Butterfly Kisses

Bound for greatness

2011-09-26T13:24:00.001-04:00

This girl was born for something great.

Like maybe the stage and she will follow in Aunt Jayme's footsteps.

I cannot begin to tell you how she blesses my heart. And melts me.

Here she tells of how her tooth came out last night, with a little help from her big brother.

She would hardly let me touch the tooth, but he, oh HE is allowed to help with tooth pulling. It's quite an honor.

And so she has lost another tooth. The much anticipated Other Front Tooth. The one that was momentarily upstaged by a silly little bottom tooth that popped out earlier this week. The one that now leaves her mouth exquisitely gaping and not a little like her infancy when those top two came in after her incisors.

Sweet little face.

A little late with the change of seasons

2011-07-01T15:18:00.000-04:00

Wow. It's a little chilly with the snow on my background picture. I've already missed spring, I guess I should change that and maybe the warmth of JULY will help me to get back to writing.

Just watching Oliver play

2011-05-13T12:15:00.000-04:00

If it has wheels, he's going to line it up.

He's very much like his big brother in this.

Sorry it's a little dark.

Blue eyes turn Hazel

2010-12-18T13:21:00.000-05:00

And he can balance a turtle on his head. A very talented seventeen monther.

Getting warmed up

2010-12-13T10:38:00.000-05:00

I started writing here because just after Annabelle was born my sister moved 900 miles away to pursue her dreams and I wanted a way to keep her close. In May of 2009 Jayme graduated from the Boston Conservatory and in October of 2010 she completed and performed her thesis (both events I was blessed to be able to attend.) Now with the possibility of a move closer to her roots, and the growth of my family, it seems the mission of my writing has evolved a bit.

I find I'm writing more for my children, to make a record of their days and to remember the precious things they say.

I considered just writing again starting from today, but that would create such a large gap in our year, and I don't want to miss anything for them. So, I've decided to back post a bit. Hope you don't mind!

Today it's very cold outside and we're expecting up to twenty inches of snow. We're on winter break, and although I have many chores waiting for me it seems like the perfect time to get started. Again.

Community Children's Choir Christmas concert

2010-12-13T00:52:00.000-05:00

My heart swells as I watch them up there singing these beautiful classic Christmas songs that the very talented and dedicated directors have taught them.

This concert has become such a special part of our Christmas tradition and this year Bronwen is thrilled to be in it too.

Birthday boy in the house

2010-10-18T01:40:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was Noah's 9th birthday. We spent the night before in Roscoe IL with family celebrating his cousin's birthday and picking up our new puppy.

Today we had the family over to celebrate this great boy.

not this one, though he's pretty great too. Grandma and Grandpa sure think so!

This one! the one punch drunk with puppy love. The one who has stolen my heart and melts me with his dark chocolate eyes. The one with a servant's heart and a deep tenderness for the things of the Lord. He's going to do great things someday and I know this because he's already doing great things now. He's got what it takes. It thrills my heart to see how the little ones look up to him already.

i think their older cousin C is teaching them the finer points of gel window art.

I don't know but she may be telling him how to take care of split ends. That would not surprise me at all.
cousin M with a knowing look and a twinkle in her eye. She's such an amazing girl!

Best buddy B, because what's a space party without your right hand man?

Oh right. And this happened two nights ago. I may post about it later.

Cupcake frenzy from the cupcake Grandma.

The eldest lady in the family holds a tete a tete with the youngest and littlest lady.

Gotta love the technology. Aunt Jayme, faithful as ever to attend every party via skype from Boston.
No, it's not a frog it's a rocket ship!

Clever placement of the candles makes this rocket looking ready for blast off!

Happy birthday Noah!

A new addition

2010-10-17T13:27:00.000-04:00

Introducing the newest member of our family! Purple girl was born August 23 into a litter of 13! Her mama's such a trooper. The breeder color codes the babies and this one was dotted with a purple spot on her shoulder. Of course my girls were thrilled and want to keep calling her purple girl. She still has no name that we all can agree upon.

We picked her up yesterday, on Noah's birthday. That's why he has such a goofy grin on his face. He just turned nine and he has a puppy. She's the family pet, but he reminds me, we did get her on his birthday.

Cooper, the resident Jack Russel doesn't quite know what to think, but he hasn't realized she's a dog yet.

for a new look

2010-08-23T10:07:00.000-04:00

Did you notice? Something must have happened to the link where I pinched my last background. The colorful cut paper flowers are missing so I am faced with a decision: use another free background, or perhaps purchase a custom made one.

As I am determined to come back to regular blogging, and thereby exercise my stunted writing ability and exorcise the cursed writer's block, purchasing a custom template is rather appealing.

However, I can be slightly parsimonious and may just stick with another freebie.

Pop in now and again because one of these days I'll be sportin' a new look.

Swimming lessons

2010-07-19T14:46:00.000-04:00

We have the best swim instructor. She loves the kids and well we love her. lots.

Grace is so amazing, she even lets Aurora join the underwater circle. Do you see her there on Grace's shoulder?

Annabelle has no trouble holding her breath and going under. She barely puffs out her cheeks even. Just smiles and bobs under, sometimes not even closing her eyes.

Bronwen on the other hand is much more hesitant - and is always the last one under, and won't get the top of her head wet.

Really, they're all very comfortable in the water.

Memories in Sweden

2010-07-10T14:28:00.000-04:00

When I was in college Grandma, Aunt Bev and I went to Sweden where Grandma's brother's family lives. Here we are in one of her neices front yards. I'm terribly jet lagged but enjoying the trip of a lifetime.

I had promised to take Grandma some day. I'm so glad Aunt Bev could come along.

Painting

2010-07-09T14:25:00.001-04:00

I'm painting again and it feels good.

surprises

2010-07-08T11:59:00.000-04:00

This happy little fellow was not planted by me.

He appeared in my flower bed - which is really more of a weed bed right now - and has brought with himself a cheery promise of hope.

Every time I step out my front door he's there smiling at me. I know He's smiling at me too.

The helmet of Salvation

2010-07-07T18:08:00.000-04:00

The helmet safeguards your mind with the hope of salvation.

We must be cautious what we fill our minds with.

It is our saving help from the power of sin.

Bearing one another's burdens

2010-07-06T11:00:00.000-04:00

June 14

On the day that my aunt and uncle celebrated their 36th wedding anniversary, she was told that she had pancreatic cancer. That was April 6, 2010.

In a whirlwind of 10 weeks that is rocking our world and yet feels achingly like an eternity the cancer has ravaged her body.

Today they have given her a time-stamp of 3 days to 3 weeks until her body will fail and she will die. That's it, her temporal body reduced to statistics, the seconds and minutes ticking away.

June 21

This has been such a difficult post to write. I have struggled with this burden, praying for her healing and knowing that God is fully able to restore her to perfect health . . . yet wondering if the healing will be earthly or heavenly. God has given us so many verses as we stand in the gap for her, yet the doubt creeps in.

My parents just returned yesterday from South Carolina where my aunt lives. She is Dad's baby sister. They went to pray with her, touch her, be with her.

July 6

This morning, very early, before the sun even thought about rising the Savior whispered her name and she went to him.

brothers

2010-07-05T17:14:00.000-04:00

And while we're at it, I can't tell you how much I wanted these two boys. I did not imagine how far apart in age they would be though.

Still, Noah is so glad to have a brother and I know that these guys have what it takes to be best buddies their whole lives through. Its a good feeling as a parent to see that Oliver has such a wonderful big brother to look up to and follow. And I know that Noah will always watch out for his little brother and be there for him.

Now, take a look at this fantastic shot.

It was a complete accident.

That is a yellow finch flying through the for ground and it looks like it has caught the eye of our neighbor's stealthy huntress.

I didn't notice the bird or the cat were even in the shot until I was looking through pictures later.

I just thought you would like to see that.

sisters

2010-07-05T16:50:00.000-04:00

I'm so glad my girls have each other. I pray that they will always be close for not everyone has a built in best friend.

Happy Fourth of July America!

2010-07-04T17:32:00.000-04:00

Writer's block

2010-07-04T14:54:00.001-04:00

I've had a block lately. I've been working on a post that I just can't finish and it has kept me from posting anything else. The situation I want to write about had begun to steal my joy. Not because I have this block, but because of the initially devastating news that was delivered to my extended family in early April. I've begged God to help me believe what He has revealed. I want to know for myself, believe for myself, not because someone, whom I trust, believes. I want Him to speak to me. So, I'm resting in Him, secure in His Peace - the Peace that passes all understanding. And I'm praying . . . intensely . . . interceding on another's behalf. All the while gathering strength in my own walk. It's quite amazing how that works.

For now I'm going to leave you something from one of my favorite books:

"You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will be turned into joy." - John 16:20

"Say not within yourself, "Where is God?" for I am within you, yes, even in your heart, and My hand is upon you. You have looked in vain for Me because you have sought to se Me in circumstances and in people and have said, "I cannot find Him."

O My child, look to Me directly, and rest your heart in Me. Do so with as little distraction as would be easy to do if you were the only human being in the world and therefore would have no one else to look upon and no one else with whom to converse.

Praise Me. This I ask of you in times when it seems indescribably difficult to do so. I ask it of you in love that is stern at this point because I know unequivocally that praise is your only hope for survival. Distress of soul and grief of heart can only bring on destruction of body. Joy alone is a healer, and you can have it in the darkest hour if you will force your soul to rise to Me in worship and adoration. I have not failed you and you have not failed Me. It is only that you have failed yourself - or the disappointment has come on the human plane, not the divine. Why should you allow any human experience to alter or affect your divine relationship with your Father?

Bring Me your sorrow, and watch for the sunrise of the resurrection. Yes, truly there comes always a resurrection - a morning when hope is reborn and life finds new beginning. Wait for it as tulip bulbs anticipate the spring. The rarest blooms are enhanced by the coldness of winter. the snow plays her part in producing spring's pageant. But when the blossoms break through, we do not then turn back to thoughts of winter, but instead, we look ahead to the full joys of the coming summer.

So you must do also. Your God is your maker. He is your defender. And He is mighty to save. Yes, He is not only mighty to save from sin, but He is mighty to save from despair, from sorrow, from disappointment, from regret, from remorse, from self-castigation, and from the hot, blinding tears of rebellion against fateful circumstances. He can save you from yourself, and He loves you when you find it hard to love yourself.

Let His peace flow in you like a river, carrying away all the poison of painful memories, and bringing to you a fresh, clear stream of pure life and restoring thoughts.

This is not the end. Press on. The goal line is out ahead, and you may yet be a winner in the race of life."

~Come Away My Beloved

boys, baseball and fireworks

2010-07-03T17:21:00.000-04:00

I know this is a girl thing, or maybe it's just a mom thing, but don't they look great in their caps?

There's something so All American about that don't you know?

It's never too early

2010-07-01T16:36:00.000-04:00

with this

or this

And that's all I have to say about that!

The Swan

2010-06-30T16:30:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been this close to a swan?

Now, imagine being this small and being close to a bird of that particular size!

Brave girls.

Beautiful, brave girls.

Oh, the places you'll go!

2010-06-25T16:24:00.000-04:00

It's opener there
in the wide open air.

Out there things can happen
and frequently do
to people as brainy
and footsy as you.

~exerpt from "Oh the Places You'll Go" by Dr. Seuss

soapy slip and slide

2010-06-24T16:02:00.000-04:00

Does this mean he doesn't have to take a shower tonight?

Yes. Yes it does.

And I'm thinking of installing one of these babies permanently in the back yard and using it for the whole tribe.

Delicate life

2010-06-23T15:55:00.000-04:00

so is ours in the hands of The Almighty

fairies among us

2010-06-22T15:49:00.000-04:00

I am smitten with this fairy child with clear blue eyes and flaxen hair.

And here is proof that she is indeed part fairy.

trois parapluies

2010-06-21T15:42:00.000-04:00

Umbrella Fun

Umbrellas are for make-believe
The one I have is red.
I twirl it upside down
and it's a carousel instead.
I use it for a parachute
(I don't jump very far.)
Or else I walk a tightrope
On the shadow of a bar
I think it must be magic, too.
My mother was upset
the day it vanished in the rain
And I got soaking wet.

~ Cheryl's Sweethearts ChildCare

Father's Day

2010-06-20T16:45:00.000-04:00

Daddy, I love you
For all that you do.
I'll kiss you and hug you
'Cause you love me, too.

You feed me and need me
To teach you to play,
So smile 'cause I love you
On this Father's Day.

Girl in red painting on the patio

2010-06-17T15:36:00.000-04:00

i wonder what you are thinking as you daintly press your imaginations onto the wet paper.

Spinner of upside down bike wheels

2010-06-16T15:27:00.000-04:00

Have you got one of these?

They're very handy to have around the homestead.

I'm lucky because I have two.

Sprinkler Sprites

2010-06-15T15:13:00.000-04:00

What's that?

You don't have a pool, you say?

No matter.

Maybe the sprinkler sprites will visit you too and take the summer blues away!

Oliver's book review

2010-06-14T15:09:00.000-04:00

Ouch! He's one tough critic. Really it is one of his favorite books.

Let the Summer fun begin!

2010-06-13T19:52:00.000-04:00

Lion's beach, St. Joseph Michigan

In the wilderness

2010-05-24T21:20:00.000-04:00

"The spiritual life cannot be made suburban. It is always frontier, and we who live in it must accept and even rejoice that it remains untamed."

- Howard Macey

Meditations

2010-05-17T21:23:00.000-04:00

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for life or death]. Prov. 18:21

wondering if this verse holds more truth than just life/death as righteousness/unrighteousness. What if actual life/death (health/sickness) are also in the power of the tongue? What if our praises and positive thinking, our spirit and mind are also part of the physical healing process/

Our God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.

Unto Him be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.

"out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks" Luke 6:45

" a happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit." Prov. 15:13

"a heart at peace gives life to the body." Prov. 14:30

Thought for the day

2010-05-14T21:30:00.000-04:00

One thing God has spoken,

two things have I heard:

that You, O God, are strong,

and that You, O LORD, are loving.

Psalm 62:11-12

A familiar itch

2010-05-10T21:33:00.000-04:00

I have poison ivy again.

So severe that a secondary infection has developed.

lots of steroids, antibiotics, sterile wraps and rest are in the immediate future.

No pictures for this though. Instead I've posted this pretty bunch of unnaturally purple daisies. (really the water was turning purple as the color drained from the petals.) You know it's gotta be a good day with these cheery little faces looking at you!

Special moments

2010-05-02T21:40:00.000-04:00

I'm thanking God for the wonderful gift of children, imagination and laughter.

These are some of my favorite candid moments from Bronwen's party.

Good friends, family bonds. Thank you God for these!

Sweetpea's fifth birthday

2010-05-01T13:26:00.000-04:00

A birthday banner of dancing princesses in beautiful ball gowns,

Some quick tailoring on one of the bride's maid dresses in my closet for a lovely gown in her favorite color,

Some very special friends and family to sing to her,

A beautiful cake with a surprise inside,

And we gave this little princess a birthday ball to remember!

Baby cheeks and fat little fists

2010-04-14T14:46:00.000-04:00

Don't they just make you all swoony?

Happy birthday Bronwen!

2010-04-13T19:43:00.000-04:00

Dearest girl,

you have such a large unquenchable spirit

you live out loud

you're not afraid to be who God made you to be

your robust laughter is contagious, your smile infectious

your little self brings unspeakable joy to my heart

you're fancy and special

sparkly even

I hope you grow in grace and love for the Lord your maker

And so she grows

2010-04-13T13:55:00.000-04:00

Happy birthday sweet Bronwen. I love you with all of my heart!

Oliver's first solid food

2010-04-10T16:58:00.000-04:00

It's not all that solid, but it is different than breast milk. He's a little suspicious of the cereal at first.

Oh yes, he loves it!

When illness comes to a loved one

2010-04-09T02:45:00.000-04:00

God is good. All of the time, God is good.

He works all things together for good.

He makes all things perfect in His time.

On the way to Michigan we received a phone call. My aunt, who has been having trouble recovering from gall bladder surgery last month, was told two days ago that she has pancreatic cancer.

Many thoughts come to mind, and I struggle to trust in the LORD and be thankful, all the while knowing full well that this cancer is a death sentence. But maybe the tests were wrong.

This doesn't seem real. How is this happening?

But mostly I'm just numb.

Curious kids

2010-04-09T02:43:00.000-04:00

End of winter term and the kids are on Spring break!

Josh and I took them to St. Joseph to the Curious Kids Museum

This hands-on museum makes learning come alive.

Bronwen discovered a love for dinosaurs. She had a hard time prying her self from this table to go see the other displays.

Noah is looking at some kind of bug slides I think

Checking out different career options

Noah whips up a medieval meal for everyone.

And we finished up with some face art.

Because I love her face

2010-04-06T15:32:00.000-04:00

Our Passover Seder

2010-04-05T14:03:00.000-04:00

This year Passover and Easter occur in the same week. While we no longer celebrate Easter as our spiritual holy day, we are sensitive to our family and friends and we do enjoy the traditional tastes and fellowship of Easter.

We opened our home to a small group of family and close friends for the Passover Seder.

It was a very special time of celebration, worship and remembrance.

All that glitters is not gold

2010-04-05T14:01:00.000-04:00

sometimes it's purple!

purple glitter toe nails.

Matzah ball soup

2010-04-03T14:40:00.000-04:00

Makes 8 to 12 matzo balls

Matzo Balls
1/2 cup matzo meal
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons reserved chicken fat or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chicken stock or seltzer (which both of our mothers swear by for making the balls extra light)

For soup
2 to 3 quarts prepared chicken stock (recipe above)
1 carrot, thinly sliced
A few sprigs of dill

Mix all matzo ball ingredients in a bowl. Cover and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Bring 1 1/2 quarts of well-salted water to a brisk boil in a medium sized pot.

Reduce the flame. Run your hands under water so they are thoroughly wet. Form matzo balls by dropping spoonfuls of matzo ball batter approximately 1-inch in diameter into the palm of your wet hands and rolling them loosely into balls. Drop them into the simmering salt water one at a time. Cover the pot and cook them for 30 to 40 minutes.

About ten minutes before the matzo balls are ready, bring prepared chicken stock to a simmer with the sliced carrot in it. Ladle some soup and a couple matzo balls into each bowl and top with a couple snips of dill. Eat immediately.

Recipe courtesy of Smitten Kitchen

Sweet dreams

2010-04-02T18:30:00.000-04:00

Annabelle's last sleep in her crib

baby brother

2010-03-30T13:19:00.000-04:00

Enjoying so many things these days.

*sigh* chubby baby hands

In profile, he looks a lot like big brother at this age.

But he's very much his own little self.

Growing up

2010-03-28T17:22:00.000-04:00

I told Bronwen today that we should just skip over her birthday this year (which is in two weeks) because I'm not ready for her to be five. She said, "Mama, I'll always be your daughter and you'll always be my mama even when I'm grown up. I promise that it'll take me a long time to grow up. But trust me though, when I turn five, I'll be a little bigger . . . but not much."

Oh my sweet girl, if only it were as sure as simply making a promise to take a long time to grow up.

presents for Annabelle

2010-03-24T16:00:00.000-04:00

After her morning breakfast of pancakes with ice cream, Annabelle prepared to open her gifts.

"What in the world?"
"Oh! It's a bow!"

Still on the petite side of the scale, Annabelle is barely bigger than the gift bag!

Badly needed hair accessories. When I try to sweep her hair back with my hand, she'll put her head forward, allowing the hair to fall back and say, "Mom, I like my hair that way."

A pretty dress from Daddy

Now, what do we have here?
These instructions are a bit difficult to understand.

Oh well, I'll just smile and hold it like this.

(Actually she was quite excited to have this little house.)

Close your eyes Annabelle!

You have to keep them closed . . .
No peaking!
Tah-dah!

Every bit Annabelle

2010-03-24T06:02:00.000-04:00

These are some of the things I hear from my little Belle:

Me: You didn't take a very long nap.

A: Yes I did! It was 3 snaps long.

Some days she lets her yiddish slip:

"Mama, your baby is schlucking his schlumb!"

One morning both girls were supposed to breakfast on their unfinished meal from the night before:

Me: girls, you don't have to finish your supper for breakfast. . . I'm going to give you grace this morning

A: okay! I'll have mine right here (pointing to the tray on her high chair).

Other times you can hear her say, "Can I enjoy you?" Which means she wants to join you in what you're doing or where you're sitting.

Recently she told me she's going over two to three.

Well little one, today is your birthday . . . you went over to three!

I don't know how it happened. It seems like you were just a little baby in my arms yesterday.

But you've made our lives so much richer and filled our home with much more laughter.

I love you!

Exploring 101

2010-03-23T11:37:00.000-04:00

* make use of one giant pink pony for comfie support

* keep one toy in hand while rummaging through toy filled basket with the other

* kick off slippers for extra traction

Semi Annual Event

2010-03-22T11:29:00.000-04:00

The switching of the wardrobe. Dreadful chore. Can I get a witness?

The girls went straight for the swimwear. . . even though its only 50 some degrees outside.

Noah wistfully day dreams of the warm days to come. Is he in shorts already too?

It's funny, we get out the warm-weather clothes as soon as possible and put them away as late as possible.

Ahhh Spring!

A special party

2010-03-21T11:04:00.000-04:00

Like most children, Annabelle loves books. Her favorite book right now is Olivia and the Missing Toy. I must read it a dozen times a day to her. She has it memorized and can often be found "reading" it to her babies.

She doesn't have too many of her own books though. So we decided to have a book themed party for her this year. Specifically, but not limited to Olivia.

I made these invitations based on the art work from this, her favorite book:

Her cake is three stacked books, in her favorite colors of pink and purple.

Chocolate, Strawberry and Vanilla, the layers.

In case it's difficult to read from the picture, her full name is written on the spine of each book: Annabelle Ceridwyn Martin

Special gifts included a book bag and a doll house-shaped book shelf and many wonderful books that she will enjoy for a very long time.

At the end of the day, Annabelle was one happy little girl. In three days, my baby will be three!

Spring is here

2010-03-20T10:48:00.000-04:00

It is the first day of spring and I have been:

enjoying this gentle breeze all day

readying up the house for company tomorrow to celebrate a special little girl's 3rd birthday

thinking of Granma who went to be with Jesus 19 years ago today

(can it really be 19 years ago?)

loving the simple sweetness of life

Shorn

2010-03-16T11:13:00.000-04:00

Top 10 reasons every woman should take it all off and start again:

10. it takes so little shampoo and really no conditioner when it's only half an inch long. It also makes for very short showers!

9. hair dries in about 30 seconds with the hair dryer so you're ready in a flash

8. you can't mess it up

7. you'll love how it feels when you run your hand through it - so soft

6. your kids or your honey will love how soft it is too

5. it helps you realize who you are and how much you hide behind your hair

4. it's a great thing to do for the health of your hair

3. you'll have fun coming up with silly comments when asked "why did you do that?!"

2. you get to see what shape your head is (hmm, I guess a tight bun would take care of this one.)

and the number one reason:

1. it will help you understand your hair pattern, your hair's pros, cons and how it grows

I never knew that my hair grows forward toward the middle. Each of my kids had this pattern as they grew from their newborn baby down hair to their more mature locks, and I kept wondering where they got it? Must be from Josh's side. And I would examine his head when I cut his hair. They also have double cowlicks in the back of their heads. Every one of them. Where in the world did they get those?! Or the nasty one up in front where the girls could have had bangs but for that half swirl. Yep. From me. Never knew that until recently.

It goes very easily into the new hot faux -hawk style!

And now the real reason for my shearing.

Nope.

I think I'll keep you guessing.

It's only hair. It'll grow back!

Ode to A Mexican Potato

2010-03-09T13:13:00.000-05:00

A friend introduced me to this delicious

delectable

delightful

vegetable. a crunchy juicy tuber.

think water chestnut, raw potato or asian pear. it has a crisp sweet taste.

I'm in love.

Best of all, I am not allergic to it.

Jicama, where have you been all of my life?

To prepare: Peel and cut into sticks and serve with dips or add to salads.

To store: keep in a cool, dry place. Refrigerate after peeling but not before. They don't like the cold.

photo courtesy of What I'm Eating Now

do's and don'ts:

do go get you one.

don't pronounce it wrong. Hi-ka-ma.

do only eat the root.

don't eat the rest of the plant - it's poisonous.

I apologize to all of you savvy vegetable growers/buyers/eaters, for going on and on about a plant you already know all about. You're saying, "isn't she cute, she just found out about Jicama." Thank you for your patience as I prattle on and on.

Hopefully there is someone out there I can share my enthusiasm with. I love finding new favorite foods.

Thank you Elizabeth!

Frozen fog

2010-03-05T10:59:00.000-05:00

there was a heavy blanket of fog covering everything this morning. it was frozen on the branches and made everything look a little magical.

With the promise of spring

2010-03-04T10:54:00.000-05:00

Campanula, dressed in my favorite hue, brightens my kitchen table.

A little gray

2010-03-04T10:35:00.000-05:00

Even though it's a clear, sunshiny, glorious winter day, it feels a little gray because Jayme is heading back to Boston today. But oh! what a wonderful extended time we enjoyed with her.

I'm sure her sweet husband has missed her terribly. That's how it is when you're not with her. Thank you so much Scott for sharing her with us.

Playing small

2010-03-03T10:44:00.000-05:00

Something inside a girl attracts her to the tiniest things. As I am still a girl, I understand this and can get completely swept away when playing with my girls.

How to make green eggs and ham sandwiches

2010-03-03T00:47:00.000-05:00

Oh look! a double yoke . . . how lucky.

I used about five eggs for each batch. whisk together in a bowl.

Add a smidgen of blue food coloring and cream and whisk again.
Yellow and blue make green.

Don't use too much coloring or you'll end up with a bluish egg instead of green. You can correct this by adding more eggs - if you need that much mixture. It's better to be really careful with the blue.

lightly grease the skillet to prevent the egg from sticking. pour the liquid egg mixture into the hot skillet and cook for a couple of minutes lifting the edges to allow some of the more liquid egg to get under and cook. When there's just a little wetness on top, gently and carefully flip the egg pancake over to finish cooking.

Ease cooked, green egg pancake onto a plate.

Cut into circles (or really any shape) with a cookie cutter.

Lightly spread bread with mayonnaise. Layer shaved ham and egg circles and top with another slice of yummy bread. I didn't salt the egg, since the ham tends to be salty, but you could add salt if you wanted.

Use this same method of coloring the eggs to make scrambled eggs, but instead of letting a huge pancake cook in the pan, use a spatula to scramble the egg as it cooks. I also add a dollop of sour cream to the eggs for a richer taste when I'm scrambling them. You could use cream cheese too. Just make sure to melt it a little so it mixes more easily.

A backward sort of day, in which I am finally caught up, by the way

2010-03-03T00:19:00.000-05:00

The sunshine was so beautiful this morning as we broke our fast with dinner! There's silliness afoot as we celebrate Dr. Seuss' 106th birthday, so we are doing things backwards.

Mmmmmm! Grilled cheese sandwiches and steamy tomato soup.

After morning lessons we had a couple of friends over for lunch: green eggs and ham sandwiches and popcorn.

Read lots of silly rhyming books written by, who else? Dr. Seuss!

We wore our clothes backward. Even Oliver wore his overalls the wrong way around.

Made and borrowed silly hats. Just for fun.

Gave backward hugs. times five.

And just had loads of fun.

After our friends went home, little ones went down for naps, big ones finished afternoon lessons and Aunt Jayme made the dessert - monkey bread!

By the time he got home from work, Josh had missed all of the fun. So we finished the day with breakfast. And of course, it was green eggs and ham.

Whew! what a day. I'm slightly exhausted.

Belle

2010-03-02T23:45:00.000-05:00

March 1She doesn't know how perfect she is.

Or does she?

Friendship maketh a heart merry

2010-03-02T23:44:00.000-05:00

Feb. 28Mandi and I go way back to elementary school. She was in my brother's class. Our families were very close and spent alot of time together growing up. We probably know things about each other that we could use for black mail. If we were so inclined.

She has an incredible spirit no matter what she has had to face. She's incredibly beautiful, but she'll probably kill me for posting her picture.

I met Melissa when she came home from the mission field. We were 16 and became fast friends. We were in each others' weddings. Isn't she beautiful? She is - inside and out. Especially her smile.

I love these women.

I don't get nearly enough time with them.

But, we make every moment count.

Daydreaming

2010-03-02T22:39:00.000-05:00

Feb. 27Dream away little one! Just don't grow up too quickly.

Baby hands

2010-03-02T22:21:00.000-05:00

Feb. 25*Sigh*

The brownest eyes

2010-03-02T21:39:00.000-05:00

Feb. 24Soulful.

So full of love. compassion. kindness. trust.

Bright and brimming with potential.

You my young warrior have what it takes.

You are my hero.

Truly.

The hope of eternal life

2010-03-02T21:15:00.000-05:00

Feb. 22

God the Father knew you and chose you long ago, and his Spirit has made you holy. As a result, you have obeyed him and have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ.

May God give you more and more grace and peace.

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see.

So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.

You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.

This salvation was something even the prophets wanted to know more about when they prophesied about this gracious salvation prepared for you. They wondered what time or situation the Spirit of Christ within them was talking about when he told them in advance about Christ’s suffering and his great glory afterward.

They were told that their messages were not for themselves, but for you. And now this Good News has been announced to you by those who preached in the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. It is all so wonderful that even the angels are eagerly watching these things happen.

I Peter 1:2-12 NLT

Baby Dedication

2010-03-02T21:14:00.000-05:00

Feb. 21Presented to the LORD in dedication.

Just a dusting

2010-03-01T23:02:00.001-05:00

Feb. 19I would not normally show you my dusty piano, but I discovered a snowflake design on the wood from a paper cut out that had been resting there a little too long.

Quiet moments: coloring

2010-03-01T22:59:00.001-05:00

Feb. 19

I love moments like this.

I cannot help myself

2010-03-01T22:51:00.001-05:00

Feb. 17I swoon!

Those cheeks.

That little rose bud mouth.
His expressive eyes. *sigh*

He sits by himself now. For just a short while.

Another first (oh, and another!)

2010-03-01T22:42:00.001-05:00

Feb. 16Oliver is sitting well enough to try out the wooden high chair. He is strapped in really well because, like a weeble wobble, he tends to teeter. He can almost sit by himself on the floor.

Anyway, he thinks it's pretty cool.

He suddenly looks so wise.

"Yeah, I'm sitting in a chair . . . for about three minutes now."

Oh! And after several painful nights, too many really, he finally cut his first tooth on Valentine's day. That's really what the maturity is all about. That and the chair.

Breakfast on valentine's day

2010-03-01T22:26:00.000-05:00

Feb. 14

1. make sure to spray the skillet and the cookie cutter shapes well.

2. the temperature needs to be set high so the egg doesn't seep through like the one on top, but stays within the boundaries of the cookie cutter like the lower heart. After a few seconds you should turn down the heat so the eggs don't burn.

3. after two minutes or so, flip the whole thing over with a spatula and cook for another minute or so.
4. gently release the eggs from the cookie cutter forms.

I also cut shapes into the bread and then toasted for extra yumminess.

My valentines

2010-03-01T22:21:00.000-05:00

Feb. 13Josh took the crew to one of the home improvement stores this morning where they were holding a workshop for the kids. They each made a jewelry stand for me.

Then they wore the aprons and fixed things around the house for the rest of the day.

A Merry heart

2010-03-01T22:12:00.000-05:00

Feb. 11We had a few friends over to chase away the winter blahs and celebrate a day of love!

kickin' back and relaxin'

2010-03-01T22:10:00.000-05:00

Feb. 10What I wouldn't do for an adult sized Boppy!

I'm just sayin'.

peas in a pod

2010-03-01T22:02:00.000-05:00

Jan. 30I'm absolutely crazy about these two.

Sunshine on a winter's day

2010-03-01T15:38:00.000-05:00

Jan. 29

This little man, Father Christmas, stood in our front hallway - our newest addition to Christmas decor, and a special gift from my sweet Jayme - welcoming guests to our new home.

I love his happy, twinkling face.

Annabelle was quite taken with him too and could often be found talking with him, sharing little secrets with the "little grandpa".

Now it is time to carefully pack him away for next year.

Saturday afternoon project: a play skirt

2010-02-26T17:18:00.000-05:00

Jan 23I've had this idea rolling around in my mind for awhile now and found the perfect fabric with which to experiment. My girls love to wear dresses every day, and tend to want to wear their better "Sunday" dresses. They don't have nearly enough skirts.

This shirt was on it's way to the thrift store when I saved it for a new purpose.

Nearly any shirt will do for this project. I chose a simple cotton with a geometric design which I thought would hide sewing mistakes pretty well.

1. cut the top of the shirt, just under the arms for the longest skirt length. This one had a pocket which I removed because for one it was in the wrong place for a skirt and I also have other plans for it.
2. button up and stitch it down. I thought the buttons would be cute, but you could also make a seem leaving the buttons out.

3. create a hem at the bottom. If it's a tailored shirt, you may have to remove some extra material at the bottom so you can make a nice hem.

4. a simple waist band. I cut the finished edge off of each sleeve, making sure to leave enough extra fabric to work with. Sew one set of ends together and after measuring your little one's waist, leave enough extra for a snap or hook and eye, or if you're really good, button and hole.

I am not really good, so I will do a snap.

5. run a loose stitch around the top of the skirt and pulled the ends to gather the fabric.

6. face the right sides of the waist band and the skirt together, rough ends together and stitch.

If you look closely, I missed some fabric in the gather to the left of the hanger.

If I could have found my snaps I would have included sewing the snap in the instructions, but I could not, so I did not. But don't forget that step or you'll have to pin the waist band together like I had to because the new owner was too excited to wait to wear her new skirt while I dug through my sewing boxes. Note to self: make sure you have all of your materials before you begin the afternoon project.

Looking closely at this picture you will also see that my stitches are atrocious near the button flap, but the nice thing about this fabric was that the large plaid design looks alot like stitches and kind of camouflages my sloppiness.

Also, I did not iron the skirt but that would have made the end product look much nicer.

The best part was seeing her face as she looked at me with admiration. I guess it's been awhile since the sewing machine was out.

Have fun! I'm going to be on the prowl for more discarded shirts!

When it's too cold outside

2010-02-26T17:09:00.000-05:00

Jan 23We enjoyed a very sweet Saturday indoors.

I unrolled a long piece of paper down the middle of the table and put out the paints and brushes. The artists could reach the paper from almost any angle and had loads of fun mixing colors and creating.

Winter thankfulness

2010-02-26T16:31:00.000-05:00

Jan 8 -16When it's this cold for this long, and the days are more gray than sunny, I have to really look to find things to be thankful for. I am really thankful for this little gal with her sparkling blue eyes and dimpled smile.

I am thankful for the coat and snow pants she wears, passed down from a friend.

I am thankful for the good relationship my kids have with each other.

When I was pregnant with Noah, I hoped and prayed for a boy. I wanted a big brother for my future children. I am thankful that he is the big brother that I hoped for.

I am thankful for our new big yard that will big the backdrop for many hours of play and exploration.
I am thankful for the warm house I sit in so I can be thankful for the snow in which they play.

Big day

2010-02-26T16:29:00.000-05:00

Jan 8This was Oliver's first time in the play center.

He feels really big and important here and keeps very busy.

He seems to know it's his special place to be when the kids are busy with their schooling.

Fun with static electricity

2010-02-26T16:08:00.000-05:00

Dec. 31It's a little dry around here.

Of course the wonder of the micro-fiber couch is only limited to it's inability to stain.

For all else, it is a pain!

New Year's Eve Eve

2010-02-26T15:54:00.000-05:00

Dec. 30

Jayme and Scott are home for Christmas and then some! What a happy reunion.

We enjoyed a sleep over celebration for New Year's.

Oliver getting to know Uncle Scott. Before this visit, Scott had not met Oliver outside the womb. I had traveled to Boston in the Spring when I was about 7 months pregnant.

Hmm, I don't think I ever finished the post of that trip.

Lots of wrestling
Lots of dancing
and dancing . . .
Oh, there was much more dancing too.

Fetch

2010-02-26T15:52:00.001-05:00

Dec. 28Cooper brings his toy to Oliver . . . drops it near his hand . . . and waits, muscles twitching for Oliver to throw it for him.

It's going to be a long wait for ya, boy.

Christmas morning in our home

2010-02-26T15:31:00.000-05:00

Dec. 25

Hope you had a beautiful Christmas filled with family and friends.

A dog and his boy

2010-02-26T15:25:00.000-05:00

Dec. 16

They've been best friends since Oliver was born this summer.

Cooper adores him.

It's hard to believe that as soon as Oliver is mobile, Cooper will steer clear, run and hide and growl in protest of the same little fingers that he once allowed to poke and pull.

It's happened with each of the others, so that is what I'm expecting. But just look at that face.

Those faces.

It's hard to believe it could happen.

And so I hope that this time will be different.

Head to head

2010-02-16T00:50:00.000-05:00

Dec. 14

Whilst practicing with the lighting and focus on my newish lens, it seems I interrupted a tete-a-tete between these three friends.

Oliver: "Hi Butterfly. Hi Piglet."

Piglet: "Hi Oliver! How are you?"

Oliver: "I really don't like tummy time. You're looking really pretty Butterfly."

Butterfly just smiles. She's a little shy.

Oliver: "Ugh. Mama . . . a little help please . . . can't . . . lift . . . my . . . head . . . anymore . . ."

"Piglet?"
Oliver: "Is she still there piglet? She has the camera doesn't she."

Piglet: " You're doing great Oliver. You can do it!"

Community Christmas Concert

2010-02-16T00:13:00.000-05:00

Dec. 13

The music this year was very challenging, but he did it and really enjoyed it.

Especially Silent Night in German.

Three happy cousins. very musical. very special.

I love the sound of Christmas carols sung by children.

Lit

2010-02-16T00:09:00.000-05:00

Dec. 11In the midst of so much change this year, there is just something calming and peaceful about the same old ornaments on our tree.

As smooth as a baby's . . .

2010-02-15T23:55:00.000-05:00

Dec. 10
I found this helpful chart here and it may be subject to copyright.

After nearly thirteen years, my dearest shaved his Van Dyke. Then he lets just a little grow back (just enough to get my hopes up) and then shaves it again. It's really taking me awhile to get used to this new look!

How do you prefer your man's face?

Natural light

2010-02-15T23:49:00.000-05:00

Nov. 30

I love how it plays across his face.

We find our Christmas tree

2010-02-15T23:42:00.000-05:00

Nov. 29

Oliver at 4 months

2010-02-15T23:40:00.000-05:00

Nov. 17

Veterans' Day

2010-02-15T23:26:00.000-05:00

Nov. 11

The funeral home that handled my grandpa's burial last Fall had a beautiful memorial service for the veterans tonight. The families were welcomed with a small reception. A few of them had lost loved ones recently in the line of duty. My grandpa served in the army over seas during WWI and my grandma served in the Navy in the States while she waited for him to come home.