Life in the Tribe

I've moved!

2008-08-23T22:09:00.001-04:00

Blogger has been wonderful but I have moved over to wordpress as that was somehow integrated or something with hubby's web hosting stuff. I don't worry about how it works. I married tech support for a reason. Hee hee.

So the new blog is at:

www.burroughstribe.com

Thanks!

Funny Shoes...

2008-08-19T14:47:00.002-04:00

I told the kiddos to get ready to go outside......imagine a mad rush through the house to get shoes on.

Hannah, 2, comes up to me and informs she can not find her shoes. I remind her that she wore them today to the store and library.

Me: Do you think your shoes are in the living room?

H: Yes ma'am.

Me: Why don't you go get your shoes?

H: They are hiding.

Me: Your shoes are hiding?

H: Yes ma'am. They funny shoes.

Ok. Great. Now I understand. We have lots of funny shoes in this house.

Upcoming post...

2008-08-18T21:12:00.002-04:00

My Lydia Lu celebrated her 5th birthday this past Monday, August 11th. She has to be the cutest 5year old. Trust me!!!

I have plans to do a lovely birthday blog post for her but am searching for pictures. She was born before I went digital so babies pictures are in a nice, unorganized box of photos. The most recent I have on the computer is Lydia at 15mths. I'll settle for that if I can't get to the baby pics by tomorrow.

*******
I need to look back over my old posts. I can't seem to remember what I have posted about and what I haven't. How can I not know, lol? Oh well. No worries.

I am in the process of updating chores for everyone and putting together a new schedule. I might share those this week as well. Don't hold your breath, though. I will probably forget.

Remind me, k?

Wordless Wednesday (although I've already talked a lot..)

2008-08-06T23:18:00.002-04:00

In need of a navigator....

2008-08-06T22:55:00.002-04:00

Tonight, Caleb jumped aboard his boat and set off on a journey..(ok, it was really a couch pillow with a plastic spoon, but use your imagination like he did..)

I asked him where he was sailing to.

He told me he was heading to New York to take care of some business and then to Texas to be a cowboy.

I agreed it was a wonderful plan. After he had been rowing through a treacherous (did I spell that right?) storm, I asked him where he was.

"I can see Florida", he said.

"Oh, you have left New York.", I said.

"No, I'm on my way to New York.", he said.

"Um, where are you coming from?", I asked.

"South Dakota.", he replies.

"South Dakota?!?!?!?!?!", I exclaim.

Eddie says, "Who is teaching you geography son? Oh, the same lady who said..."

>He is interrupted by "the look".<

Caleb: "Oh, no, no, no, I mean South Carolina."

(Hmm, so he is passing Florida on his way from South Carolina to New York. I think I'll go research some geography curriculums and definitely time to get the maps back on the wall.)

Sewing Marathon Day 2

2008-08-06T22:45:00.003-04:00

Mary requested a tiered skirt instead of a Biker Dress. No problems. I had made a tiered skirt for Bekah several weeks ago. Mary was a bit disappointed as her didn't have the "twirl factor" she wanted. My problem: Mary is skinny and straight. She can't keep a skirt up! I was worried about the amount of fabric used because I didn't want the weight to pull it down. She is seriously pulling it up all the time!

(I promise this photo is straight up but it keeps posting on its side; sorry.)

I think it turned out cute and the longer she wore it the better she liked it. I am going to make her a better "twirl factor" skirt; maybe with suspenders. I'm not kidding.

Lydia's dress is finished but she also requested matching bloomers. I hope to have pics tomorrow!

Her name is Grace...

2008-08-04T22:14:00.003-04:00

Rebekah Grace. Maybe we should stress the Grace a bit more...

At least she laughed it off.

The Red Rocket....

2008-08-04T21:53:00.003-04:00

And introducing.......Caleb and the Red Rocket!!!

A sweet, red rocket detailed with black. It just screams "tough", "dirt", "boy". Hear any manly grunts?

He loves it and has been on it all day. Every moment he was outside he was on that bike. He has had a couple of bad falls but jumped right back on!

I thought I had a few more good shots, but various objects (such other siblings on bikes) were blocking my shots. Oops.

And He's Off...

2008-08-03T22:37:00.003-04:00

Today marked a wonderful milestone for Caleb. Today, the training wheels came off and he rode like the wind!!! It is a really great story and a pricey one, hee hee.

The girls, 9 & 8, have been riding without training wheels for some time. Caleb hadn't shown a real interest in bike riding until recently. Being the only boy, he was riding Mary's old bike. You know, pink with flowers and too small for him. But he was content to bump along on the old bike.

One day at the store, Caleb saw a shiny, red bicycle that screamed, "Caleb, Caleb, I am yours.". My pocket book said, "Not today." He told his daddy all about that bike and later he showed it to his daddy.

So Eddie told Caleb that when he learned to ride without training wheels, he would buy Caleb the bike.

Today, Eddie and I were discussing it and I told him he just needed to take the training wheels off because Caleb would never ask. Eddie agreed and said he was going to do it right then. He called Caleb over and told him that the training wheels were coming off. I, being the mommy advocate that I am, encouraged Caleb that I had no doubt he could ride that bike with no problem. That I would run along behind him and help him as much as he needed.

After I said those words, Eddie issued a challenge. First was this, "If you learn to ride this bike without training wheels, I will buy you a new bike tomorrow." I'm not sure what happened in the span of a few minutes but then I hear this, "If you ride this bike without training wheels right now, we will go get a new bike today."

Really? Interesting. Caleb said, "Ok." Now, I honestly thought it would take him a while to learn to ride the bike. I was, hmm, how should I say it.....wrong?

This photo is a dramatization of the "I will buy you a bike" conversation. I was just sitting on the bench while Eddie took the wheels off. He looked at me and said, "You have to have a photo of every little thing and you aren't taking pics of this???" So I ran inside and got my camera. They happily over exaggerated their conversation for the benefit of my photo memories. Thanks, guys.

Daddy holding him steady......Caleb tells him to "let me go."

And the boy took off!!!!!!!!!! Like the wind!!!! Gone!!! Needed no help, lol. It was crazy!!!!!! Eddie was a little excited.

Cruising!

See how tiny that bike is??? Poor kid!

So, he rode the bike with no training wheels...he flew on the bike with no training wheels. After about 30 minutes of riding, Eddie called him over. Told him to get ready to go get a new bike. No kidding. Eddie is a man of his word. The new bike will be coming soon......

Bekah and her new Biker Dress...

2008-08-03T21:40:00.002-04:00

Rebekah loves to ride her bike. Rebekah loves really long dresses/skirts. Do you see where I am going with this? Not a good combination! Peanut butter and chocolate = good combo. Ice cream and Magic Shell = good combo. Long dresses and bike = not good combo.

Rebekah is also growing faster than I ever thought possible and well, can be a bit clumsy at times. Add that in with a bike and well, accidents happen. The child was down to 3 dresses!!!! So yesterday, I had to ignore the dirty clothes, the beautiful sunshine, the dirty floor and get my sewing machine purring!

So I grab fabric, thread, scissors and get my pattern. Hmmm, something is missing....um, half the pattern pieces!!! No problem I can handle it. Improvise, Sharon. Think outside the lines. Deep breath....I can do it! I even made my own bias tape!!!! I am sooo proud and she loves it!!!

No zippers, no buttons, no interfacing...EASY!

I made capris to go under it, trimmed with the fabric of the dress....nice and comfy!!

She was so excited she couldn't control herself, lol.

Test Run is a sucess!!! No dress caught in the chain!!!! Now I have orders for more. Back to the sewing table.....

Dress Up 101

2008-08-02T23:29:00.002-04:00

Under the guidance of her sisters, Sarah enteres the world of dress-up......

Scrumptious Blessings!

2008-07-31T21:14:00.002-04:00

I am so amazingly blessed by some wonderful ladies that I honored to call friends. A few days ago, I was surprised to see Fed Ex on my doorstep leaving me a package.

This was inside:

Chocolate! Oh, how I needed it that day! Reese's Pieces! I haven't had those in years! I usually get Reese's PB cups. But, now I am addicted to these little wonderful pieces of chocolate! Let's not discuss how many and how quickly I ate!! They took me back to my childhood, lol.

And this..is it not gorgeous!?!???!?! My girls were drooling over it. They honestly thought they could have it. Bwahahahahaha! Handspun, folks. Handspun yarn! For me!!!!

Would you like some? I know where you can get some wonderfully handspun yarn from none other than my knitting guru!!!! She does amazing work! Check her out! KirkyLady

Interruptions..

2008-07-31T11:24:00.002-04:00

I am trying to read Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen...but I keep getting interrupted....by children who want to tell me about the books they are reading.

I have the movie of Pride and Prejudice (BBC version) that I can't watch until I read the book. I can't help it. Book first. Always.

I have a dischloth I am knitting for a swap..I keep getting interrupted...by children who want to know if they can have some yarn...I have to get this finished. I have to swap it, you know.

What will I finish first? The book? The dishcloth? Do I even know where the movie is?

I'll keep you updated.

Oh. I also need to sew dresses. But I keep getting interrupted by re-arranging my house.

I'll keep you posted.

Real Men..

2008-07-30T14:50:00.002-04:00

kill bugs with their bare hands.

Our resident bug killer, aka Caleb, stepped it up a notch today.

Mary was playing on the floor and spotted a spider entering her territory. She informed us all that she was under attack.

Before I could say a word, Caleb was on the job. He came over and evaluated the scene. Then "smash", that baby was gone.

Instead of hunting down a shoe, he used his bare hands. The spider was no more.

As he held the dead, smashed spider in his hand, he said, "Hey, mom, I killed it with my bare hands. I think I need to go wash them."

Yes. A spider killer with good hygeine. Now, if he would just wash his ears.

A post to keep the masses happy..

2008-07-29T21:11:00.002-04:00

OK, it is really to keep my sister happy. Hi, Chris! >>waving to you from the couch<< I would link you to her blog but she doesn't have one. Tsk, tsk. You really should get one, Chris!!

Hmm, I need to talk more. Now that isn't something I heard a lot growing up. I think she usually told me to hush and go away. Hee, hee.

I'll stop, Chris. Don't hurt me.

We got up this morning and my Rebekah was more than willing to cook the pancakes. They were so yummy! And best of all, there were leftovers to put in the freezer!!

Storytime was today. The last one until Septemeber. Lydia was a bit sad but after reassurance that we were still going to the library each week she was ok. All of my kiddos love the library. They loved it even more today when they all recieved a coupon for a free child size Coldstone ice cream. That doesn't excite me. Eddie will be thrilled,lol. I'll just swing by Chick Fil A and get a lemonade. Coldstone doesn't impress me. I'm odd. I know.

We hit Sam's this afternoon for a few items. Yep, I go to Sam's for odds and ends, lol. We are only 5min from them so it is just like another grocery store. They also have the very best prices on bananas and we go through lots of bananas. Potatoes. Apples. Cheese. Blah, blah, blah.

Samples are good as well. Today, we were there and they had pancake samples. Kiddos loved that, babycakes.

We had a yummy dinner: bbq chicken, potatoes, corn, salad and cornbread. I wanted to do a dessert but was running late. Oh well, there is always tomorrow, right?

School was thrown in the mix as well, lol. That's important. Some math, history, Bibe, reading etc, etc. Lydia has officially been added in and she is loving it!!!

Not much else is going on around here.

Oh, Chris, in case you are still reading...I need a basting brush..does Pampered Chef sell those? I can't find my catalog...can I have another?

Thanks!!!!

Random Thought...

2008-07-29T07:19:00.002-04:00

Here is my thought for today....life rarely turns out the way we plan it.

Isn't that a wonderful thing?

Just melts my heart!!

2008-07-17T21:49:00.002-04:00

On the way home from my mom's house this evening, Sarah shared with us her displeasure of traveling when tired. (aka - screaming head off). We recently played a round of musical car seats so that a certain dynamic duo were separated. This put Caleb next to Sarah. He was thrilled. Until, today.

He had an ear drum shattering seat next to the concert of screams.

However, I am proud of my boy. Did he join her in her vocal exercises? Nope. He handled it like a pro. A strategically placed pillow to block the setting sun. A light caress of fingers on the side of her face. A sweet, quiet singing of Amazing Grace. He put her to sleep.

That boy just melts my heart. Never mind the dirt under the finger nails, dirt down the front of his shirt, messed up hair and stinky feet, lol. That's my boy!

A Lazy Summer Afternoon

2008-07-12T09:43:00.001-04:00

Refreshing popsicles

Bare, dirty feet

Being lazy

Perfect.

The Little Moments...

2008-07-09T21:37:00.003-04:00

It is the little moments that make a great day. You know, those little, fleeting moments that you will miss if you aren't careful?

We were discussing what each child was good at...Bekah said she was good at reading (her choice, lol); Mary is an artist; Caleb is great at making people laugh; Lydia is a great smile sharer; the big kiddos decided that Hannah and Sarah were in a tie for being a gifted screamer. Hee hee.

I wasn't going to ask about myself. However, Bekah volunteered the following:
"Mom, you are a good reader. When you read a book, you make it feel so real". *Please pass me some tissue, I feel some tears a comin'.* That was a wonderful, sweet moment.

*********
Sometimes I feel like we read a lot of "girl" books. I mean, they are all great pieces of literature but I try to throw some boy action in there every now and then. I was a bit surprised how much he enjoyed one of our lastest books. We just finished up "A Year with Miss Agnes" (if you haven't read it, I recommend you do!). I was reading the final chapter, reached the end and closed the book. Caleb said, "Are you done?" I replied that I was. I seriously thought the boy's jaw was going to hit the floor. He was devastated. He wanted more of the story. Poor fella. I love it, though. I so wish I had captured it on camera. I have so often shared his feeling of "how can they end the story now!"

**********
We are now reading "Follow My Leader". We have read, hmm, maybe 2 or 3 chapters. They are hooked! I thought we might have an all out fight tonight in our home! There was a great debate on which book to read tonight before bed. Caleb was pushing hard for "Follow My Leader". He lost. Poor guy. But he is hooked again. I love it!

**********

Why the great debate at bedtime? Grammy. Yep, Grammy. She pulled rank. Ok, she didn't pull rank, I pulled it for her, lol. My in-laws moved in with us about a week ago. Not sure how long they are going to be with us, but I'll use what time I have to homeschool them as well. (giggle) We are also reading "Ned: Barnardo Boy" by Barbara Coyle (a must have!!!!). We were a few chapters into it. Last night I decided to read it before bedtime and well, if the grandparents didn't like it, well, they had their own books to read. Well I finished one chapter and Grammy was in the crowd that was asking for one more. So I read one more and then it was off to bed.

Tonight, I was asking the kiddos what they wanted to read; 1 wanted Ned, 3 wanted Follow My Leader. Grammy asked me which book won. I told her. She was disappointed. Said she wanted more of Ned. So I pulled rank. We read two more chapters tonight. Grammy is hooked on Ned.

Now that is one special little moment that can make a great day!!!!

*********
Oh! another great moment!! We went to our "old" (aka the wonderful library I had to leave behind when we moved but my wonderful sweet hubby lets me keep my card because they have so many books I need for homeschooling and I just love love love it!) library to return some books and pick up some new ones. I decided to surprise my little ones with hitting it at storytime.

My special moment? When I told the big girls (9 and 8) that they could go pick out some books and sit at a table and read told me "no, thanks" and they joined right in with storytime. Singing with the little ones, paying attention to the stories and laughing. Yep. Little moments making great days. A beautiful picture. I will treasure it!

Yep, I think that's it for today.

What little moments have made a great day for you?

A letter to the makers of my candy bar...

2008-07-08T21:45:00.002-04:00

Dear Makers of my Candy Bar,

I am sadden, upset, a tad devastated with what you have done to my candy bar. Sometimes at the end of a long day, I like to sit back in the quiet of the evening and enjoy a bite or two of chocolate. So many choices! But today, I choose you. I have you sitting in my cabinet..waiting...waiting for that quiet moment.

Drink in hand. Chocolate in hand. I take a bite. Hmm, let me cleanse my mouth. Something does not seem right. Palate is cleansed. Another small, tentative bite. Ick. That nasty taste again. What has happened to my candy bar??

I see the advertisement for a movie on the wrapper. I keep reading the wrapper for some clue on why the taste is changed. Then I see it. I grabbed a bar that, for a limited time, has a new exoctic, spicy flavor. And coconut has been added. Oh. My. Ick! I do not like coconut. At all. In any form. And to put it in my candy bar??? Did I want a Mounds or Almond Joy?? No! Why? Why? Why? I guess I should be thankful that the candy bar wasn't green, again.

So, dear makers of my candy bar, stop it. Some things do not need to be "improved", "spiced up", or "altered" for even a limited time. Please, leave my candy bar alone.

Sincerely,

Coconut Free Chocolate Lover

C25K...I'm in shape!

2008-06-26T21:43:00.002-04:00

So, I'm doing C25K. Part of my plan to get fit and healthy. It is sometimes a painful process. I had to re-start so I have completed up to week 2, day 2. Honestly, I am looking forward to week 3. Pushing myself is feeling great!

I am doing it on the treadmill as certain circumstances prevent me from running outdoors. I am so thankful at times like this for my treadmill!! I also found some podcasts that have programmed music so it tells me when to walk and run; very helpful! Let's me keep my focus on my pace and not the stopwatch.

Last night, the littles were in bed, the big girls were in their rooms reading. Eddie ran to the store to pick a few things and I decided to jump on the treadmill and get w2d2 done. (I am finding that exercising at night is good for me. I sleep much better!) I have the headphones on, music pumping, and head into a running cycle.

Mary comes in to say goodnight and almost gives me a heart attack. Not good while running on a treadmill with headphones on that are plugged into the computer. I survived.

She is in the midst of reading a book (hmm, I'll get back to you on the title) and wanted to tell me what she had read so far. I told her I couldn't really focus on her conversation since I was running and couldn't stop.

She asked why. I told her that I needed to get in shape so I could race her in the backyard. She looks at me from head to toe. "You are in shape." Ah, the innocence. "No, dear, I'm not. I need to get in shape." "You are in shape, momma, the shape of a person." *insert goofy smile* "Go to bed, goofball." Yes, I called her goof ball. She is a big goof; just like her daddy. He would make the same comment. She walked out of the room giggling.

So, I would say that c25k is already a success. My goal was to get in shape and according to Mary, I have accomplished my goal. Just to be on the safe side, I think I'll keep going.

Weekend Wisdom

2008-06-23T14:24:00.003-04:00

Over this past weekend, much wisdom was shared amongst the Tribe..

While Hannah and I were reviewing a DVD, States and Capitals, Mary walked in the room. She was in the midst of who knows what in her bedroom and could not stop to watch. She asked if we would watch it later. I said that I wasn't sure. Her reply, "Well, we'll never learn it, if you don't let us." I laughed. She cracks me up!!!

***********

Grandparents were here this weekend. (They are moving here, soon) The big kiddos were over at their house "helping to paint". Bekah and Granddad were chatting. Granddad comments on how proud of her he is. She said, "You should be proud of momma. She's the one teaching us." I love that girl.

Weather Hole...

2008-06-21T00:01:00.004-04:00

We have a weather hole. Do you? I should have taken a picture but I didn't so close your eyes and use that vivid imagination you have. Gwenhyfar, that should be easy for you. :-)

Our living room is a step down from the dining room/kitchen. On the front of the step, there is a vent. If the kiddos are hot, they want to sit at the step and play so the vent will blow on them. Equally enjoyable in the winter when the heat is on.

Anyhoo, this vent is also known as the Weather Hole. Yes. The Weather Hole.

Whenever the topic of the weather comes up, which is almost daily, the Weather Hole is invaluable. See we have a Weather Snout in our house as well. It belongs to Bekah. Mmmhmmm. I'll casually ask "do you think it is going to rain?" or "is rain in the forecast?". No need to go check the weather. Nope. Weather Snout to the rescue.

Bekah will jump up and say, "Let me check the Weather Hole!" She runs to the vent, um weather hole, takes a big sniff with the Weather Snout (aka her nose) and will inform us if rain is on the way. She can smell the rain, you know. It is scary how often she is correct.

And in the event that the Weather Snout is unable to detect the possible rain, the Weather Snout's father, Weather Head, can usually clear it up for us. Big storm = major sinus headache. What amazing abilities my husband is passing on to his children. What joy I find in seeing my 9yr old daughter run to the Weather Hole.

I'll try to get a picture soon. I love to share the joy.

How to make your 2yr happy...

2008-06-20T18:19:00.002-04:00

Today Lydia (4) was folding diapers. (We use cloth.) I was in my bedroom changing Sarah's diaper. Hannah (2) came in and asked if she could help fold diapers. Um, sure Hannah. She squealed and then giggled and danced all the way down the hallway. Excited to fold diapers.

Hmm, Hannah let me show you a little place called the laundry room...all your dreams come true.

Can I please do them all???

2008-06-17T21:24:00.002-04:00

Grammar. Mary. She doesn't like to write. We do as much as we can orally. However, sometimes you just have to write for the grammar lesson.

Today, we were chatting about quotations, quotations marks and proper capitalization when using quotations.

7 sentences. I used #1 as an example. Instructed her to complete 2-6. Don't worry about 7. I'm cutting you a break. Mary's smiles.

I ask her if she is done. Mary request that I please allow her to do 7. Um, ok, sure. Go ahead.

I get ready to check it. Mary begs me to let her read it aloud. I explain that unless she is going to "read" to me the punctuation marks and capital letters that her reading it aloud doesn't really help me check it.

She was greatly disappointed. She informed me that the sentences, when read in order, make a story. Silly goose. She was correct. The 7 sentences told a story.

**********
In other news.......

We went to storytime today. Public school is out. The storytime room was packed out. A crowd was gathered *outside* the door. Glad we were early!

But!!! Hannah, miss I am not going to sing, dance, or show any interest in moving away from the side of my mommy to participate, put her whole self in. Then she quickly removed her whole self and sat back down. She had no interest in turning herself about. Progress folks.

I should take a video. She loves the Hokey Pokey. Enter storytime; she no Hokey Pokey. Silly goose. Yes. I have lots of silly geese.

Do I have the good life?

2008-06-13T15:09:00.001-04:00

Yes. Yes, I do.

Right now...I have a two year old playing with toy cars which just happens to be entertaining the 6mth old.

My 9, 8, 6 and 4 yrs old are having potatoe sack races with pillowcases up and down the hallway.

And me? I'm baking chocolate chip cookies. They don't know that; yet. It is a spur of the moment surprise.

Ok. Not really. I wanted a cookie. Now. Not later. So I'm making a batch (ok, double batch) and I'm going to share. Really. I am. I promise.

Does it get any better than this????

Lydia and the Ice Cream Sandwich...

2008-06-13T11:37:00.002-04:00

After a hot day "working" outside, I made her an offer she couldn't refuse.

An ice cream sandwich...intent on the task....she eats one side of the chocolate, then the ice cream and finally, the other side of chocolate. Interesting approach.

Satisfied. Job well done!

Too Hot for me Tuesday

2008-06-10T21:07:00.002-04:00

It's hot. This is not the point of this post. Just thought you would like to know.

Today was storytime. Lydia loves Tuesdays. She is thoroughly enjoying storytime. Hannah; not so much. She'll get there.

My big girls use storytime as their hunt down as many books as possible because it will be a whole week before we come back again and what if we do not have anything to read time. They do really well. Seriously. I can see chiropractic care in their futures due to back issues from all the books they drag out of the library each week.

Today, I really wish I had my camera with me. It took all my self-control not to bust out laughing during storytime and it wasn't due to Mouse Paint. The librarian ( I keep meaning to ask her name) was doing The Three Little Pigs on the felt board. She is quite dramatic. I am in the corner across from the door. I happen to look over at the door and on one of the windows I see Rebekah's face. She had stopped by to see how storytime was going and was enjoying the librarian's dramatic flair. She found it quite entertaining even at the old age of 9. It would have been a great picture. Because as she was listening through the door she was making faces at Hannah who, well, finds little enjoyment in storytime. She does enjoy Bekah, though. So she was laughing. Loudly. Maybe Hannah needs Bekah to join her at storytime. Hmmm....

******
In other news, I do not know if Bekah and I will survive our journey through long division. I think tomorrow we will practice dividing up chocolate. I am not kidding. It might not help but I know it won't hurt.

She understands the concept. And she can tell me exactly what to do. But when I leave her on her own to do it, well, it just goes downhill. We got through it. I think she gets overwhelmed at thinking the division is harder than it is. Chocolate. It will help. Right?

******

I think that might be it for tonight. I have plans to share what we are all currently reading. And studying at Vineyard Christian Academy. Maybe tomorrow...after long division and chocolate!

It just isn't there...

2008-06-06T22:09:00.002-04:00

I had plans all day to blog tonight when I had a quiet moment. Thoughts of a thought provoking, inspiring blog was playing around in my mind. Sadly, it just isn't there. *sigh*

For those who are in the mood to be un-inspired...

Yesterday, we journeyed to our favorite library. You know the one we pay to use since we are not county residence and the one that is way out of our way..yet it has so many of the books we need for school and well, tons more for my book lovers! Seriously, my homeschool budget could not keep up with the likes of this:
Four books at once, folks!!! It was hard enough when they were ready one at a time, but now four at once!!!!! We may need a second card.

Just an interesting fact (or not), reading is much more stimulating if you read with your feet elevated.

And a precious moment captured.....

I love my life.

Audrey Hepburn

2008-06-05T23:55:00.001-04:00

I glanced in my rearview mirror and caught a glimpse of this in the corner of my eye. At the next stop sign, I turned around and looked. I just had to have a picture! Gorgeous. It made me think of Audrey Hepburn.

Sometimes...

2008-06-05T23:53:00.003-04:00

you just have to tell them to go climb a tree....thankfully, the library had one...

We made a library run today and I guess Caleb had some energy to burn. He stopped out of the van and went straight for the tree. Ok. Works for me!

For J and birders....

2008-06-05T18:35:00.002-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2008-06-04T21:01:00.001-04:00

Family Haircuts - Take 2

2008-06-03T23:09:00.003-04:00

I have to say that I was very pleased with the hair salon we chose to use on Saturday. A lady that Eddie knows owns it; but does not work there. It was a franchise type of establishment and there were about 6 stylist working. As a stylist became available, someone in our family was called to a chair.

When it was Rebekah's turn, she got the only male stylist working there. He was really nice and took his time with her. Later, as she was re-living the wonderful event, she kept referring to his as "the man". The way she would say it was hilarious.

She was very excited about this haircut. It was only her THIRD time getting her long hair whacked off. No kidding. The girl must secretly put Miracle Grow on her hair! It is thick, thick, thick glorious dark hair. She is 9 and this was, I repeat, her THIRD huge cut off of hair! Second Locks of Love donation!!!

(A disclaimer: I have no clue what was going on in the first pic, lol. It was the best of the before shots. She also has wonderful, square, broad a-bag-will-never-slip-off-shoulders and she slouches; ugh! Straighten up, girl!!!)

Kerplink, kerplank, kerplunk....

2008-06-03T22:01:00.003-04:00

those three little sounds will gather all the kiddos together...little and big!

Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey is simply a joy to read! A delight! I can not even count the times that we had read this book!!!

After much thought and debating with myself, I decided to do a bit of Before Five in a Row with Lydia before she "outgrew" these books. Most of them we have read; more than once. However, I wanted to take time with her to really get to know these books. I am also tossing around the idea of doing a lapbook.

Of course, I was saving this book for tomorrow but someone discovered it in "Mommy's Book Bag" and after a sweet "please, read this" I couldn't say no. So up Blueberry Hill we went. While I was reading, Mary was taking a shower. She walked into the living room and said, "hey, you read it without me." Oops, sorry dear. What was I thinking?

So Blueberries for Sal get a Tribal Thumbs Up! Next trip to the library, grab a copy and enjoy picking blueberries with Sal!

Family Haircuts - Take 1!

2008-06-03T21:03:00.004-04:00

For some time, we have been discussing finding a hair stylist and getting haircuts. Eddie usually takes care of Caleb and himself. I will, when forced, trim the girls' hair but nothing but a tiny, tiny trim.

Saturday was the day. We were discussing how much to trim from the girls' hair. An inch or two became mid-back. Mid-back became donation to Lock of Love.

Deep breath, mommy. Mary has never had her hair cut more than a trim. Well, unless you count the numerous times as a toddler she did her own hair styling. This was harder on me than I thought it would be, babycakes. I, seriously, tried to talk her out of it. I failed.

She is thrilled. She can finally brush her own hair, style her own hair and wash her own hair. It was down to her patootie which made this all hard on an 8yr old. Now I can't keep the brush out of her hands. So, take a seat please......introducing......the new Mary!!! (clicking on pic will make it larger)

And just because I can......

I will survive...

2008-06-02T10:59:00.002-04:00

I did survive. Barely.

What did I survive? Running, babycakes. Running. Ok, actually jogging. Whatever. It hurt.

Some wonderful ladies I know torture themselves with the C25K training program/exercise plan/torture. I thought to myself.."Self, you are out of shape. You need to get active again. You need to be able to chase down all those kiddos that are super fast. Self, get to it!"

Today, I did it. I overslept. I had kiddos ready for breakfast. I did not give excuses. I got my patootie up on that treadmill. I walked. I jogged. I gasped for air. I reminded children, who were greatly entertained, not to touch the treadmill. I finished!!!!

Not only did I finish but I did it without oxygen support. I didn't collapse. My muscles didn't revolt. Yahootie! I felt great!

So great that I grabbed my hubby and encouraged him to do it as well! Ok, I gave him workout clothes and followed him around until he decided that the treadmill was easier to deal with. Bwahahahahaha. He survived as well.

Now.....you...yes, you....go!!!

It's the thought that counts...

2008-05-27T23:02:00.002-04:00

right?

We went on another family walk tonight. I remembered as I was heading out the door to grab the camera. I really want to have pictures to remember these wonderful, relaxing walks with the kiddos. We all enjoy them so much.

I snap one or two pics as we head out. Just because. Not fabulous photos or anything. We walk. I see a bird perched on a fence. I think this is a wonderful picture as we are studying birds in science, I have bird lovers in my family and a close friend (Hi, J) is a birder.

I focus.

I take the picture.

I get a "replace the battery pack" message.

MY BATTERY WAS DEAD.

Lovely.

What does my wonderful, sweet hubby do all the way home?

"Oh, Sweetie, get a picture of this.."
"Look, this is a great shot..."
"Sweetie, come take a picture over hear.."
"Sweetie, don't miss this shot..."

On and on and on.....

*sigh* Maybe next time....

A moment in nature...

2008-05-25T21:36:00.002-04:00

and I forgot my camera, again.

This evening we embarked on another nature journey (aka family walk). It was a pretty uneventful walk. No Lucky. No Beulah. No fellow walkers.

But wait. What was that??? A squirrel. Not interesting you say? Ah, but what was he doing?

We caught a little squirrel scurrying around gathering leaves for his nest. He ran around until he had a mouthful of leaves. Then he climbed the tree, jumped on a branch, and waited.....then climbed to the next branch and waited...I think we were making him a bit nervous, lol.

We decided to move on and give him some quiet to continue his work. As we were watching him, I kept thinking what a great photo I could have taken. I really have to remember to bring the camera!

Ready......Set......Knit.....

2008-05-25T21:28:00.003-04:00

It has been MONTHS since I knitted! I am not a fast knitter and I am definitely not a great knitter. However, I think I manage pretty well. I have also managed to teach my two older girls to knit. (KG brace yourself...it is not Mary's favorite thing to do.)

I picked my knitting needles back up this week and decided to do a dishcloth. Something simple and easy for during the day when I have many interruptions. They happen in a house of 6 kiddos, you know. Bekah told me that she wanted to knit a dishcloth as well. Great.

Bekah has a slight issue. She loves to start and never finish a knitting project. I decided we needed to work on actually finishing a project and following a pattern. Here comes the challenge. We are going to knit a dishcloth in a seed stitch pattern. It is a race to see who finished first. Then we will move on to another design.

She learned a very valuable lesson today. She informed me that her dishcloth did not look like it was seed stitch. I checked it. Hmm, it wasn't. Well it was a combination of things. She gave me a sweet look and asked so nicely if she could continue. I being the loving mother that I am said, "NO!". She had to do some froggin'.

Why not let her continue? She is only 9? What's the big deal?

Because this isn't just about knitting. It carries over into everything. In all things we want to do our best. In all things we need to be willing to start over if necessary. In all things we should do it for the glory of God. We need to learn how to finish the race before us. Even when things are difficult, we push on.

Yep, just a dishcloth. But valuable skills that she can build on, babycakes.

Nature Study

2008-05-23T21:45:00.002-04:00

In the cool of the evening, we are enjoying a family walk. We are so blessed to live in a neighborhood that affords us this opportunity. It is an older neighborhood; meaning it was before they clear cut to build houses. There are some very beautiful yards! But I digress.... I was going to point out that all day long, we have folks walking, running, biking and strolling around the neighborhood. I love it!

I have not thought of counting these walk as part of our "official schooling"but maybe I should...

Yesterday on our journey down various roads, we encountered a snake who did not make it across the road. (Maybe a distant relative of the ones found in my backyard. Hmm, I don't think I blogged about that eventful night.) Of course, we saw and heard various birds.

However, the highlight of the evening was meeting a dog named Lucky. We do not believe in luck around here but Lucky was definitely blessed with an owner who loved him greatly!

We were walking and approaching a curve in the road when a lady pushing a stroller came from the other direction. It was an intersting stroller. Enclosed and low to the ground. As she got closer, we could see that she was pushing a dog in a doggie stroller. Lucky. She stopped to say hello and we had a lovely exchange.

She wanted to say what a joy it was to see our family. She was the baby of 10 and loved seeing large families. With many inquiring eyes looking at Lucky in the stroller, she introduced the kiddos to him. Lucky was a chihauhau that was almost 17yrs old. One eye was removed and the socket sewn shut. Lucky had glaucoma that was not successfully treated with medication, he has lost his hearing and is unable to take a walk anymore due to old age; hence, the stroller.

Even Hannah, who is not a dog's biggest fan, went up to the stroller and chatted with Lucky.

The kiddos were looking forward to seeing Lucky on our walk this evening, but we must have missed them.

However, this evening's walk was great fun with an unexpected encounter as well. We took a different path around the neighborhood tonight. People pass by and we exchange a friendly hello, nice evening or wave.

As we pass by one house, a man is outside in his yard. He calls out a "nice evening for a walk" and Eddie replies. We get about two houses down and he yells at us, "do your children want to see my turtle?". Hmm, ooook. Sure. Why not.

So we turn around and head back. There we are introduced to Beulah the Box Turtle. She was fast; for a turtle. Our neighbor, whom I'll call Mr. H, is a science teacher at a middle school. He found Beulah in the road and claimed her as his own. She was enjoyed by his science class that spoiled her with earthworms, minnows and strawberries. We learned how to tell a boy box turtle from a girl box turtle; learned that Beulah gets down right speedy when tempted with an earthworm and that city life isn't all that bad.

It is possible that one certain boy in our family is going to be asking for a pet turtle. Caleb loved Beulah. Lovely.

I am so glad we met Mr. H today. He blessed my children so much!! I hope we see him on another walk!

Oh, we also saw a bird that met the same demise as the snake. Ewww.

During a moment of shoelace tying silence, we heard a woodpeck. The area was too wooded to tell where the woodpecker was at, babycakes. We were also serenaded by toads.

I think we may have to get a book or two on turtles. Snakes, not so much.

Hey, Mom

2008-05-21T19:22:00.002-04:00

"You don't have to tie my shoes anymore."

These wonderful words were just delivered to me by Caleb.

Yep. Caleb can tie his own shoes. He was a bit later than the girls in this skill. I kept forgetting to teach him. Oops.

What's your temp?

2008-05-18T21:54:00.002-04:00

I delight in watching my children enjoy the world around them. I love to see when understanding dawns in their minds. At the age 2, well, it happens almost daily!

Hannah, 2, and I were sitting and chatting. You know, deep thoughts. She looks at me and asks, "You hot, mommy?"

"No, I'm not hot."

"You cold?"

"No, I'm not cold."

"Oh, you warm, mommy."

Yes, *giggle*, I guess I'm warm. I mean, if I'm not hot or cold all that is left is warm, right?

Communication at its finest...

2008-05-18T20:50:00.002-04:00

Some time back, Eddie and I purchased notebooks. He has two - one for Mary and one for Bekah. I have two as well; same deal. We use the notebooks to jot notes between ourselves and the girls. They think it is just wonderful and love writing little notes and hiding them in our room to be found. With our recent move and the birth of Sarah, the notebooks were forgotten for a time. The notebooks had been sitting on the desk in the office. Sitting. Lonely. Forgotten.

The girls rediscovered the notebooks a couple of weeks ago and were thrilled to begin the note writing again. Eddie and I have enjoyed it as well. It really is precious to share little thoughts with each other.

At dinner one night, Caleb asked Eddie if he could have a notebook as well. Now Caleb is all boy and writing has not been on his Top Ten Things to Accomplish List. I haven't pushed him as I knew it would come in time. Eddie told Caleb that when he was able to write a note then he could have a notebook. A call came in for Eddie so he stepped away from the table and then was jotting some notes down about his call. I had settled on the couch to nurse Sarah while the kiddos were finishing up dinner. The girls were all done and putting their things away. Caleb was still at the table.

A few moments passed and then Caleb walked over to Eddie with a piece of paper in his hand. Caleb held it up for Eddie to see and it said, "Can I git down?" Eddie asked him if he had finished his food. Caleb took his pencil and wrote, "Yes, I finished it all."

Hmm, guess I need to go grab him a notebook.

CVSing

2008-05-13T22:49:00.002-04:00

I am trying to be a good steward of our money and am using CVS as a way to get that done. Today I went to CVS and with coupons and ECBs I spent a little over a dollar for over $40 worth of stuff. I made an error or it wouldn't have cost me that dollar, lol. Not too bad! All stuff we needed as well. I also have 22 ECBS for next time.

I'm also working on our menus. We are meat eaters and meat is expensive!!! I must find some frugal meals that all will enjoy!!! Have I even mentioned how terrible I am at menu planning?

Any suggestions would be great!!!!

Update on Caleb

2008-05-13T22:42:00.002-04:00

*His cute little boy snore sounds just like his daddy's snore now. Um, not that his daddy snores, you know. This is a side effect of the surgery that may or may not go away.

*He is dreaming good dreams. I was informed by a sibling that during the night, Caleb was talking in his sleep saying "give me the chocolate chips". Good dreams!

*He went to work with Daddy today and took care of business and a slushie during Happy Hour at Sonic. I really need to go to work with Daddy. At least during Happy Hour.

*His energy can not be contained. He went outside under orders to "take it easy". He ran and played tag with his sisters until he was out of breath. Hmmm, we need to work on his understanding of "take it easy".

*He reminded me that I had not given him his pain medicine today. Ok, buddy. Does it hurt? No, ma'am. Then, we're good.

*He is heating up his own rice pack each evening before bed. Daddy is very upset to have lost out of the rice pack. Yes, I have a sewing machine. Yes, I need to make more. *sigh*

*He is marking the calendar counting down to his check up. May 22nd can not get here soon enough for him.

*He has a buddy for his "applesauce consistency" diet. Daddy is eating what Caleb eats. Both are missing chewing their food.

Hmm, I think that is it for now. Children recover so quickly!

Creative Food Placement

2008-05-13T22:34:00.002-04:00

Today, I made sure Caleb had a good supply of pudding. He is on a limited "applesauce consistency" diet so I'm trying to make it as palatable as possible. I also made sure there was enough pudding to share.

For dinner we had spaghetti, corn, and salad. Caleb had finished his dinner and was getting a pudding cup. The girls asked if they could have one and we told them if they had eaten what was on their plates that they could have some.

Rebekah and Lydia were done and grabbed some pudding. Mary had a few stray carrot from her salad to finish off and then the pudding was hers. After just a few bites, Hannah had broken into her rendition of "I'm done...I'm full......". She was instructed to just sit there and be cute. She does it so well!

Once she saw everyone else getting pudding, she decided that she wanted some, too. I asked Bekah to push her corn and her spaghetti into nice little piles so she could finish the few bites and be finished. (I had given her salad but guessed she wouldn't eat it. She did pick a carrot or two out and eat those. I'm working on getting her to eat salad so it wasn't a requirment for it to be all gone.) Eddie then informed her that she did not have to eat her salad but to finish her other food. She said, "yes, sir".

A second for two later, she said she was done.

We looked over at her plate.

She had pushed her spaghetti and corn into her salad. You know, the salad we told her she didn't have to eat. We call this "Creative Food Placement". What happened next is a rarity, but daddy's mushy heart got the best of him and he caved. Hannah got pudding for her problem solving skills.

That creative thinking must have worked her hard...she fell asleep during family worship and missed her turn to pray. She loves to pray for NaNa.

We Are Home!

2008-05-09T21:11:00.002-04:00

Caleb had his Pharyngeal Flap (soft palate extension) surgery on Wednesday, May 7th. The surgery went really well and Caleb did wonderful! His plastic surgeon, Dr. van Aalst is fabulous!

Eddie and I took turns sitting with him while he waiting for his surgery. (Eddie spent more time back there than I did; Sarah decided she needed to nurse, lol) Eddie also got the opportunity to get clothed in full scrubs again (he also wore them for my emergency c-section) and go into the OR with Caleb. They allow a parent to go into the OR while the put the children under anesthesia to help keep them calm and relaxed. They also give "happy juice" to help the kiddos relaxed. Eddie says Caleb has a high tolerance because the "happy juice" did not help.

I love how Caleb loves his daddy. And Caleb chose wisely. I always feel safe and protected in Eddie's arms as well. It is so precious to see them together!

Surgery was only a couple of hours. They take tissue from the throat and attach it to the already existing palate. Ouch! We also took turns going back to see him in recovery. As a precaution, they pulled his tongue forward and stitched it to the side of his mouth. This was to prevent him to choke or gag, in case of swelling, trouble breathing etc. Even while under heavy pain meds in recovery, you could tell it bothered him. I imagine waking up and not being able to move your tongue is scary. Add in the pain, etc. He looks so precious, lying there. I cried. He is such a special boy. My heart just ached for him. He got a bit agitated and was moving his head and then rubbed at the side of his face. I told him not to fight the stitch in his tongue and to try to rest. He said, "yes, ma'am" as he cried a bit and settled back down. Oh. My. Bless his heart! To say "yes ma'am" in that condition???? I cried. Again!

Sadly, the girls didn't get to see him that night. The children's hospital was full. There was no room open, so we had to wait for someone to be discharged. My little ones were crashing after a LONG day so we decided I should head on back to the hotel. It was around 5:30 or so? A room was available finally around 7!

Thankfully, the stitch was removed first thing Thursday morning and Caleb was thrilled. The key to coming home was to drink and not throw up! So I called Eddie from the hotel to find that Caleb was not interested in drinking. I took requests, lol. Caleb wanted a smoothie. No problem. We made a pit stop at a Harris Teeter and grabbed some smoothies.

We arrived to the hospital and I almost cried when I saw him. He was freshly showered and sitting in a chair coloring. It broke my heart to leave him Wednesday at the hospital. I know Eddie took care of him. I know he was in good hands. But, oh, how I ached to be there with him!

And the poor guy had a washcloth to his mouth. I was concerned he was bleeding but Eddie informed me that Caleb didn't want to swallow his saliva. It hurt too bad. I imagine so!!! But if he didn't drink, it would get dry and hurt much worse. I was a bit worried that he would not be coming home.

However, his wonderful nurse, said it wasn't volume but frequency. As long as he would sip regularly he would be fine and could go home. Yippie!!!!!! So we got him to sip every now and then and we were discharged around lunch. Home by 3!

He is getting better. Today he actually ate. Smoothies are his favorite. Oh, he has to be on an "applesauce consistency" diet until his check up in 2weeks. Then, depending on how he is healing, we may add some things. This is going to be interesting. Right now, his appetite is not normal but in a few days...hmmm...fun, fun.

He is also having a lot of neck pain. During the surgery, they are working really close to the spine and of course there was pressure on that. So it is very sore and painful right now as well. He is improving by the hour though. We are staying on top of the pain and in a few days, the pain should be pretty much gone.

I know I am rambling. Sorry. I guess I could have just said that it all went well. The end. But well, I didn't; giggle.

Thanks to you all for your prayers!!! It was such a comfort to know so many were praying for Caleb. My boy. Please continue to pray!! Recovery is going to be close to a month and for the first couple of weeks he can't be "rough housing" or "real active". Um, he is a 6yr old boy. The surgery was vascular so bleeding is still a risk. Much prayer needed there, lol.

Also, he will likely have another surgery this year. Scheduling is being worked on now.

Ok. I think I'm done now.

The Mind of a 2yr Old

2008-05-05T23:12:00.002-04:00

I am delighted by this series of photos. Every time I look at them, I smile or laugh. Usually both. We were outside enjoying sidewalk chalk, property lines and plantations. It was a beautiful day and I was taking advantage of a working camera. I did not even realize "the story" in the photos I took of Hannah. Priceless.

Here she was sitting so sweetly. Contemplating her next chalk masterpiece. She had horded all the extra pieces of chalk. Maybe she was taking inventory. Decided which color to use next. Sweet picture is all I know for sure.

Suddenly, inspiration strikes!

A moment of deep reflection.......I wonder.......

Yes! Sidewalk chalk will color my body a rainbow of colors!!! Who needs markers???

What? Who, me? I didn't do anything. Just sitting here, looking cute.

Simply Beautiful

2008-05-03T22:43:00.002-04:00

There are many days where my focus is a bit off. A smidgen skewed. A tad blurred. I get caught up in what I *think* is important and push aside what is *really* important.

I am so thankful that I have been *in focus* more often than not lately. I am trying to not let the mountain of laundry, the returning dirty dishes and the pile of books get in my vision. I'm trying to keep a clear view of those precious ones around me.

After a walk around our neighborhood, we decided to enjoy our front yard. Most of our front yard is the paved drive. Not a problem! Earlier, we had made a dash to the store and grabbed a huge bucket of sidewalk chalk. All the kiddos from 9-2 enjoyed the chalk! I enjoyed hearing the giggles and conversations while holding a sleeping baby.

As they started to create their sidewalk masterpieces, I reminded the kiddos that we needed to keep an eye on Hannah. She is really good about not being tempted by the road, but well, you never know! The first thing Mary did with her chalk was to establish a "do not cross" line. She is my problem solver, lol. As you can see, Hannah delighted in going right to the line and would always look back to see who was watching her. I'm not sure how clear it is in the picture, but Mary also had drawn a "sidewalk" and Hannah always stayed on the sidewalk.

Rebekah was not the most cooperative photography subject. She was intent on finishing a masterpiece to welcome daddy home. This is where she stayed most of the time. Silly girl! She usually loves the camera.

After many reminders to Hannah to stop coloring on their creations, the bigger kiddos decided to draw "property lines". Caleb was very patient in his attempt to explain where his property line was and for Hannah not to cross it. He patiently explained it several times. I'm not sure if Hannah ever gained an appreciation for them. He tried.

Lydia was explaining her picture to me. I promise she was not eating chalk.

See. No chalk on her teeth.

Mary had the perfect surprise for her daddy. A yummy triple scoop ice cream cone! Yummmmy! She somehow managed to keep anyone from "helping" her! She later added whipped cream and a cherry on top. For some reason, I can not locate that picture. I know I took one!

*Caution - Construction in Progress*

Hannah enjoyed her little sidewalk so much, Mary made her some more to walk on. Caleb was quality inspection? I'm not sure, lol. They ended up turning their property lines into "plantations" and had many different "paths" to follow to travel around as you visited. Hey, where did Bekah go??

I have a few cute photos of how the 2yr old mind works. Photobucket, of course, is being a bit slow so I'll do another post on those!

Upcoming Surgery

2008-04-29T21:42:00.002-04:00

Caleb has an upcoming surgery on Wednesday May 7th. It will be to extend his soft palate. His last surgery was when he was 1yr old. At that age, he wasn't aware of what was happening. Next week will be a bit different. In his words, "I don't want to have surgery, but I know I have, too." Please pray for him and for us as we approach this time.

Miss Mary...

2008-04-23T07:53:00.003-04:00

After slow loading, she is finally here...

This was on her birthday...beautiful isn't she? And hilarious. Sadly, most of the birthday pics did not turn out due to a messed up camera. Lovely. Now we have a new to us camera so I'll make up for and take lots of pics!

I also need to scan in some baby photos of her! No prob now that hubby fixed my printer/scanner issues!!!!

Bring it on...

2008-04-22T22:58:00.000-04:00

He looks tough. However, he is one big teddy bear.

The face says it all...

2008-04-22T22:44:00.002-04:00

Pure sweetness!

She actually spent days learning how to cross her eyes.

Fear of the camera. This cracks me up.

Learning our Colors...

2008-04-22T21:55:00.002-04:00

She knows red!

Saturday we went and picked strawberries to the delight of all my kiddos. (no photos; sorry. I forgot the camera. But hey! I remembered all the kiddos!)

A lady at the strawberry farm was giving us directions on which part of the field was open for picking. She was a lovely lady. She told the kiddos to feel free to sample the berries to make sure they were delicious and asked that we only pick the red berries. Leave the green strawberries to grow a little longer.

No problem.

I need to point out, that at home when Hannah has been given strawberries, she would not eat them. As we were picking berries, Hannah would pick one and say, "Red?" Someone would say "yes" and then she would say "eat" and take a bite. She followed the lady's directions very well.

She did it several times. It was so cute! We did stop her, though. I mean she needed to actually put the strawberries in the bucket!

She still does not eat strawberries at home. Silly goose.

Music to my ears....

2008-04-17T17:09:00.001-04:00

Caleb made it through 100 Easy Lessons....and I began him in Pathway Readers. Yesterday he finished the "pre-primer". He was so excited. But I don't think he is as excited as I was! He just came and grabbed the next reader off the shelf. He asked if it was OK. Sure, my boy, sure. Grab a book and enjoy!!!!

Not for the faint of heart...

2008-04-15T21:05:00.003-04:00

Excess air in your body is not always a pleasant experience. In our home, we really try to express the importance of being polite in case the escape of air happens in the presence of others.

Hannah seems to release her air (pass gas, flatulence, etc) daily. She, very politely, announces that "her bootie burped". This is always followed with a smile and giggle. I think we need a refresher course in manners for her.

Happy Birthday, Miss Mary!!

2008-04-14T21:34:00.002-04:00

My darling Mary turned 8 today!!! We had a wonderful time celebrating her special day! I do have pictures but my camera is having issues. Hopefully, I can get them uploaded soon!

8! Wow! Where did all the time go so quickly?

My favorite moment of the day was this evening....she was sitting with her *best present she has ever gotten in her whole life* (American Girl Felicity paper dolls) and was telling me how she did not want to grow up to be a young lady. She wanted to stay a little girl so she could play in the dirt and with her dolls. Young ladies obviously can not do such things. Silly goose!

I am also very blessed that I can share in her new treasure. After commenting that I enjoyed paper dolls as a young girl, Mary informed me that I was welcome to play with her after I got the little ones to bed each night. I think I might have to take her up on that offer!!!

I can still see her smile and hear her giggling. It is so much fun to feed her imagination!

Love my birthday girl!

What did you say???

2008-04-11T22:32:00.003-04:00

Tonight, we were having family worship. During our discussion of the scripture we read, Eddie was trying to explain a certain point to the kiddos.

Eddie: Bekah, let's say I give you a raise in your allowance...
Bekah: But daddy, I don't like raisons, could I have a bowl of mac and cheese instead?
Eddie: Huh?
Bekah: I don't like raisons.
Eddie: >insert laugh< Not raisons, raise in.
*Everyone laughs, even the little ones who don't get the misunderstanding, lol*
Have to love the southern accent.

The Last Strawberry

2008-04-11T18:08:00.002-04:00

We were blessed this week to be given some first of the season, freshly picked strawberries by some wonderful friends! What a scrumptious treat! They are so yummy!!!

I was just in the kitchen cleaning and preparing the few strawberries that were left for an after dinner treat. Lydia had decided to come in from the backyard and wanted to watch as I was fixing the berries.

Now, of course we had to discuss important topics. The topic of today was "Is this the last one?" Each strawberry I picked up to clean and cut, she would ask "is this the last one"? I, of course, would reply, "no". She would giggle and we would continue.

We were working at the sink, naturally. Over at the island, Hannah was playing with Sarah. I turned to check on them and Hannah was standing on the bar stool. Lydia at the same time asked, "Is this the last one?" I replied, "No; Hannah sit down."

Lydia, giggling, said, "It's called No Hannah sit down."

I giggled and told her no, lol. Affectionately called her goofball and carried on.

We did finally get to the last one and she left me for a new library book. Silly girl.

Need a smile.....

2008-04-09T14:00:00.002-04:00

Well, Mr. Serious does not have one. But well, he looks so handsome, I had to share.

I have a terrible headache today. This has nothing to do with you needing a smile. But well, this is really what memories and scars of made of...nice one isn't it? Hmmm and it is several days old. The corner shows no signs of damage.

Ok, I think after some serious reflection on our various headaches, we could use that smile... Hey, you, way over there....come a bit closer..

That's better. Watch the drool, cutie. Some folks can't handle the drool....

You just said "awww" didn't you? Oh my. She is going to have her daddy so wrapped around her finger. Precious!

We had testing this morning. Just the two oldest gihls. I had someone else test them this year. It was very nice! Can't wait to see the results. Well the detailed results. I have the preliminary ones. Let's just say...they are brilliant, lol.

Now we are going to make some peanut butter cookies from our kitchen primer. Thanks to the Rebs!!!!!!

My Secret Weapon

2008-04-05T21:35:00.002-04:00

My laundry is under control. It is not overflowing. Two loads a day (approx.) are getting washed, dried, folded and put away. (Now with 6 kiddos it is never all done. If it even remotely gets close to be all done, someone will have a major incident that will require all new clothes.)

Would you like to know my secret weapon?

Bekah, age 9, laundry specialist. She has been giving the responsibility of handling the laundry. She is doing fabulous! Now, she does not fold alone. Siblings help! But she must do a check and make sure all is put away. She has been helping with laundry for a while and I decided she was ready for the task. How did I know she was ready? She is the only child who can empty the washer without falling in. Hee hee. Top loader here.

I highly recommend everyone having a laundry specialist!!

It got a little blurry...

2008-04-01T21:31:00.002-04:00

my focus, my vision, my goal....it got blurry. Thankfully, I realized things didn't look right around here. God helped me to see things a bit more clearly.

I love my little red-headed LuLu Punkin Head......when she quietly cuddles up next to you. Just to sit. Just because you are her mommy. What a loyal friend she is.

For my precious, beautiful Bekah....who hands hold, cuddle, lift the little ones. What a wonderful mommy she will be. I pray God blesses her with many little ones.

Caleb; aka Buddy; for his patience with all these hormones, for loving being his daddy's shadow, for letting LuLu be his.

My Mary....silly, giggly, smiling, goofy...sunshine to my day......

Hannah....bundle of energy full of life.....embracing all that is new.....loving the rain and good water.

Sarah...sweetness....chubby cheek cuddles.....liquid sugar.....full arms....

Eddie..strong arms to hold me safe and close....God's blessing to me......I am so cherished...

My vision is a bit blurry again....but for the right reason...tears of happiness and thankfulness...Thank you, Lord for my family.

The Exterminator strikes again....

2008-03-29T22:20:00.002-04:00

Tonight, while I was cooking dinner, I sent a certain child to go take a shower. She heads off to down the hall and I continue cooking. As I'm cooking, I hear her call out to me that she needs help. I'm thinking this is not good timing as my hands are full of raw meat. Ugh.

Before I could ask what was wrong she informs me in an elevated tone of voice (yes she was almost screaming) that there was a bug in the bathroom. I didn't even have a chance to give the deep sigh I felt coming before....(insert music) Super Caleb comes to the rescue. He jumped up from his book and said "I'm coming."

Now, folks, you really should have heard him. It was hilarious. His tone said "I'm coming again to save you from some tiny little bug but I love you, so I'll come even though this book is really interesting."

So he gets to the bathroom and knocks, waits and then goes in. He was waiting to make sure she was dressed, lol. We all appreciate his respect of privacy. Then I hear him come out and go to his room. A few minutes later he returns to the kitchen.

I ask if he took care of the problem. He informed me that yes it was a "Longleg Grandpa" and he scraped it on the bottom of his boot. I think he meant a Daddy Longlegs spider but not really a spider looking things.

I don't care what it was. He killed it. So I didn't have to try to convince myself that I could kill a bug. Yes, I am terrified of creepy, crawly little things. Yes, he kills bugs for me, too. All of the girls love him for this wonderful act of chivalry.

He also blessed me in another way during dinner...he kept Miss Perfect Timing Sarah happy. Of course, I think she is nice and content and go to fix dinner. As soon as I get the rice in the pot she starts screaming. 40 minutes he sat with her acting goofy and making her laugh. I know this because I was cooking brown rice, lol. That boy is priceless!

In other news, he remembered to wash his ears. Woo hoo!

Workman's Comp? Disability Pay?

2008-03-24T22:11:00.002-04:00

Yes, today we had to look into these options. One of our workers recieved an injury. Don't worry. Everyone is OK.

Rebekah was doing a lovely job this morning of unloading clean dishes from the dishwasher and reloading dirty ones. She does a fabulous job each and every day with an occasional wet spot on her shirt or perhaps a forgotten spoon in the sink. However, today was no ordinary day. I suppose Bekah wanted a little excitement.

She had a glass bowl in her hand and it ended up on the floor not in one piece. Nope, not one piece but several. And a piece or two, landed in her leg. Ouch.

I have to say that Bekah is usually one who flips our over the slightest cut or scrape. Her pain tolerance is non-existent. But my girl is maturing; she did not scream or fall to pieces. She looked down, began quietly crying and told me she was hurt. I, thankfully, was right there and told her to go the living room and have a seat. Mary ran to get a wet washcloth and I began picking up glass. As she hopped on one leg to get to a seat, she actually apologized for breaking the bowl. Bless her heart!

I then gather tweezers, paper towels and my phone. Mmmhmmm, I don't do injuries, lol. I was calling daddy. I could not get daddy thanks to a malfunctioning phone so I text him and proceeded to look into the wound, laceration, cut!

I could clearly see a piece of glass. I explained to her that I had to get it out. Daddy wasn't coming. I reminded her that jerking or pushing would only make it worse. She did great. I pulled out a small piece with the tweezers. The blood kept pooling up so I couldn't see. Now, I put on a good front but inside I was FREAKING OUT! Ew, gross, ick. Why was Eddie not home for this???? I kept trying to dab it away and she kept (calmly) reminding me that it hurt.

I knew I needed to clean the blood off but could not at the moment think of how to do it without getting blood all over my floor and causing her to lose the control she was holding on to. (let me interject here; set the scene for you. You where Bekah is, bleeding and praying for her daddy. Sarah is ready for a nap, but I'm delayed in getting her in her bed. She is wailing. She is loud. She is mad. Hannah, 2, is chosen to take this opportunity to get upset with Lydia over ????? who knows. Caleb is trying his best to get up close and personal with the wound. Mary is cleaning the bathroom. On task. I like that girl.)

So I decide to wait it out. Give daddy a bit of time to come home from his meeting. I give Bekah a book and tell her not to move. Thankfully, daddy arrived home and took over! He was trained as a combat medic in the military and it is a beautiful thing! He instructed her to go to the bathtub and pour water over her leg to clean off the blood. He told her to do it herself with as much water and as fast or slow as she wanted. She did fabulously! She kept flinching when the water ran over it so Eddie said he knew from that flinching that glass was probably still in the cut.

He was right. After it was nice and clean and soft, he told her he was going to touch it to see how it was doing. He reached down and yanked that glass so fast she didn't have time to react. I would have done it as slowly as possible out of fear of hurting her. The girl had a huge chunk of glass in her leg! Huge!

So he got it fixed right up with a band aid. Then he gave her workman's comp in the way of two packs of Smarties.

Crazy girl thought that an injury meant she could lay in her bed and read all day.

For a friend...

2008-03-24T08:59:00.002-04:00

Here you go, Jennifer....just wanted to share that Milo was not alone.

The Moffats...

2008-03-23T22:01:00.002-04:00

Need a great family read aloud? Does your son/daughter need a good read? The Moffats are a delightful family and a joy to read! All of my kiddos have loved this series. If I remember correctly there are 4 books in the series. Eleanor Estes does a fabulous job inviting us into the life of the Moffats. A definite must read!!!

Twaddle? Maybe.....but....

2008-03-23T20:49:00.003-04:00

if you have ever had a cat, you will appreciate this book!

This one had hubby and I chuckling as we had a cat who could have been Chester's twin. "All about me." Cute. No great literary masterpiece but fun! This author also wrote:

Another cute little laugh with this one.

Resurrection Sunday 2008

2008-03-23T19:35:00.003-04:00

I often fail miserably at celebrating holidays or special occassions. However, in this ongoing process of teaching myself to sew, I make a point to sew coordinating dresses for the girls. They look forward to them each year! This was the fourth set of Easter dresses? The first year it was simple tie jumpers. I am by no means a talented seamstress but my girls are happy. Now a few pictures from our day!

These are not in any set order. You will see later that she did have a ribbon in her hair.
Lydia. She looked like such a big girl!

Hannah loved her pantaloons.

There's the ribbon and tamed hair!!!

Hmmm, pouty.

Are they adorable or what?

My big girls!

Bekah

Caleb aka The Boy (Big thanks to the Rebels!!!)

Mary

Cuties

The Tribe

The Tribe and Mom

Eddie & Sweetie

Daddy & the Tribe

The Boys

We hope to go have an official family photo taken soon!!!

Good Night

2008-03-22T23:27:00.002-04:00

I'm going to bed. All 5 Easter dresses and 2 pairs of pantaloons are done. Night.

He is Boy.

2008-03-21T17:34:00.007-04:00

Yes. It is a trashcan.

Free Rosetta Stone?

2008-03-21T13:28:00.001-04:00

Rosetta Stone has been the #1 foreign language curriculum among homeschoolers for a while -- next week they are unleashing a brand new curriculum, and you can WIN the *all new* Rosetta Stone Homeschool Version 3… FOR FREE!
This is a $219 program (and believe me it's worth every penny!) and the winner gets to pick from any of these 14 languages: Spanish (Spain or Latin America), English (American or British), Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Irish, Hebrew, or Russian.
This will also include a headset with microphone, and students will participate in lifelike conversations and actually produce language to advance through the program. Rosetta Stone still incorporates listening, reading and writing as well, in addition to speaking. Many homeschoolers requested grammar and vocabulary exercises, and with Rosetta Stone Homeschool Version 3, they're included! For parents, the new Parent Administrative Tools are integrated into the program and allow parents to easily enroll students in any of 12 predetermined lesson plans, monitor student progress, and view and print reports.

To win this most excellent program -- in the language of your choice -- copy these (blue) paragraphs and post it in (or as) your next blog post -- then to enter the contest, go to the original contest page HERE: http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/JenIG/501132/ and leave a comment with the link showing where you blogged about it. And please make sure the link works to get back to the original contest page when you post it. And good luck! The winner will be picked randomly on March 26, and will be notified thru the link they left to their blog pg. And if you have more than one blog, you can post them and enter those separately for more chances to win. Yay for free stuff!

Thought provoking post alert......

2008-03-19T21:54:00.002-04:00

I have pondered over this post all day. (No, Lori it is not the post you are waiting for.) Finally, I am at a point I can share my deep, thought provoking question...

Why is baby drool adorable and not digusting? She loves her fingers! The Boppy was soaked. But, oh so sweet! It gets even better, folks.

Deep thoughts shared here on the harsh realities of life......

Important lessons on cute faces to use to wrap Daddy tightly around your finger...

I think she is giving all her lessons deep thought....

***Big, huge, gigantic hugs to our Rebels for the awesome swing. It has been a huge blessing! After 4 no swinging kiddos, we have a swinger, lol.***

The Case of the Clean Dishes

2008-03-18T20:56:00.002-04:00

I have a really bad habit. I am constantly forgetting to run the dishwasher before I go to bed. Some nights, one of the girls will run it before they go to bed but that means a cup or plate will be left in the sink overnight. (Yes, I snack after my kiddos are in bed and yes, by the time I go to bed I'm too tired to handwash a silly, little cup.)

Most nights, I tell them to wait because I'll be adding dishes and I'll run it before I go to bed. I know inwardly, they must be thinking (in a most respectfuly way), "right, sure, mmhmmm".

So on to the mystery of clean dishes...

Kiddos were in bed last night. I take a sewing break and go to grab something to drink. The dishwasher was running. Hmmm, I think to myself. One of the girls must have started it for me. How sweet.

This morning I ask them, who started the dishwasher. They looked at each other and then at me. I was quickly informed that they did not do it. Ok...... hmm, who did. Finally, Caleb spoke up and said he started. How sweet! He had gotten up to get a drink of water. When he loaded his cup in the dishwasher he decided to run it for me.

Way to go, Caleb!!!

Tonight he got up for his nightly sip of water and I asked him to do it for me. He was like a soldier preparing for battle. "I'll take care of it, mom." What a guy! I love that fella!

**********

In other news, completely unrelated to the above posting....

Hannah would like you all to know that at dinner she had *good water*. She told me several times that it was good water, with an affirming nod of her head. It must have been some seriously delicious water!

So sweet....

2008-03-17T08:21:00.003-04:00

All the kiddos are getting dressed this morning. I pull out a "new to her" dress for Hannah. We walk into the living room where Caleb is already up and dressed.

Hannah - "Buddy, look. Buddy, look." (meaning look at my fabulous new dress)

Caleb - "Nice, let me see the back. Very pretty." (meaning I'm the lone boy in the midst of girls, I know the right thing to say so they will leave me alone.)

Ok, maybe that isn't what he was thinking. But it was sweet how she went running to show him and how he took the time to make her feel pretty.

Now he is playing with a football in my living room. Hmm......

Hannah

2008-03-14T22:26:00.004-04:00

The prettiest flower in the garden.....

Hidden Treasure

She was trying on daddy's new hat and saying "cheese". I think she wears it well!

Hmm, not sure it is her hat size!

Wearing it with style!

Shop Class, Art Class or ??????

2008-03-14T21:37:00.004-04:00

Let me prepare you now....there are no photos. However, the lack of photography is not due to me! Photography was not allowed in the outdoor studio, workshop, etc.

Today was a gorgeous day and what might be the last gorgeous day until next week. So we took full opportunity! The kiddos headed out and put aside their weapons of war and engaged in another of their many talents.

They began with pvc pipe and cement. After lunch on to blocks of wood, screws, toolbox, tape and markers. These creations could not be photographed since they are gifts. So, shhhhh.....don't tell. I should have snuck one or two, but you never know when an artist/craftman might catch you sneaking about. I couldn't risk losing my gift!!!!

After lunch it was on to making leaf people. Fabulous little folks. By far, my favorite was the Rock Family. They gathered rocks and decorated them with markers. Rebekah gave her Rock Family a full wardrobe. The dad had a handsome suit. Mom has a lovely dress. It is so cute!!! Want a new look? Switch you rocks. Ancient time paper dolls?

I do not have a picture of the Rock Family. I could not get a good shot. I will try again. It is seriously cute!

Winding your bobbin...

2008-03-13T22:11:00.002-04:00

Tonight, I am of course sewing on Mary's Easter dress. It has been a long day and sewing is not really what I wanted to do. However, I had to push what I wanted to do aside (which was nothing, lol) and do what was needed. As always, once I got the machine purring, I could not imagine doing anything else.

The Lord is so awesome and He is so gracious to me! What does this have to do with sewing? Everything!

I had sewn the pieces of the front and back panels of the skirt. I was getting ready to sew the panels together. The thought crossed my mind that I should check my bobbin to see if I had enough thread on there. Then I told myself not to worry. It had not been that long since I had a full bobbin loaded and ready to go! I set the machine to purring. I finished the sewing the panels together and snipped the threads. To prepare for the next step, I went to pull the bobbin thread. Only a wisp of the thread was left and came out as I pulled. Not even an inch of thread was left on the bobbin!

Then the Lord opened my eyes to something else. I am the same way. I just prayed the other day. I just read my Bible the other day. I just found encouragement from fellow believers the other day. I just worshipped You the other day. I'm good. I have enough to keep going. I have enough of You to get through this day. I'll talk to You, God when I'm done with this or that. I'll serve You when I'm finished with what I'm doing over here.

Wow. Thank you Lord for opening my eyes. I know my "bobbin" is at the end. I keep saying I'll rewind it in a minute. Just let me finish this Lord before I pick up Your Word. I need to *insert whatever task/activity that fits* and then I'll lift up praise to You.

But.....what if I wait to long. If I don't check, I'll never know how close to being empty my bobbin is. I don't want to be in the middle of a trial or temptation and be out of thread! I want to keep my "bobbin" full at all times!

Oh Lord, forgive me for pushing You aside for other things. Father, help me thirst for Your Word and help me praise You! Father, fill me up Lord and pour me out.

Amen.

Beautiful...

2008-03-13T12:03:00.001-04:00

Goofing off with Bekah got me this:

This, however, is the real Rebekah:

She is beautiful; inside and out!

A Few Thoughts....

2008-03-12T23:11:00.002-04:00

Thankfully, I had enough of the fabric to fix my rip! Oh, I am so happy. Wait. Did I post about how I ripped the fabric of the 2nd dress? I have no clue. This week has been a blur.

Anyhoo, progress continues! What a thrill to hear the sewing machine purr! I love to sew!

I purchased some yummy fabrics today! So fun springy bright fabric for the girls. Even better, some yummy fabric for me! I am tossing ideas around on how to make the perfect, fun summer skirt for me! I promise to post a pic when it is done. Seriously. Just wait until after March 23rd. Nothing gets sewn until these dresses are sewn!

Also, I have not forgotten about the chore lists. I will get them up in the next day or so. Keep on me about it! Nothing earth shattering. Just simple stuff like scrub the floors with a toothbrush. No, I'm kidding. Although I remember doing that as a child, lol.

Hmmm, was there anything else I needed to share......

Of course, as soon as I started blogging, I forgot. It is late. I should be in bed but well I was sewing! Priorities people!

My plan is to get Mary's dress finished tomorrow and the pattern cut out for Lydia's. With speech tomorrow, that might be all I can get done.

I will be posting some pics hopefull tomorrow.

Back to Home Ec.

2008-03-11T22:55:00.002-04:00

We had another lovely lesson in Home Ec today. I have a wonderful clothesline! It is lovely. Four lines. Yes, four glorious lines on which to hang my clothing. Even better, hubby made it custom for my size.

It is even more wonderful in that it is my girls' size, too. They were very excited to discover that they could reach the clothesline easily. So guess what they ask to go every day that is warm and sunny enough? Yes. They want to hang out clothes. No problem!

Today they hung out all the cloth diapers. They were laughing and having such a great time! This afternoon there was a mad race to get them off the line. What a blessing!!!

In progress...

2008-03-11T22:52:00.002-04:00

The second dress is underway....however....I ripped a hole in it while working on it tonight. I am praying that I have enough scraps leftover to repair it! I was trying to multi-task. Not a good idea.

I should be able to get it done by tomorrow night. Then hopefully have dress #3 done by Saturday night.

This leaves 2 for the final week and of course a skirt for me. Maybe.

14 Days to Go

2008-03-08T23:59:00.002-05:00

Yes, Mary, issued you me a countdown encouragement tonight. As she was heading to bed, we were discussing the Easter dresses. She informed me that I had 14 days to go. No pressure. Really. No problem.

*gulp*

I do have an update or progress report. Bekah's dress is done except for the hem!!! Mary's dress is cut out (so thankful there was enough fabric!) and I will begin sewing it tomorrow night.

Then 3 dresses to go after that. Oh and a skirt for me. Unless I miraculously lose 5 or so pounds in 2 weeks. And considering the piece of cake I just ate, that is not likely.

Well, I could use a new skirt or two, right?

I'll post pics soon. I must say that I think Bekah's dress looks lovely. She was very pleased.

Home Ec 101

2008-03-07T10:28:00.002-05:00

This is a very important subject/educational area that we must not overlook! Sadly, this is one I fail too often! I was never really "taught" how to run a home efficiently and productively. At my advanced age, hee hee, I am still struggling to run a home well. Do I want to pass this struggle along to my children? No!

This is why I am trying to make a conscience effort to train my children to love taking care of a home and the ability to do it well!

Today's task....the pantry. Mary is my "love to organize" gal so I knew this would be a perfect job for her! I told her last night that today she would have a special project. She could hardly sleep last night she was so excited. OK, she hates going to sleep and the special project had nothing to do with it. Let's pretend because it makes the story so much better, don't you think? Anyhoo....this morning she was eagerly awaiting her assignment. And she tackled it with gusto!

I do not have before pics. I was busy with a sick little one. But imagine a shopping trip for a family of 8 and all the purchases shoved into the pantry as quickly as possible. Lovely picture, isn't it? Now it looks lovely! Yes, lovely! She did a wonderful job! I do have pics of "after" but I'm having a bit of a camera temper tantrum so photos will come later.

She is also a great encourager, teacher, delegater (aka bossy) and got the little one helping her. Very sweet! And what a lesson to me on how I miss so many opportunities to teach/train my little ones!

Aha! I just thought of another Home Ec lesson! This morning I asked Mary if she could cook the eggs for breakfast. She was delighted of course. I walk into the kitchen and see Hannah (2) stirring the eggs for Mary. Mary is just a great teacher! And she was so patient with Hannah; cause well Hannah didn't want to cook the eggs. She just wanted to stir them all day. Thankfully, Mary remained calm and got the eggs in her possession and everyone was fed.

So 2 Home Ec lessons for Mary!

Now.......who wants to clean my office????

Errand day!!

2008-02-28T23:04:00.002-05:00

Today was an errand day. Really, a mission day. I was on a mission!

My son had speech (it takes an hour to get there) and I had a few other places in this town to go. One was homeschool store. Not a must; but a want. It had been forever since I had been and I wanted to pick up a few things. Always fun!

But my mission was fabric for Easter/Resurrection Sunday. Yes, I know when it is. Yes, I know that it will take a miracle for me to get 5 dresses made by then. I will get it done. My new chorelist and schedule will help me. Right? Please tell me I'm right. Let me live in denial as long as possible.

Anyhoo, I found it. Not my first choice. But, it had to have blue and /or green in it. Hubby requested blue in it so that the boys could wear blue shirts with khaki pants. That was hard. I found one or two I liked, but never enough. Ugh! Finally, found some that was ho-hum but the girls loved it. Not enough for all the girls. Oh well. I have two differenct fabrics. Both yellow and blue. So they will coordinate but not match perfectly. Great. That actually had been my original plan. Loved how that worked out.

So, fabric is washing. I always prewash. Tomorrow I will iron and start cutting out Rebekah's. Why? She is the hardest to buy for! In a pinch, the little girls can get a dress from just about anywhere. Not Rebekah. Shame on her for being so tall!

Ok. It is getting late and I need to crash. My early bird kiddos, well, get up early, lol.

Attention!!

2008-02-28T23:01:00.002-05:00

That's what I am going to be getting. My children's attention. We have been very lax around here about chores and being diligent workers in the home and about our school work. We had a move and a new baby and new job for daddy all which have thrown our schedule out of whack.

But no more!!! I just finished a newly updated chore list. Oh, won't they be excited!!! I'm finishing up the schedule. Oh, they are going to be jumping for joy!!!

To keep myself accountable and to entertain the 3 or 4 folks who read my blog, I will be posting the chores and schedule over the weekend.

Fun, fun, fun!!!

He really loves me!

2008-02-27T22:57:00.003-05:00

And homemade bread, lol.

After months of waiting and waiting, Eddie got me a Bosch. I made bread tonight. And cinnamon rolls. My house smells so yummy! My hubby is so happy, lol. He says it was for me. But I know the real reason. He wanted fresh, yummy, hot homemade bread and lots of it.

My kiddos love it, too. Wonder how often I will have to make bread?

The Quiet at the End of the Day....

2008-02-27T22:48:00.002-05:00

This morning I dragged myself out of bed. And, honestly, I wasn't happy about it. Through the night, several knocks had come to my bedroom door. Different kiddos needing mommy in the middle of the night. The alarm clock had tried to get me up. It failed. I got up to nurse my little Snookums. And we shared a wonderful nap together.

I decided to not let my interrupted sleep or my late start set the course for my day. I'm an adult. Yes, I am. I can reason and choose how to react. I can choose wisely, with help from Him. I prayed to God during my quick shower; to help me patient, to be kind and to be loving.

He is an amazing and awesome God. And we had a great day getting much accomplished. More than I expected since we had a late start.

Now it is quiet...all the kiddos are cuddled up and sleeping. The washing machine has stopped, the dishwasher is done.......Ahhhh........

Time to sit and reflect. To plan for tomorrow. We will have a full day tomorrow. I'm praying now that I will choose to enjoy it. It is going to be a long day. I'm praying for a fun, long day.

The Joys of Having a Toddler

2008-02-25T18:53:00.004-05:00

Hannah did this the other day. She heard someone mention apple bread. She then said "apple bread", waved her arms really big. When the girls were telling us the story, Hannah felt is was extremely funny. And shared "The Laugh". Now we get her to do it all the time. Enjoy. Laugh a little. It's good for your health. Then have a slice of apple bread.

Apple Bread

Science ~ Daddy's Turn

2008-02-20T22:02:00.002-05:00

I meant to post these yesterday but never got around to blogging. I know you were all dying to see hubby's delight in being sprayed.

He had no clue what was going to happen. He gets sprayed once. Look how happy he is!

Then he gets sprayed again. "Hey, hey, hey..." Oh, I was dying.

Hey, let me try....or retaliation.

It was harder than it looked, lol. But he got it.

Hmmm, wonder what is next in our experimenting.....

Why I Love Homeschooling- Reason 934,801

2008-02-18T20:57:00.002-05:00

Science. I finally enjoy science and learn something, too! Seriously, science was never my favorite subject. Never. Now, I am having a blast teaching it to my kiddos!

I love Caleb's excitement when I finally got it to work. The little dot on his face is actually a water droplet.

We use the Exploring Science with Creation series by Jeannie Fulbright that is published by Apologia. We did Astronomy last year and have begun Zoology 1.

Look at those cheeks! Caleb practising his technique.

Today we were talking about flight; learning about air pressure, airfoil, lift, drag etc. Our experiment was on how air pressure creates lift.

She wanted to get me wet. Lovely. But I was a fun mom today.

We created a faster moving air pressure on top, which was less force and so water shot out of the straw. My counter was covered in water!

Rebekah helping out. Concentrate....

We had a wonderful discussion on aerodynamics and such. Did a little notebooking and drawing. Even the 4yr old learned a thing or two.

Notice how she holds the straw....hmmm....

Blurry spots are evidence of my wet camera...all in the name of science!

Some of us begged to get sprayed. Weird homeschool kiddos!

They, of course, want to share this knowledge of air pressure and lift with their daddy. Yes, I will take pictures!

She patiently sat and waited for her turn to get wet. She loved it, silly Peanut.

Wonder what we will learn next???

Snookums....

2008-02-13T22:11:00.002-05:00

aka Snookie Pie...

Just because....

Does life get any better?

Speechless..

2008-02-13T22:01:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I am speechless. Sometimes I just laugh because well that is about all I can do. My children. Do you have children? Mmmhmmm. You know what I mean. Their brains. Interesting little contraptions. Do I get bored at home all day? Um, no, lol. Are you kidding me?

I had taken some photos of an educational endeavor yesterday. (This have the possibility of being a blog post.) Tonight, I decide to go ahead and upload the photos and clear off the camera. Well, imagine my surprise at what I found. I had forgotten that Mary had asked to take photos yesterday evening. The girl has a good eye for photographical moments. (Is that a word?)

I think the dirt got scared and ran. I almost fell out of my seat when this popped up on my screen. Bekah is hilarious. She explained that she was chasing Mary with the vacuum. Oh, I thought you were, um, I don't know, vacuuming? Hmmm, at least the floor was clean.

Is that not one pitiful face? Somebody go find that boy's lost dog! I have no clue why he looks so sad. Breaks a momma's heart.

15 Minutes Better

2008-02-11T19:37:00.000-05:00

A few days ago, I read about 15 Minutes Better at Owlhaven's. It really struck a chord with me and felt this was the perfect week to try to get out of the rut!

So my 15 minutes better were:

1 - Dancing w/ my 2yr old while heating dinner; she giggled so much. It was great to hear after her being sick for a week! I kept stepping on her toes with she found delightful!

2- Played Memory with my 4yr dd. And I lost!!!! She was a gracious winner and gave me her last match.

3- I made orange juice with Buddy. Not sure why this thrilled him but it did. He woke before the others and after scaring me half to death sneaking into the kitchen, he asked if he could make the OJ.

Making it Monday...

2008-02-11T07:51:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting here in quiet. In stillness. Thinking. The kiddos are still in bed; very unusual. I think this moment of stillness is from the Lord. He knows the struggle I have had the past few weeks. He knows where I am and what I need. What a loving Father I have!

A moment to reflect and think about the day ahead.

Making it Monday. It is going to be a making it Monday. I pray that I can make it a productive Monday; that we can make it a fun, silly Monday; that we can make it a rejoicing Monday.

What are you going to "make it" today?

And another one bites the dust....

2008-02-10T16:21:00.000-05:00

This was taken yesterday. She told me she wasn't tired and didn't need a nap. So I had her sit beside me. It took all of, hmmm, 2 minutes? Tomorrow, will be one week since *the cold bug* hit our home. Please tell me he is packing up and leaving??

Enjoying nature study...

2008-02-09T15:22:00.000-05:00

We have been blessed with some lovely sunny, warm weather. That means the kiddos can go outside and run, run, run!! (Well those that are well enough at the moment!) What a beautiful learning experience to go out and enjoy God's amazing creation.

Rebekah got up close and personal with nature...birds to be exact.....

In case the photo is not clear enough....bird poopie....but her face....

She came running inside; half laughing half ewwwwwing. I had to take a picture of her face. Oh my. Priceless. I told her to be glad it wasn't her hair, lol. And unfortunately, she missed what type of bird it was.

Comfy?

2008-02-09T14:21:00.001-05:00

The past week, the Tribe has been sharing the love. Ok, really we have been sharing the germs. Ugh. Some flu/cold stuff. Some of us have bounced back a bit quicker than others. Some of the Tribe have made sure to get plenty of rest. Right when he/SHE needs it. So glad I had my camera handy....

She came in and said she just wanted to sit with me and talk. Ok, punkin head. She didn't really talk much. I asked her if she wanted to get a blanket and pillow and use the floor. No thank you, mommy. I just want to sit and talk. Hmmm, sure......

Well, ok, the floor was a good idea. But I can't give up this comfy chair!

Gotcha! At least, she woke up happy and amazingly, did not complain about her neck, back or any other body part being in pain. I would have been in pain for a week had I slept in a chair, lol. She is still not back to 100%. Awww, poor punkin head!

9 years and counting....

2008-02-07T18:07:00.000-05:00

I feel like it has been 9 years since I started this blog entry and it seems as if something always happens the moment I sit down to work on finishing. But what has really been 9 years and counting is:

Rebekah Grace, just a few days old in this photo, born Jan 31st 7:33 am weighing in at 8lbs 4oz. She had a very big head. Trust me. I don't remember the measurement but she had a big head. She was one big bundle of pure joy! She chubbed up so fast and was a hunk of love! What a joy she was to me. I remember days of just lying around with her napping on top of me, sitting on the floor just watching her see something for the first time, delighting in her laughter. She still laughs a lot and is still a pure joy!

What I once held in my arms, is almost as tall as me now. I can no longer lift her up to my face, I barely have to look down. What I once held in my arms, now takes a load out of them. Rebekah is an amazing young lady. Yes, at only 9. She loves to take care of her younger siblings, Hannah and Sarah. She changes diapers, prepares meals, helps with laundry, cleans the kitchen and always finds time for a good read.

She has always enjoyed helping with the little ones. Mary and Rebekah are only 14.5 mths apart. They have been the best of friends since they became sisters. Rebekah always wanted to be a helper. She was great at making Mary laugh.

Yep. Gravel. She still likes to get dirty. And she still looks great in a hat. This is one of my all time favorite photos of her. Just adorable trouble!

Little momma.

Age 7 I think. 2 yrs ago. Wow, at the difference!

Yep, around here you cook your own birthday breakfast. Ok, she wanted to. I didn't make her. She loves to make pancakes and these were loaded, I mean packed, full of chocolate chips. We heard no complaints on her breakfast choice. Ok, there was some complaining. Her other meal was hot dogs and mac & cheese. Oh. My. I love her. You know I do. (I ate something else, lol)

Books. The Melendy Series. Great books. Her birthday was on Jan. 31st. She finished the series Feb 2nd I think? Help! I prayed that my kiddos would love to read. When they were babies I promised myself I would read to them every chance I could. It stuck. The girl always has a book in her hand. Right now as I type this entry, where is she? With a book. Yep.

Give me my chocolate, now! Grrrr....... I tell ya, the girl is funny!

Cookie! Chocolate chip. Lots of chocolate chips. Yummmmmmyyyyyyyyyy! It was sooo good!

Cookies and milk. Does it get any better? The girl also loves her milk.

Wow. See, I told you I don't have to lift her up anymore. I was barely leaning over. Honestly, I am trying so hard not to cry so I can get this posted. I don't know if I can put into words how much I love this girl and how amazing she is. God has blessed us with a lovely young lady. Where did the 9 years go?

And, well, there ya go.......

Finally! Pictures!

2008-01-28T21:07:00.000-05:00

Hi, Mag!!! Giggle, giggle all the time. Silly girl!

Jay waited all weekend to hold Sarah. He got her, finally, on Sunday afternoon. Not her best time of day. But Jay was great in the midst of her screaming. K will have to post a pic of Sarah with her cute new toy from Jay.

Aaron was hilarious. A great conversationalist. Sarah appreciated his sense of humor.

Parker, giving the oh so cute "tough guy" look. He is getting so big! And he is fast!

Rocklin taking a picture of Bekah....say cheese! In the few pics I have of Rocklin, either they are blurry or Mary cut his head off. But! I have a great pic of his smile!

The Tribe loves the Rebels!