six, you document ever second of his life, you worry about questions his wife will ask you when they have babies.  You do all this when he’s only 16 months old.

This is where I’ll just take a deep breath and enjoy this moment.  *ahhhh*

Look how cute my little baby is!  He clapped for himself in between steps.  So sweet this guy.  Both the guys actually.

Blurry pics…please excuse :)

*In case you were wondering we’re taking a brief break from cloth diapers.  Not being able to hang the diapers on the line due to weather, has resulted in diaper rash :(  I’ll be getting those cute buns in cotton soon enough.

chicken chronicles

Our ladies are finally laying.  At least the first batch are.  We lost one :(  so we have 4 laying hens and 5 soon to lay pullets.  Chickens grow up SO fast.  Remember the last post about our new chicks?  Now look at them!  We have 4 Americaunas and 5 Black Australorps.  I tell ya, they are smart little escape artists.  The older ones have given us a run for our money.  One named Dot in particular, and Clara coming in as the second most mischievous chicken.  Who knew chickens could be such trouble makers?  You fix the problem and they find a loop hole, especially if they can see greener plant on the other side.

Things I’ve learned while raising chickens:

1.  They literally fly the coop.

2.  They are partial to strawberries (including the leaves) and parsley.

3.  They like to peck a hole in each tomato they can.

4.  They are very smart and super curious.  Did you know you can train them?

5.  They know my voice and come to it.  I love calling them from the window and watch them look for me.  I know, real mature huh?

6.  They attract more flies than horses.  I didn’t see that one coming.

7.  They make barking type sounds for no reason (like a yappy dog sound).

8.  They are the best at putting themselves to bed (if only the kids would call it a day a dusk).

9.  They love to dig themselves holes to lay in (like a dog, again).

10.  Putting a worm in the coop in fun to watch and great for the garden.

I have been enjoying raising these girls.  I love to see the process and recycling that comes with them as well.  They eat our scraps, I compost the waste, the compost fertilizes the garden, chickens we eat the garden, and around it goes.  So loving it all.  Considering all the frustrations and the joys, it is well worth the effort for me.  Just today I was two eggs short of a recipe so I sent Isabel out to check for eggs.  She came in with three.  Again, love it.

girls in the garden

This morning Nick and Andre went off to work like men, and the girls took advantage of the babe napping.  I tended and weeded while Isabel picked and the little girls watered themselves the garden.  I even got in a phone conversation as we worked side-by-side.  Seedlings are planted for some fall/winter gardening, and we are enjoying the hard work we’ve put in with each bowl of garden goodies that make their way in the house.  It is so satisfying to see the rewards of hard work.  It’s not satisfying in a proud way (because I know just who controls the weather and the growth), but in a way of thankfulness and excitement.

With good there is sometimes bad.  We lost our pumpkin, crooked neck squash, acorn squash, and cucumbers to powdery mildew.  I am thankful that we got harvests from all of these plants before they died.  Really, gardening is a learn-as-you-go experience.  Now, I know the early signs and what to do next season.  I also have a better understanding on what I want to plant more/less of.  Fall plans are carrots, onions, broccoli, lettuce, cucumbers, and possible potatoes (checking up on that).  What will you be planting for the Autumn season?

in the kitchen

As the garden goodies come in, we’re busy turning them into yummy food.

::Pesto from River Cottage Preserves made to freeze from our basil and marigolds.

::Lemon Meringue Pie courtesy of our dear hens.

::Fresh salsa made from the tomatoes, onions, green peppers, oregano and jalapeno we’ve been gathering.

All the scraps are headed straight to the compost.

 

What’s coming out of your kitchen lately?

 

baby hats

Another Aviatrix has made it’s way from sheep to skein to needles to (soon) a baby’s sweet soft head.  This is such a fun and cute hat that it has been the choice for two baby showers in a row.  I still need to make one for my dear little boy before the cool air hits.

Guess what else.  I learned how to make pom poms, which I dare say will be upon the heads of many children in this house.  For now it will be given to yet another baby soon to be born.  So many babies are coming soon.  And all boys!  It’s a good thing I don’t mind one bit sitting and knitting in front of the cooler in the middle of the hot mosquito occupied summer.

everlasting slouch cap

Abbreviations: CO- Cast on  co- cast off R- round P- Purl K- Knit K2tog- Knit two together M1- Make one (with left needle pick up the stitch below the last knitted stich on the right needle and knit it.)  This is an increase of one st. C2-cable two (put first st on cable needle and let drop to the front of your work. Knit next st as usual, then knit the st on the cable needle.)

::Everlasting Slouch Cap (One hat for a lifetime)::

I created this pattern to be appealing to all ages.  If you knit this hat as written, it will fit ages two through adult.   You can add stripes, a colored brim, pom-poms or crocheted flowers to give your hat more interest.

Materials:

 1 skein of worsted weight yarn

½ skein of worsted weight yarn in a contrasting color (optional)

Pom-pom maker or cardboard dics.

Scissors

Darning needle

#9 (5.5cm) circular knitting needles

#9 (5.5) DPNs -set of 5 (or use magic loop method)

Cable needle (or a skewer cut to 4 inches long)

 

Pattern:

CO 58 sts on your circular needles.  (Use MC for stripes and solid versions and CC for duel tone version) Join to knit in the round. Place marker at beginning of R.

 

Brim:

R1-3 *K2, P2* repeat from *

R4 *C2, P2* repeat from *

R5-7 *K2, P2* repeat from *

R8 *C2, P2* repeat from *

R9-11 *K2, P2* repeat from *

R12 *C2, P2* repeat from *

Hat Body Increases:

*You will knit two rows of contrast color (CC) and 4 rounds of main color (MC) if you choose to do stripes. 

R13 (Switch to CC if doing stripes or MC of doing duel tone.) K all sts.

R14 *K4, M1* repeat from * (70 sts on needle now) (switch back to MC if doing stripes.)

 

R15 K all sts

R16 *K5, M1* repeat from * (84 sts on needle)

Hat Body:

R17 K all sts.

R18 K all sts (switch back to CC if doing stripes.)

Repeat this pattern (or continue with solid color) until hat measure 8.5 inches (20.5cm) from the CO edge.

Hat Body Decreases

R1 *K2, K2tog*  repeat from * until last 2 sts.  K2 (63 sts now)

R2 K all sts

R3 *K2 K2tog* repeat until last st, K1. (49 sts now)

R4 K all sts

If you are using DPNs switch to them now.  Place 12 on 3 needles and 13 on one needle when you knit R5.

R5 K all sts

R6 K2tog to end (If using DPNs and you reach the last st and you need to K2tog, simply slip the stitch to the next needle and K2tog).

Break yarn leaving an 8” tail.  Close top, and weave in ends.

Attach a pom-pom if desired.  Enjoy this hat year after year!

 

 

{this moment}

in the kitchen

Not too much to report here.  When have been in the middle of just about everything here.  From sewing, to day trips to kitchen additions (pics to come soon), to visits from dear friends and family, it’s been an active month!  All the amazing things that have come from the kitchen haven’t gotten photographed (mainly due to the poor lighting that occurs late at night).

Just yesterday we happened upon some apples from our dear neighbor, and I made stale bread into croutons.  It’s not so exciting.  I feel in my being plenty of baking and cooking coming on soon though.  That what happens in the cooler months.  I can’t seem to stop searching for one more thing to make.  This applies both in the kitchen and on the couch…knitting.

And you?  What are your favorite Autumn and Winter activities?

 

picture post

What have you been doing to savor the last moment of Summer?

autumn knitting

I realize it’s not Autumn yet, but I feel it coming.  The nights are getting cooler (sort of), and the days aren’t as hot.  I know.  I’m pushing for Fall to come sooner than it will.  And what better way to coax in the season than knitting a sweater?  I’ve been eyeing this one for months now, and finally bit the bullet.  I chose to knit this Jane Richmond Oatmeal Pullover just one day before I found her new Ravelry page.  Perfect timing!  If I get stuck I just know these sweet ladies will rescue me from my knitting woes.

What’s on your needles, sewing table, crochet hook, ect for Autumn?

 

 

cinnamon mocha frosting

Chocolate cake anyone?  How about chocolate cake with cinnamon mocha frosting?  Yes, please!  This is by far the yummiest frosting I’ve come up with so far.  I love being inspired by the large variety of extracts that supermarkets carry now-a-days.  Cinnamon extract coupled with chocolate and coffee struck one of those “eating cake for breakfast isn’t bad” thoughts in me.  I so concluded that it was true. I ate cake for second breakfast this morning…just as soon as Nick left the house to run errands.  Is that bad?

For my lovely readers…the recipe.

 

Ingredients:

1 c softened butter

2 c shortening

1/2 tsp cinnamon extract

1 1/2 tsp vanilla

1/4 c baking cocoa

2lb bag powdered shortening

1/2 c strong brewed coffee (cooled)

 

Directions:

1.  Cream shortening and butter together.  Add vanilla, cinnamon extract.

2.  Add half the sugar and mix well.

3. Add cocoa and half the coffee.

4.  Mix in the rest of the sugar until smooth.  You can add more sugar or coffee (or milk) until you reach the desired texture.

5.  Eat while frosting cake or cupcakes, and while no one’s looking, and sometimes for breakfast.

aviatrix, the third

I guess this is the go-to baby hat this season.  Finally, after making two as gifts, Desmond has his very own aviatrix.  Cascades 220 wool (my fav) makes this cute hat soft as well.  Seriously?  Is there a cuter 17 month old alive?  I think not.  Warm heads for cool weather.  That’s our motto around here.

organized your life

I happened upon the Organizing Life as Mom e-book recently and knew I needed to download immediately.  I also added the home school packet.  Included with lots of great tips and insight, are numerous printable worksheets, charts, calendars, menu plan sheets, budgeting, cleaning, trip planning, holiday planning, birthdays, ect.  Seriously, there are more organizing sheets than I can even use.  This lady thought of just about everything.

Download yours today and get your life in order!

 

I receive nothing at all for endorsing this product.  I simply love it and want to share the wisdom it contains.

feather and fan pom-pom hat

Tags

hat, knit hat, knitting

A little improvised hat for Miss Isabel.  Can you tell she enjoyed the photo shoot?  Silly girl :)  My obsession with pom-pom is becoming out-of-control.  I need help.  I’m crying out for help.  Intervention please…just as soon as my boys have pom-pom hats I will stop.  Maybe.

What’s on your needles, and in your plans for Fall and Winter knitting?  I do hope it involves pom-poms.

 

31 days: Lesson 1

This evening I sit in my bed with a cold foot; listening to loud music, children going in and out of the house, a child having a tantrum, and a husband asking questions of various types while he makes dinner.  I’m reminded in the most real of ways that I am blessed.  I it take for granted too.

Let’s rewind back to yesterday afternoon if we could.  This will make much more sense then.  Promise.

Yesterday afternoon was pretty much like every afternoon here.  It was “quiet time” and no one was actually being quiet.  I leapt from the couch to shoo a couple of little girls back into bed, and part of my body didn’t follow.  I caught my middle right foot toe (or right foot 3rd digit to all you medical buffs) on the couch.  It jammed, it twisted, it cracked, it HURT!  I iced, I elevated, I missed a football game, I went to bed.

Today it was no better.  I headed to the ER for an X-Ray.  I wondered why it is that when I get hurt I get ridiculously hurt.  Like the time 3.5 years ago when I was 8 months pregnant with Josie and I sprained my ankle.  A whale on crutches with 3 little ones tagging along side (I’m sure) is not the prettiest sight.

I got myself checked in and waited.

I saw a baby in triage with a yucky rash, and a poor and ragged old man getting some sort of infusion.  I sat there knitting- and grateful for some quiet knitting time I might add.  With every stitch I felt the Lord tugging on my heart.  I’m not that hurt and I should be grateful…and not just for the knitting time.

The single mom with the baby has it hard.  The poor old man has serious problems.  God has truly given me a life more abundant.  I don’t mean my life is better than theirs, just that I have a really awesome life.  More awesome than I deserve.  Me, the mom who was so upset that her quiet time was being interrupted that she hurt her toe on the way to raise her voice to little girls that were out of bed.  That girl.  That girl was given more than she should have been given.

It got worse too.  I waited for an hour for the x-ray tech.  In that time another women came in.  Severe back pain.  Allergic to literally every kind of pain medicine.  Has she had any surgeries?  Yes, ovarian cancer led to hysterectomy, and a brain surgery.  She fell 5 weeks ago and again 2 weeks ago. She’s been in bed for 5 day in excruciating pain. Her doctor told her that she should go to the ER every time she falls but “that would mean I’d be here everyday”.  Wow.  My heart really sunk.  I began to pray for this women as I sat.

I knew as I waited there for a very long amount of time in our quaint little hospital (which is eerily slow) that God was allowing me to wait there for a really good reason.  I need to see how much God has done for me, and how much people out there need his love and his grace.

At the end of my little trip my heart was full of intent on appreciating this life, and sharing it with others.  After all what is a toe with torn ligaments compared to lives with no hope and no joy?

John 10:10

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.(KJV)

Learning lessons isn’t always fun, but a lesson learned has great value and great effect in our hearts.  God teaches me lessons everyday. Some small, some big.  What will I learn tomorrow?

31 days: lesson 2, set the mood

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31 days

I have heard comments over the years about “A women’s attitude sets the tone of the house”, “If mama ain’t happy- ain’t nobody happy”.  I think you all can relate to such sayings.   Today I have learned relearned this truth.  I will interject that if you are the main caregiver this applies to you.  Male or female.  As I have mentioned, I am supposed to be “off my feet” for another 24 hours.  What this means in our house is that Nick has been doing things like cooking a little and dishes, getting up when kids need something ect.

I can tell that since he is not used to doing these duties (often at the same time- multitasking is not in a man’s nature) frustration is happening quickly.  I don’t say this to put him down, but merely to prove a point…to myself.  As the person hearing commotion of children fighting and asking for things constantly while an adult is trying to complete a task…I know for a fact that this is exactly how I sound too.  I think I have set the standard of what is acceptable to lose patience on, in regards to children.  Eye opener.  I sound like a nagging, impatient mom who does not enjoy her kids as she should, and wants desperately for them to sleep and read at certain blocked out times.  He didn’t sound that bad, but just hearing a hint of it felt like looking at an ugly creature in the mirror.  I am the equivalent of Gollum.

A few things come to mind.  I’m selfish.  I’m impatient.  I need a break, but not at the cost of quality time with my kids.  My first ministry is my family, and often times I fall very short of serving them to the best of my ability.

I desire to be the kind of mother that listens to her children with a caring ear.  I want to be a wife who doesn’t get annoyed if asked to do something as soon as I sit down.  I want to go the extra mile even if it costs me time or sleep.

^{1 Corinthians 13:4-7}

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, 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.”

I know I can’t do it on my own, but I also know that the Holy Spirit working in me can.  I close out this day with high hopes and strong prayers of implementing actions to thoughts.  I am in no way under the illusion that from this day forth I will never do wrong again.  However,  I sincerely yearn to change.  The mood in a home can have a great effect on all that dwell in it.  My prayer is to set the mood of loving nurture in the humblest and most grace-filled way…by seeking God to direct my heart into submission.

31 days: lesson 3

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31 days

This was a whopper of a day.  Nick and I, and some friends cleaned and painted a house that’s about to go on the market.  All 5 kids joined as well. It was tiring. I went with snacks and schoolwork and Go-Pod… and the knowledge that half my day wouldn’t be spent disciplining and re-directing kids away from the paint.  I was overly prepared, and pleasantly surprised.

The snacks were great, but no one got bored enough to be sent off with a book and a math lesson.  The babies were happy to sit and watch the big kids climbing trees while they threw rocks and other such things.  Seven hours of playing mostly outside.  I love that kids find a million things to do with zero toys in sight.  I really want them to have a huge yard to do this in everyday.  When we bought this house over a year ago, we knew that the yard was way too small for us.  It wasn’t big enough for the kids, my dream garden, the fruit trees I wanted, the bees I would love to keep, the goats I want (for milk and cheese), the chicken raising I envisioned (big flock), the sheep- wool and spinning to sustain the knitting addiction, yes please!  The point is, we committed ourselves to take the kids to the park (which is one block away) everyday…3 times a week…once a week…whenever we got a chance :(  And the rest would just have to wait.  Doesn’t life just get busy?  Don’t babies fall asleep at the perfect time for kids to play outside at the park?

Anyhow, the house we have, we love.  We have done our very best to make our small plot of land as fruitful for us as possible.  We have made many improvements to the inside as well.  I have been learning over the past few weeks that Nick is never going to be the “farming type” and we will likely never be able to afford the land with a big enough house for our big family.  That’s okay.  I understand that this desire (and a strong one at that) for “wide open spaces” will either fade in time, or God will provide the way.  Contentment is the word for the day.  What matters most is that in whatever we do, we are serving the Lord.  Whatever we have or get…we’ll use with discernment, giving Him the first fruits of our labor.  Making sound financial decisions with any “extra” money we get.

Proverbs 3:9-11

“Honor the LORD with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;
then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine.

  My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline,
and do not resent his rebuke,
because the LORD disciplines those he loves,
as a father the son he delights in.”

I read that this morning, and it kept.  I have learned a lesson in contentment and waiting, and I really delighted in my children today.  Also, I’m not going to whine about wanting a farm anymore.  I got a spiritual spanking today.  I have not been content, and I should be.  How wonderful a life and how cute a house, and how great the grace that has been given to me.

My children were wonderful today too…

 …Although there was that moment when they caught a dozen giant grasshoppers and shut Desmond in the closet with them.  But lets not mention that.  Lets focus on them entertaining themselves for hours and getting along well while doing it.

31 days: lesson 4, rise up

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31 days

I have never been a morning person.  Never.  I once had a job where I had to be there by 5am.  I thought I was going to die after 2 months.  I switched to a job that started at 10am…and I had to set my alarm clock.  I kept that job for 3 years until Isabel was born.  I was told that once the baby came I wouldn’t be able to sleep in again even if the baby was sleeping.  Not true.  I think I have grown up so much since high school, but I could probably steal sleep until noon.  I would much rather stay up late than get up early.  What am I talking about?  Why does it matter?

Over the last month or so I have been getting up around 6:00-6:30am!  Why you say?  Because the bottom line is I need a time of prayer and Bible before the kids are awake.  I dig it.  It still takes Nick a few nudges to get me going though.  So what’s the lesson?  Getting up early is crucial to my time with Jesus, thus my attitude with my family.  I am more prepared for each day.  I don’t get awakened by a child who already has a list of demands…that can make a non-morning person even less excited to get up.

For years I tried to point out that I was just never a morning person and that’s just how I am.  It didn’t matter when I had my time so long as I did have my time.  I could stay up late and do the same thing.  Right?  Nope.  Nick kindly pointed out that only people who want to sleep in say that.  The truth is that for years my devotional life has been hit and miss because once I got going I didn’t stop.  Now, I look forward to early mornings spending time with Jesus and my husband.  This is important for you too.  Get up at least 1 hour before you think the kids will.  Have your quiet time and plan out your day.  Stop quoting Proverbs 27:14 “He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him”…to your overly happy morning-person husband.  (See even the Bible says I should sleep in…lol)

“And Abraham gat up early in the morning to the place where he stood before the LORD:”  Genesis 19:25

“My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.”  Psalm 5:3

“And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he (Jesus) went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.”  Mark 1:5

A sacrifice of time and sleep can greatly bless your life.  You are officially challenged :)  Get up!  Time to wake up!  Rise and shine!

 

*Tip: drinking coffee instead of missing out on Jesus is a good price to pay.  My coffee drinking has commenced yet again.  Even bought a coffee maker ;)

 

 

31 days: lesson 5, be teachable

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31 days

I suppose this should have been the very first post.  One of the greatest and most important lessons I have ever learned is that I need to be teachable and moldable.  Humility while learning is even more important.  Knowledge without humility is nothing more than pride and arrogance.  And those two things lead to thinking you are better than other people…which is bad too.

Proverbs 16:19
Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

Proverbs 9:9
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

Matthew 11:29
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

Philippians 4:9
Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

That’s it.  Nothing long or complicated.  Just be humble and teachable, using what you know for good.  Given yesterday’s post I think you know where and whom to learn from :)

 

31 days: lesson 6, persevere

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31 days

One of the most tangible lessons I learned as a new Christian was the idea of perseverance.  Keep going for Jesus even when it’s so much easier to give up and do what we want.  I had come across some tough opposition and didn’t really know when or if it would ever end.  I was single then, and having really difficult family drama.   I had a couple of flat tires (and I was flat broke), I was having a hard time finding a job that would give me the hours I needed, and a bunch of other little things that kept coming up.  None of them were as big a deal individually, but all at the same time.  The constant “one thing after another” seemed overwhelming.  I felt like if one more thing happened I wouldn’t be able to handle it.  A dear friend and mentor showed be a couple of verses that still speak to me whenever life gets to be a bit much.

Matthew 11:29-30

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Hebrews 12:1-3

 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.  For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

 

I know I shared the first with you just yesterday, but that’s the same verse that was shared with be over 11 years ago.  I’ll never forget what that meant to me in the middle of a big trial, seasoned with lot of little discouragements.  You know what?  I made it through that trial and all the little things that were going wrong were corrected as well.  As the years have passed (and time literally seems to “fly by” as soon as you hit your twenties) I still hold on to those verses when thing get tough.  We all have moments and seasons which seem to be a never-ending pouring out of bad news.  Hold to Jesus the author and finisher of your faith.  He never fails to make things turn out better than we hoped, if we would just come to Him and let Him teach us.  His yoke is easy.

Just a couple of months ago a serious “game changer” happened upon our family.  One of those turn-your-world-upside-down things.  But, in just a couple of months things are looking as great as they can.  It seems Nick and I are in the middle of a never-ending bombardment of honestly tricky and complicated ministry.  I know that Jesus always gets me through.  I have learned so often that He is able.  No matter how bleak, dire, hopeless, or taxing a situation is, there is always a plan.  I don’t know what the plan is, but God has proven himself trustworthy and constant time and again.  Always.  All I have to do is not give up.  Persevere.

31 days: lesson 7 you are what you eat.

First, I apologize for the silence here.  Second, my husband pointed out that the last post before the silence was all about perseverance. ;{  So, whatever the reasons were for the silence, they don’t matter in light of that do they?  Moving right along.

Who wants to be a bleached, fried potato with a side of high fructose corn syrup?  Not I!

In the past year Nick and I have been watching our share of food documentaries…often while snacking on the very things that are mentioned in the movie as poison. * Ahem* We have been learning (more than we’d like to know) about eating healthier.  Now that we know better, I feel obligated to do something about it.  Part of the reason I try to make everything possible from scratch is because it’s better for you.  I know exactly what’s in it, and I can control the sugar and salt ect.  The other part is that it’s almost always less expensive to make something rather than to buy it.  Homemade tastes better too.  That’s  3/3 reasons to make it yourself.  The only reason why I sometimes don’t is because I lack the energy.  (Self, please refer to lesson 6.  Thanks)

I could go on about high fructose corn syrup, bleached flour, dairy and meat  full of antibiotics and hormones, produce sprayed with pesticides or grown in contaminated water, and a host of GMOs that would weird you out…but I won’t.  Plenty of other people have.  The internet and library are swelling with knowledge.  So here’s something I’ve learned.  Not everything that tastes good is good for you.  Likewise, things that are good for you don’t have to taste bad.  I care deeply about the flavor the food I make takes.  I’m kind of nutty about it actually.  I have to remind myself that I don’t have to make the world’s best______________the very first time I try.

What I have learned about fat has changed my outlook on it.  After all the basic building blocks for a cell are Carbohydrates, proteins, lipids (fat), and nucleic acids.  Clicking any of these molecular groups will give you basic lists of food to eat in each group.  I am showing great restraint right now.  The inner nerd is fighting to come out at this moment.  I really want to explain why you need to have a balanced diet of these things, but can tell you don’t want me too.  Trust me.  Microbiology excites me.

I’m not afraid of fats (within reason and certain oils only), I have learned that the only way to get the vitamins you need is by eating fruits and vegetables (or pills/liquid form ect), Carbs are not bad (but processed and genetically modified ones are) protein can come from dairy and nuts, and beans (which is why we’ve become nearly vegetarians).  I could really elaborate forever on this.  I think you get the point though.  We are not eating healthier because we have to.  We want to.  We don’t roll our eyes at people who don’t.  We don’t to it to save the planet, we don’t do it to lose weight, we don’t even to it because it’s becoming “cool”.  Simply put…we have changed our eating habits because we want to be good stewards of our bodies.  The food we eat should be as close to the way God intended it to be (minimal to no processing with nothing added by man).

This concludes rambles lesson 7.  Eat well.

 

 

31 days: lesson 8, being flexible

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31 days

The simple fact that I must be flexible is hard for me to grasp.  I love making plans and lists, and I love to follow said plans and lists.  When I set a goal, I like to accomplish it.  I find satisfaction in checking things off and achieving all I set out to do.  I don’t know when exactly it happened, but sometime around the 3.5 child born I really had to be okay with things not being perfect in my home.

I realized that I put lots of pressure on myself to clean the entire house top-to-bottom every week, do every bit of laundry and put it away, be at every church event, go to every shower or party I was invited to, spend spare moments tending to my husband, and never run out of anything we needed for the household ever!  That pressure got to me at least once a month (guess when).  I’ve learned over the years to just chill out and not be so regimented.  Relax a bit.  I’ve opted to have a personal quiet time when the kids do instead of using that time for work.  The result has been great for my sanity.

I won’t lie.  There’s always dishes to get done at night, and laundry to fold while spending time with my husband.  The house never gets a complete scrubbing every week, I don’t make it to everything on the calendar, I substitute ingredients for what ever I have on hand, and we run out of coffee creamer.  I’ve even worried if we had enough toilet paper to last until the next day.  One thing that makes all of these inconveniences worth it, is that I can take a deep breath and feel more graceful in running the household.  I no longer feel like I’m on the edge of a breakdown.  I don’t get anxious if I go to bed with dishes in the sink.  If I meal plan, and then I don’t have time– due to the days events– for “Tuesday tacos”, no big deal.  I have what I need for spaghetti. Go with the flow.

Let me just point out a little something before you think I’ve gone hoarder-relaxed, or nothing-to-eat calm, or everyone’s out of underwear.  I plan still.  I’ve mentioned before that I am loving Organizing Life as Mom.  I plan out my days and weeks.  I make my shopping and packing lists.  I just don’t follow it to-the-tee.  I use it as a wonderful guideline to help me see in plain writing what “the plan” is.  I don’t allow myself to feel defeated and less of a wife if it doesn’t all get done.  If a friend needs me, I throw out the plan for the day.  If Nick wants to pack up and have a family day, I don’t say “no” because it’s laundry day.  If I set out to write a post everyday for a month and only seem to write half of the posts because we get sick and life happens, and ministry gets tough– that’s okay.  I am still a work-in-progress, but I’ve learned to be more flexible in life.  The more you’re stretchy like a rubber band, the less you’ll snap like a stick.  That’s better for everyone right?

2 Corinthians 12:9

 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

the graduate

The family headed to New Mexico for a long weekend getaway.  The main event of the trip was the graduation of my brother-in-law from the US Border Patrol Academy.

Graduating from one of the country’s most difficult training programs is quite the accomplishment.  Congratulations to him and his family.  Two more months of Spanish classes and he’ll be home and in the field.

rae

A little road trip goes a long way in sock yarn knitting.  The is Jane Richmond’s Rae.  I participated in A KAL (knit-a-long).  Crossing fingers to win some lovely yarn and patterns.  Ahh.  Fall knitting, I love you.

october: national dwarfism awareness month

As of June, Miss Josie became an official member of The Little People of America (LPA).  Since she was 7 months old we have known that she has a very rare form of dwarfism called Metatropic Dysplasia.  She’s the 82nd recorded case in the world.  October is the month that the LPA is claiming as National Dwarfism Awareness Month.  It is officially recognized in 4 states, with a legal recognition in the making for each of the 50 states.  The purpose can be found here.

So, this is Josie.  We love her dearly.  She is like every other child, except she’s a 1/6,000,000 kind of kid.  :)

For more details about our journey raising a child with Metatropic Dysplasia, head over to “Josie News” in the

picture post

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harvest, Photography

“Do you not say, ‘Four months more and then the harvest‘? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” John 4:35

“Then He said to them, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”   Luke 10:2

 

in the garden: autumn

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autumn, gardening

:: 8 romaine

:: 8 swiss chard

:: 8 red leaf

:: 8 broccoli

:: 1 rhubarb

:: Some left over peppers and turnips, and ever-bearing strawberries.

:: Bulbs being planted for a colorful Spring.

:: Hoping for onions and garlic.

The beginnings of our Autumn gardening adventures.

diy mason jar planter

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diy, gardening, herbs, indoor gardening, mason jars, pinterest

About one week ago I took the plunge and joined Pinterest.  Nick had been telling me about it for a couple of months, and people were linking to my Strip the Square Baby! Knitting pattern, but I resisted.  I glanced at it and thought, “I don’t need another website to follow.”

But, I gave in.  I made a couple of ideas from it already, including this addition to the kitchen.

Nick did the drilling by-the-way.  I made good use of jars I’ve saved but can’t can with, and mason jars that have gotten chipped and are no longer safe for food storage.  The seeds are planted, and I can’t wait until my kitchen is filled with green fragrant herbs in the Autumn and Winter seasons.

If you haven’t joined Pinterest yet, you should.

healthy whole wheat bread, that doesn’t taste like cardboard

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bread machine recipe, bread making, homemade bread, whole wheat bread, zojirushi

Over the past three and a half years I’ve been making homemade bread.  The first few months were spent doing it “old school”.  Hand kneading, punching it down, shaping ect.  Although I believe that that way is the best way, I needing a time-saving alternative so that I wouldn’t be tempted to buy bread.

I’ve had my Zojirushi Home Bakery Supreme for three years and I LOVE it.  Dump everything and don’t think about for 3.5 hours.  I love that it has a timer too.  I can put everything in and set it to be done by the time I wake up in the morning.

This has taken years of perfecting and tweaking.  It was a recipe copied from a book and given to me by a friend.  The copy doesn’t say what book it’s from…sorry :(  I have added so much to it that it’s pretty much mine anyways.  I hope you love it as much as we do.

* This is a 2.5 pound loaf recipe.  If you have a smaller bread machine, or if you’re doing it “old school”, double the recipe and it will give you 3 loaves.  I wouldn’t recommend subtracting because baking is a science, and you may not be happy with the results.

Here goes…

1.5 C water

1/4 C honey

3 T unsweetened apple sauce

1 t salt

2 T soy letchin

2 T whole flax seed

3 T unsalted sunflower seeds

4 T gluten flour

1.  Place all these ingredients in the bread machine.

Get out your 1 C measuring cup.  In it put:

2 T almond meal

2 T wheat germ

2 T oat bran

3.  Fill the rest of the measuring cup with whole wheat flour (I’ve been using white whole wheat, either King Arthur Flour or Trader Joe’s and they give consistantly good results when other brands have not).

Measuring exactly is very important in baking FYI.  Scrape off the excess with a straight object, and place in the pan on top of the other ingredients.  I like to put everything right in the middle of the pan.  You’ll need as high a mound as you can get for your yeast later.

4.  Add 3 C more white whole wheat flour.  Straight flour, nothing else.

5.  Add 2 t dry active yeast on top of the mound in the machine.  I make a little crater and place it in there so that it never gets wet until the machine starts kneading.  I like quick rise bread machine yeast because the bread doesn’t get funky if it’s too cold or too hot in the kitchen.

Great result each time.

6.  Set the machine for whole wheat and let ‘r rip.  (or turn on the timer for tomorrow)

7.  Eat delicious bread that’s cheaper and better for you than store bought bread.  :)

 

knitting stripes the right way

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how to knit stripes, knit stripes, knitting

I’m in love with Judy.  I learned how to knit by watching her videos.  She’s like my extra grandma.  My own grandma is a seamstress extraordinaire, and I love her.  So, Judy is being grafted into my family for her marvelous FREE knitting videos.  Here’s her video on how to make perfect stripes in your projects (completely even with no seam).

Enjoy!

sewing snippets: Finish a seam without a serger

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serger, sewing seams, sewing tip

I don’t have a serger.  I would love a serger, but it’s not in the budget.  Sewing pants for babies and PJ’s for myself has taught me something important.  Strong seams are very important.  No one wants to split their pants.  No one.

I’m not sure if I completely made up this technique or if I just thought of it also.  I haven’t ever seen this anywhere, so I thought I’d share it here.  Instead of stitching over the same place twice, I fold the seam over and sew it again.  I love this because (like a serged edge) it doesn’t become a unraveling mess.  I have used pinking shears and still get a tangle of seam after multiple washings.

This is also a super strong seam.

I hope that helps you in your Handmade Christmas sewing.  If you’ve seen this before please leave a link in the comments box.  I would love to see if anyone has a different variation.

I used the ruler to show you that you fold the seam INWARD before you finish the seam.

Your finished seam.

Here's the other side of the finished seam. See how closely the stitches are?

I sure hope this helps you as much as it does me.

vintage oatmeal: a sweater

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berroco vintage chunky, Jane Richmond pattern, knit sweater, knitting, yarn

My first big girl knitting project is off the needles.  This is my Vintage Oatmeal.  It’s not perfect, but for a first adult sweater it’s absolutely snugly and wearable.

Details on Ravelry.

 

our super boy turns 7

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birthday, vintage superhero

Andre turned seven.  He has given us seven energetic, spontaneous, goofy, silly, emotional fun-filled years.  I love this sweet and tender child so very much.  Our little hero is soaring closer and closer to grown up. I can’t wait to see what kind of man he’ll be.

 

 

what’s josie up to?

Tags

dwarfism, josie, metatropic dysplasia, physical therapy, PT

Josie has started physical therapy here.  She loves Monica.  I love that Monica trained with a specialist in bone lengthening, who saw many paitients with dwarfism.  She came all the way from Florida.  I think she was sent for a purpose.

God is great.  He seems to be providing Josie the care she needs even though we’re in a rural area.  As a mother, I couldn’t be more excited.

when it’s quiet

Tags

christmas crafts, handmade christmas, ministry, quiet

I thought I’d share a few words on silence.  The quiet I’m referring to is the quiet that mysteriously fall upon this place.  My goal is to post 4-5 times per week, but that doesn’t seem to happen much.

The main reason is ministry.  I want to tell you that I don’t mean I blame ministry.  Not in the sense of complaining.  After all, spreading the gospel is on the top 5 important things in my life.  Simply put, ministry gets busy.  The more people God adds to our flock, the more dinners, meetings, counseling, events, friendships, rough patches, ect are adding to our already full life.

I am blessed by the work that is taking place in our town.  People’s lives are changing. Christians are digging deeper into the Truth.  That’s what God can do through willing hearts and faithful people.  These wonderful people have been put under our care.  I’m still trying to figure out why us.  The only answer I can come up with is…because.  Because He said so :)

Why am I sharing this with all of you?  I just want to let you know that even if you don’t hear from me, it doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten you.  All it means is that somewhere in the middle of Women’s Bible Study, a church potluck, and counseling a broken heart…I didn’t get the laundry, dishes, school, or cooking done.  I’m using my usual “blog time” to fulfill some responsibility and maybe even the occasional rest.

I really miss you friend.  I hope we can share all sorts of fun Christmas crafting soon…just as soon as I get some more done.

I worked on headbands last week(8 down, 2 to go), and eye masks.  Next on the list…wallets and car cozies.  And certainly some knitted hats.  How are you doing?

 

 

 

15 last minute gifts for the non-crafty: a linked list

Tags

boy gifts, handmade christmas, link list, man gifts

Yesterday I realized there is less than two weeks until Christmas.  I thought I’d make a linked list for those of you who may not sew, knit, or ”craft”.  So, even if you aren’t the handmade kind, you can still join in on our Handmade Christmas fun.

Click on any of the titles below, and go directly to the website.

1.  A Year of Sugar Scrubs: 24 original recipes

2.  Organic Homemade Lip Balm Recipes Click here for more lip balm labels and recipes

3.  Christmas Candy Recipes: fudge, peppermint bark, brittle, ect.

4.  Homemade Bath Soaks- using epsom salts more bath Salts and Soaks

5.  DIY Finger Paints

6.  Eight Gift Ideas From Your Kitchen

7.  DIY Oils for Skin and Home

8.  Terrariums

9.  Recipe Organizer

10.  48 Gifts in a Jar

11.  Homemade Marshmallows

12.  Spice and Herb Mixes

13.  Super Cute Paper Dolls to Print  more found Here

14.  Slightly more complicated Gifts for Boys

15.  Marble Magnets

 

Click here for a website full of FREE printable tags, decor, labels, ect to make all your gifts look extra special.

Mountain Rose Herbs has lots of great packaging for lip balm, and carries bulk herbs.

Bulk Herb Store is my favorite shop for herbs, teas, and spices.

The Paper Source has a great variety of colorful stick labels…along with tons of great paper and envelopes.

 

I hope you have so much fun creating gifts for those you love.

 

I don’t know what I did

Tags

handmade christmas

Christmas morning had me very excited, and slightly anxious.  After many hours and weeks of trying to squeeze in every spare moment into Christmas crafting, I had come to realize I wasn’t going to accomplish all my goals.

I had everything done for all our kids’ stockings.  I was dead tired on Christmas Eve.  We had a wonderful kids Christmas program, and we went to Tata and Nana’s after for albondigas and tamales (a mexican tradition).  It was quite late when we got home.  11pm or so (yikes!).  There was no more time for sewing up last-minute projects.  We had also feverishly tried to adopt a puppy as the “big” gift for the family.  That fell through.

I stuffed the stockings and felt a wee bit sad that I couldn’t give them more.  I think as a parent I just wanted this to be the best Christmas ever.  When I was out of money and out of time (for crafting the supplies I had) I felt like a didn’t live up to my expectations.  I just prayed that the gifts they were given by everyone else would “make up for it”.

Christmas morning was filled with bustling and excitement.  Everyone was so thrilled to wake up to full stockings and a few presents under the tree.  As the kiddos dug down to the bottom of their fluffy socks, they filled my heart with pride and joy.  Each one was so very pleased and thankful for every item.  At the end I told them that was the presents from us, and they all said “Thank you!”

With big smiles and sweet hearts.  They exceeded was I expected.

I don’t know what I did to deserve such appreciative children, but I’m glad I have them.

one thing i realized

Nick left Monday for a week-long trip to Kino Bay, Mexico.  He is helping a missionary network with other churches across the line.  He’s suffering, I’m sure, by the ocean with his brother and a few other sweet people, eating great food and enjoying quiet moments.

Here’s the point.  Ever since he’s been gone I realized that I cook for Nick.  I cook for everyone really, but I aim  to please him.  I guess I’m not the type who makes meals because I know the kids will love it.  I’ve faced the fact that I try to impress him.  This is why I’ve had zero motivation to make nice meals this week.

The kids won’t appreciate if I make a beautiful roast or stir fry or any gourmet dish– so I’m not bothering.  It’s all taquitos, popcorn, nachos and other nonsense around here until his return.

What kinds of food to you make when the man is gone?  I could use some ideas :)