A Steadfast Life

February 5-11

2012-02-12T16:16:00.000-06:00

My favorite of all the snow pictures . . . and I saved it just for the weekly round-up. ;o)

Owen BEGS to peel potatoes, so after I got done with supper prep I gave him the peeler and one potato. It keeps him busy for a very long time. (On and unrelated note, can anybody tell me how I managed to make that yellow-ish circle thing in my photo? I took several pictures--all with a window to the right, afternoon sun--and they all have some version of yellow blob in it).

Circus practice time, directly following showers/baths

A slow picture day . . . I broke into the emergency stash of mac n' cheese because we were dreadfully low on groceries after being gone all weekend (and having no violin lessons this week). I thought I might note that three boxes feeds five children. All of the sudden it seems ALL of them have experienced a growth in appetite. Some nights a 9x13 of whatever can barely feed the whole gang! I sense scary amounts of food consumption ahead . . .

The kids have been putting on plays. I have no idea where they come up with this stuff. The first one was "George and Rosie get the Turkey." George was played by Jackson, Rosie by Isabella, the Turkey by Emmett. Owen was probably the turkey's apprentice. Marissa was the director, soundtrack, special effects and narrator. This picture is of "George and Rosie at the Beach." A similar idea except the youngest brothers were sharks. And that duck hanging from a stick? Why a seagull of course! I must say it was NOT a relaxing beach vacation . . . surprised by sharks, pooped on by a seagull, and bit by a crab--oh my! ;o)

I know, I know another sunset, but I loved those streams of light. ;o)

Baked Potato Soup (recipe here) and some homemade oatmeal yeast rolls for supper--so yummy on a rather chilly February day.

The Girls' Room

2012-02-11T15:33:00.000-06:00

In honor of the room purge the girls and I did these these last two days and the fact I never got around to posting any pictures after we moved in I thought I'd do a tiny little tour of the space they call home. ;o) If I'm being honest, I still have loose ends to tie up all over the place--lots of small projects that haven't met their completion. But if I wait until the room is "done" I will never post any pictures. What I do have--

~A bright blue paint that was a rushed decision at Walmart . . . The girls like it and it works fine with the colors but if I did it again (which I won't since we rent) I'd probably choose something a tad softer.

~The beginnings of an embroidery hoop fabric collection. I kind of like how it looks like big polka dots on the wall, I'm planning on doing some more to fill up that space a bit better.

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~The bunk bed with the $30 bedspreads I found at a store in Omaha that is like TJ Maxx but I can't remember the name.

~The fun pennant banner I was working on last summer

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~A cozy little corner to stick the desk that was supposed to be mine but I had no room for in my room and the girls desperately wanted some sort of desk. It works great. The chair was a garage sale find a long time ago, and although the picture doesn't show it is literally falling to pieces. I'll need to find something else shortly.

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~Curtain-less window . . . I took down the awful old green "weave" that was up there and then have done nothing. We'll probably just stick some blinds on the window. I'd love to do a floor length yellow damask panel, but that wouldn't work here because that is the only wall to fit the dresser (and we wouldn't be able to close the panels). I thought of making them shorter, but then I don't want to put the effort into sewing something for here that most likely won't work in another house.

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~Wall with the closet and other bookshelf. Most of the "kid book" collection resides in the girls' room because there is no room elsewhere for it.

And there you have it! A fairly simple "cottagey/vintagey" girls room that my girls are quite fond of--it's a happy and cheerful little place. And also for the moment, CLEAN. ;o)

A Glimpse Inside

2012-02-09T18:38:00.001-06:00

Some random ponderings lately . . .

--When I'm back in Lincoln it feels like home. When I'm here it's fine and all, but going back has the feeling of belonging. When we head back to visit I can't wait to get there. When I'm going about my Lincoln errands I love how I don't have to think, how I know where to go, the fastest way to get there. I love the familiarity and how it just feels right. When we leave I am sad. It has made me think about living on this earth and how as a Christian my true home is in Heaven. Do I long for Heaven the way I long for Lincoln . . . ? Do I feel a bit out of place on earth because I don't really belong here? Or do I love my earthen life a bit too much?

--I'm reading a historical fiction retelling of Martha Washington's life (link). She frequently comments of George's self-control, that he was a "master of himself" in a way that he was never given to excess. What a high compliment to come from one's spouse! George Washington as a whole is quite a fascinating man, somebody who didn't quite ever want the duties thrust upon him but took them up because it was in the best course of action for a new country.

--Similarly, I've been thinking about 1 Timothy 4:8 "for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things . . ." There are days I don't want to run, but I make myself do it (usually . . .) and I'm always so happy (when I'm finished of course!) to have disciplined myself to get the job done. Sometimes I think it is so much easier to discipline ourselves to accomplish things on the outside, while inwardly, those disciplines that are profitable for ALL things are such a daily battle. Why do I struggle so much when it comes to being more patient with my kids, speaking words that are edifying? Why can't I set my mind to accomplishing those goals in the same way I set my mind to getting a run in?

--Finally "getting" the whole concept of the importance of recognizing the gospel's importance in our day-to-day lives. It's not just something that saves us once, but gives us the power daily to "stop it." Whatever sin we know we keep committing we can stop because of the gospel--every day is a good day for repentance. I never quite understood what it meant to "preach the gospel to myself daily" but kind of had a light bulb moment this past weekend.

--Lately, I've been able to write several "answereds" in my little prayer journal. Even though God is sovereign and will do what He intends to do, what an incredible blessing prayer is and the fact He lets me experience the joy of feeling I had a small part in the answer.

Snow Pics

2012-02-06T19:34:00.000-06:00

Josh was out helping his dad scoop snow in shorts when I got home from the women's retreat. It wasn't extremely cold, but I wouldn't call it shorts weather either . . . and look at him all chivalrous carrying my suitcase!

In-laws' front porch

I think it's a junco--but don't quote me on that. ;o)

A bundled up Emmett

Morning light across their front yard

A tree tunnel

The long drive

A tree (but you probably figured that one out). ;o) Loved the contrast against the bright blue sky.

January 29-February 4

2012-02-05T20:15:00.000-06:00

The "boy table" at Taco Bell. There was a slight argument as to who got to sit by Grandpa . . . finally decided by the fact Emmett got to sit next to him at church, therefore, Jackson and Owen would share him for lunch.

Another wacky day of January weather . . . picnic blanket, bare feet, a book to read in the sunshine, sure, why not?

I suppose when you hear "girl sleepover" you might think painting nails and doing hair. Not these girls. ;o) They spent the majority of the afternoon in the trees. My girls were quite sad to have their friends leave, according to Marissa, life suddenly felt very boring.

I was amused to find Owen hunkered down behind a chair flipping through some world history. His pants-less-ness was cleverly cropped out . . .

One of those times when Josh asks me "What are you taking a picture of?" ;o)

I saw this cool building in Minden (where we left Josh's vehicle and I picked him up after discovering school and the wrestling meet were cancelled and he determined he wanted to skip town with me). I LOVED the moss growing on the shingled sides--kind of cool! ;o)

The only picture I happened to take that day . . . Owen playing with his "cutie" like they were two bumper cars. The lighting is horrible, but hey, at least I haven't missed a day. ;o)

Josh's parents backyard Saturday afternoon! A gorgeous (and wet and heavy and deep!) snow. Arapahoe had nowhere near this amount. It is amazing to think that at the beginning of the week we were out with no shoes and no coats! That's kind of what I love about Nebraska. ;o)

January's End

2012-01-31T19:41:00.002-06:00

Running . . . 37 miles! Signing up for the half marathon made me a wee bit nervous as it is winter and I have no treadmill. January was more than agreeable! My goal was to get out five days a week for two mile runs. I didn't completely do that--I averaged four days a week. I realize a hardcore runner could probably log that in a week or two, however, it is the most I've done (and most consistent) I've been since high school. Baby steps. ;o)

Reading . . . 8 books! My favorites were Hannah Coulter by Wendell Berry and Though Waters Roar by Lynn Austin.

Listening . . . We discovered David Garrett (watch this, or this, or this). We "youtubed" him almost daily, loving not only his classical pieces, but also some of the modern pieces he has put a little "violin spin" on. I investigated seeing him in concert this year only to find the closest he would be to us would be Chicago . . . just this past weekend. Maybe next year . . . And as far as my girls go, I've been enjoying Marissa playing Dvorak's "Humoresque" and Isabella playing Schumann's "The Two Grenadiers." I'm not going to lie, Suzuki-styled violin has been a major investment of my time as I have to practice with them daily, but it's so exciting to really see/hear some musical growth in each girl lately.

Watching . . . I'm not a big tv watcher, but Josh and I do enjoy getting caught up on previous seasons of "White Collar." And I must admit to developing a fondness for "Bones" (also previous seasons, we only have Netflix for tv, no cable/satellite/antennae). I usually wait until Josh has watched the first five or so minutes so I don't have to endure the whole "shock factor" of finding the body. Blech. But the solving of the crime is always interesting, and I really like the main character Temperance (cool name).

Entertaining . . . not only did we have the pleasure of Josh's parents coming out this past weekend, it also just so happened that some friends of the girls had a daddy doing business in the McCook area. He dropped them off this morning and we're having a sleepover tonight. It is so fun to have visitors!!! The kids spent nearly the entire afternoon outside--what amazing January weather!!

Around the house . . . I packed up the Christmas tree and promptly rearranged the living room. I'm liking the new set up so much more! (Old set up here--scroll down for a more complete picture) I also FINALLY got my books unpacked! Josh built me a matching shelf (to the one we built a few years back) and I painted it black. They each flank the big living room window. I also organized my craft area in the basement, and hung one wall of pictures. In the end, lots of little projects got done, and I'm happy with what I accomplished.

New Set-up:

That blank wall over the other shelf is where the next grouping of pictures is going. I switched the piano and tv (and by "I" we all know that means "Josh under coercion"), and then moved the small hutch to sit diagonally in the corner between the piano and tv.

Onward to February and the end of wrestling season!! ;o)

January 22-28

2012-01-28T15:15:00.000-06:00

My driver.

I had Marissa take him out to the van, and a few minutes later, when I followed and opened up the passenger door, there he was in the driver's seat, wearing Potato Head glasses, and asking, "Are you ready Mommy?"
~

Owen insisting upon making his own peanut butter and jelly.

A good mail week overall, beginning with my Snapfish order of 454 4x6's (yay for penny prints!!). I had to make a purchase of $10 to get this deal, so I ordered a few 8x10's and 5x7's. Shipping was kind of expensive, but it all ended up to a really good deal. These are ALL of 2011's pictures (at least all the ones I wanted printed out) and I'm hoping to get them into an album . . . step one of getting caught up on photos!! My albums for last year and this year arrived in the mail also. I'm just waiting for Amazon to restock the photo pages and I'll be all set.

An accurate depiction of life right now

. I was thinking that there are probably not that many more evenings of "rub a dub dub three boys in a tub" left. One of these days Jackson is going to decide he's ready for a less crowded bathing experience. One of these days my floor won't get flooded on a near-nightly basis . . .

FINALLY! After years of loving gallery walls I took the plunge and began my own. Yes, I know there are tried and true methods for doing this, all of which I ignored and just "eye-balled" the whole thing (so if you think the spacing isn't quite right, you are probably correct). ;o) But I'm happy with the results and excited to do another collection on the other side of the window.

A little boy sitting in the shadows on my table reading a seed catalogue--what's not to love? ;o)

Josh doing his coaching thing.

Josh's parents arrived in town the day before (yay, company!!) and we all enjoyed watching the wrestlers (and coach) ;o) in action. The older four went back to the tournament with Grandpa and Grandma and I spent the afternoon home with a little boy who was SUPPOSED to be sleeping. Oh, is he wired today!! I'm certain he'll crash just as we're ready to head out for supper tonight--such is life. ;o)

Valentine's Day Favorites

2012-01-25T07:24:00.000-06:00

A few ideas from the "ghosts of Valentine's past" . . .

*sigh*

Look at the cute little Rissy and Bella with their little red bows still trying to hide the shorn-off bangs.

I believe we made these for Cubbies treats that evening and they were so fun--just use some food coloring to dye the marshmallow mixture before you dump in the Rice Krispies, cut out with a heart cookie cutter, and use some a red gel frosting tube to spell out some cute sayings.

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Another tasty and pretty treat--we used pretzel "checkerboards" as our base and then a bag of "Hugs" and a bag of Valentine M&M's, melt in the oven (can't remember the heat, but not a high heat oven and not for too long, just watch them, but I do believe no longer than 10 minutes). I love the little stripes! ;o)

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A Valentine mailbox making party! The girls have been requesting doing this again this year. I'm hoping to get organized shortly so that we can set up a "mail system" in our home for the first half of February, delivering little love notes to each other all the way leading up to V-Day.

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Of course, a cookie decorating party--not sure there is a holiday we haven't done this for (although we don't hit every holiday every single year!). ;o) My best cookie decorating tips--a cookie recipe that makes a nice crisp cookie (less breakage), gel food coloring for bright/vivid frosting colors, and lots and lots of holiday "sprinkles." We also use plastic Wilton squeeze bottles for piping frosting. In some ways they are easier for kids to use than a piping bag, but you do need to make sure the frosting is just soft enough to be squeezable, but then, not too soft. We have had our share of clogs . . . and "exploding" bottles. If attempting something like this definitely do the baking on one day and the decorating on a separate day--much more doable that way! ;o)

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And then there's the Valentine's Day pinboard where I'm collecting some other ideas--feel free to browse. ;o)

January15-21

2012-01-22T06:18:00.000-06:00

This apron was my grandma's--I never actually saw her wear it or know the story behind it, but I love its "vintagey-ness" (that's a word, right?) ;o) and it makes a great Valentine's decoration.

Rissy and her daddy--after a particularly intense tickle session!

Okay, so I ADORE this picture. He was watching out the window (with his new best friend, stuffed doggie) for Daddy to arrive for lunch. I just LOVE the expression on his little face.

What Emmett brought home from the library this week--he was so delighted with his finds. And me, well, I think I'm going to have to keep my eye on that one . . . ;o)

Where I find Marissa most afternoons, yes, sometimes still in her jammies (oh the life of a homeschooler . . .) writing her latest novel or reading the next "Redwall" book.

The flakiest biscuits I ever made--they literally peeled apart in layers! And they're square because I was pressed for time, so I just quickly "sliced and baked." They went nicely with some homemade chicken noodle soup--YUM!

A little paper heart garland . . . Funny story, when I was in Kearney on Tuesday I tried several different stores but nobody had a big heart punch. I returned home rather dejected since I had these pretty papers but no way to make the hearts. And then a lightbulb went off--while certainly a punch would be slick and easy I DO have scissors! Yes, it did take me a bit more time, but it's not like I spent hours cutting out hearts (maybe just half an hour). It was a fun little craft--I've actually never sewn on paper before!

Snowmen at Night

2012-01-20T19:11:00.000-06:00

A little art project we did today (idea found here).

If you're familiar with this book--

Then maybe you'll recognize the inspiration behind (some . . . ahem) of the drawings.

I tried to have them do some shading like the directions said, to show the side that would be in the shadows, and also have the snowman doing something interesting.

What we ended up with:

Marissa--a snowman sledding down the hill on his belly

Isabella--a snow-woman singing into a microphone with a snow-baseball player who appears to be perhaps dancing?

Jackson--a snowman literally holding a smoking gun after shooting a bear (and he poo-pooed the idea of a moon, he wanted a sun, so not technically a snowman at night . . . ) ;o)

Emmett--his actually started out with some cute little multicolored snowman wielding swords (I swear we don't watch or participate in violent things!!) and then there were a few planes (one which poked a snowman in the bottom . . .) and then this "red lava" came and covered everything up . . . and well after that, it was just layer upon layer of color. He spent a good 1/2 hour longer on his picture than anyone else (not that you can tell by looking . . .).

Owen--he said he was drawing snowmen, so we'll go with that ;o)

All in all a fun and fairly simple project to fill an afternoon that has Daddy gone to a wrestling tournament (but yay he's home tomorrow!).

Profile

2012-01-18T20:11:00.000-06:00

Last week he started singing, "I have the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart . . ."

Today I found him unloading my dishwasher and then he set the cups for everyone at the table for lunch.

He LOVES an audience.

He stayed dry overnight for the first time a few days ago.

He almost always tells me thank-you.

He can eat those "cutie" clementines like they're going out of style (and peel them too!).

He always tells me when there are birds at the feeder.

He doesn't like to be cold.

He is horrendous to go shopping with . . . anywhere . . . he's convinced he should walk and/or push the cart. He expresses his disapproval LOUDLY.

He is my snuggler.

He is well-loved.

My View

2012-01-17T10:19:00.000-06:00

Last night I went to bed about 10:30, and a few minutes later Josh poked his head in the door and said, "Did you know there's snow on the ground?" And sure enough, there was! It's not much, but enough to cover the ground and cause the temperature to PLUMMET this morning. Eyeing the bit of ground cover and a thermometer that read 1.6 degrees I decided to skip the morning run.

And so I watched a brilliantly bright sunrise from the confines of a cozy living room.

As the sun rose higher I noted that moving my couch in front of the window was really doing nothing to help our visibility . . .

Oh, it did open up the living room nicely. But now instead of fingerprints that end at about four feet they go ALL THE WAY UP. ;o)

Pristine or not, it's a lovely view all the same . . . one day the windows will stay clean and I'm quite certain I'll miss those little fingers (and from the looks of things noses and mouths!).

For now, I'll just enjoy my present view.

January 8-14

2012-01-15T17:00:00.003-06:00

Isabella wearing her new coat for the first time . . . got it at Kohl's after Christmas--one for her and one for Marissa--they were 80% off, making them each $15, plus I had $10 in Kohl's cash, making each lovely dress coat a mere $10. I LOVE a deal like that! ;o)

Owen and his beloved penguin hat, regardless of the fact the weather this month has been ridiculously wonderful and hats and even coats have hardly been needed.

The full "wolf" moon, sinking at dawn.

One of those times when I realize I have THREE BOYS--and ones lacking clothing at that. ;o)

My reading binge . . . four down, three to go. I may or may not have taunted Marissa, "I've already read four books this year and how many have you read?" Today she finished her third, so my lead will most likely be short-lived. ;o)

"Best Brownies"

I used to be a "box" girl until this recipe came along, and now I'll never make a box mix again. I think the frosting is where it's at! These are the kind of brownie that require a glass of milk . . . and a bunch of people to help eat them, because if left to your own devices it could get ugly fast. ;o)

(recipe in new church cookbook for those of you that have it)

Saturday was kind of a slow picture day--all I have is some chopped veggies that were the base for my Wisconsin Cheese Soup. I also made some pretzel bread bowls to serve it in--it was a good combination. I've never made big soft pretzel styled bread before--the whole boiling the risen dough lumps was intriguing.

Fun at the Feeder

2012-01-12T13:52:00.001-06:00

Lately, the activity has picked up at our feeder. For the most part we see a lot of finches--I think a variety of house finches, purple finches, and maybe a cassin's finch--all three are kind of similar in look. We also have been visited by gold finches, I was initially thrown off--it looked like a gold finch but wasn't nearly as yellow as the ones I had seen in the summer--but of course the birds would have duller shades in the winter!

(gold finch)

We've also been visited by some agile red squirrels. Even though the feeder isn't specifally for them, they're still quite entertaining to watch. Today we had three--one on the feeder, two on the ground-- apparently the news has spread on the free food!

And I've been trying forever to get a picture of a white-breasted nuthatch that visits more sporadically. However, he's a quick little guy, in and out in moments. Today I managed to catch him mid-flight with a sunflower seed in beak!

(white-breasted nuthatch)

None of these pictures are that great in quality--I'm snapping through a window, and then having to crop in a bit--but it is still fun to have a record of our wildlife visits. The feeder seems to be the busiest between 9-11 a.m, right when we are in the midst of schoolwork. The birds and squirrels are definitely an enjoyable interruption to our work! It has yet to lose its novelty. ;o)

Coffee Filter Wreath

2012-01-09T14:38:00.000-06:00

One of these babies has been on my list of things to do for awhile--

And I must say, they are just as easy and cheap as rumored to be!

My wreath is a 14 inch styrofoam form from Hobby Lobby ($4.99, but I used a 40% off coupon), two packs of "natural" coffee filters ($1.12 each at Walmart), and a bag of floral pins (I think they were $2.49). I found it easiest to work in three rows--inner circle first, then moved the next row about an inch back, and the final row about an inch beyond the middle one--there's no exact science and in the end the filters are fairly forgiving. The floral pins are like long staples, and I pinned two filters per one pin (one for each prong, if that makes sense). You could probably just pin one filter per pin, but then you would need another bag of floral pins. It probably took around an hour to complete the whole thing. I love it's ruffly plushness! I was thinking how fun it would to do that coffee filter tie-dye craft, let them dry, and then do a colorful wreath for a girls room or something. That however, would be a bit more involved. ;o)

January 1-7

2012-01-08T20:38:00.000-06:00

My kids have been on a MAJOR game kick . . . it began with Sorry back in November, there was a brief romp with Clue, then Stratego, then Chess, and then Josh sat down and taught them Monopoly. And now Isabella wants to play it every day . . .

This Lego kit was a Christmas present. First Jackson made the deluxe log cabin and then tore it down to create this model--that opens up so you can see inside. The little Lego guy enjoys sitting at his table eating a leg of chicken (when he's not outside admiring the view of his pond). Nothing like a new Lego kit to keep Jackson occupied for hours. ;o)

For Isabella's special time with me she wanted to sew with the sewing machine. She laid out a "charm pack" I had gotten her a few months ago and I showed her how to piece together a simple quilt top. She has plans on it being a quilt for her dolls.

On Jackson's day he wanted to play Stratego with me. I told him we would be able to do so during the youngest boys' naptime. He had his side all set up by about 10:30 in the morning. And then for good measure added a cheering section of Lego men. It must have worked, because he beat me . . . twice.

That lower number? That was the temperature on the 5th day of January in Nebraska . . . crazy but wonderful!

My afternoon tea . . . a nice robust "Irish Breakfast" lovely way to relax while the older three played outside, the younger two napped, and I read a book. ;o)

A most magnificent sunrise that gave way to a rather overcast day (and light dusting of snow). But WOW!!! what a way to start. ;o)

An Ephiphany of Sorts

2012-01-06T14:21:00.001-06:00

We're half way (and one week!!) through our school year, making us also that far through Jackson's kindergarten year. Jackson has kind of always "marched to his own beat" and that being said, first semester didn't go down exactly how I had hoped. There was more than a fair share of him sitting at the table, arms crossed, angry eyebrows furled, me trying to coax just one little three letter word out of him.

It wasn't pretty.

And I was perplexed. My two girls came into reading easily at the older end of four years old. I was trying not to compare, but Jackson was closing in on six and a half and I was thinking I should see *something* by now. He knew all the sounds, he could even spell some words (if I asked "What does CAT start with?" he could go letter by letter and spell it out), but I could not get him to verbally read them. He enjoyed working with numbers. He was fascinated with keeping score on sports games. He adored maps and memorized the names of places and even drew his own maps. I knew he had a good attention span because he could sit with a Lego kit for HOURS following the directions and putting some cool stuff together. He WAS learning, but he just wasn't reading. I kind of realized it wasn't so much about not being capable of reading, but just having absolutely no interest whatsoever.

And there lay my problem . . . how to make him interested.

The last few months Jackson got into board games, awakening in him a fierce competitiveness--a competitiveness that reminded me of a certain brother of mine, who also happened to be the first boy after two girls. ;o) Over Christmas I was chatting with this brother about how Jackson reminded me of him sometimes. We talked of my brother's utter disinterest in all things scholarly while he attended the little country school two miles from where we grew up--all that changed when he started up in a public school with a classroom of kids to compare himself to. He realized he wasn't up to par and started working hard so he could be grouped in with the kids who were more advanced. It's always been about competing for him.

And so I wondered if that would be the case for Jackson? I needed to find a way to make this reading thing competitive, but we homeschool, so how to do that when he has no actual classmates his own age? In the end I took a piece of paper, handed him a "Bob Book" and told him I would make a mark for every word he read and then I would add them up when he was finished. He was delighted, and suddenly he could read. Oh not perfectly by any means, but he knew what to do, and for the first time there was progress. I wondered aloud if he could read more words tomorrow. And sure enough he could! He asked to try a 2nd book. And each day he wants to read more than he did the day before. He asks to read! *she faints in shock*

This boy, he stretches my brain in so many ways--always a puzzle for me to solve. After several days of my "score-keeping" he is excited to sit down with a little book. His excitement over this new "game" has made Emmett interested and he wants to do the same. Jackson suddenly wants to write words, hanging a sign on his door with words he informed me he knew how to read. I made him his own little books and he has begun copying the stories from the "BOB books." (which he intends to sell for $100 . . .) ;o) It's still early in the process, and by no means is he a fluent reader, but I'm delighted that we finally found some momentum . . . now just to keep it going!!

So my lesson . . . study your children and meet them where they're at. Oh, they are endlessly surprising (and all SO VERY different).

*****
Some reading resources for anyone interested:

Our favorite first readers--

They have five different levels as well as having added some new series with sight words. These are SIMPLE and BASIC but a huge boost to a child learning to read when they can do a whole book all by themselves.

How to make your own little books:

Try this link for inspiration

I basically just use printer paper, folded in half and then sliced in half to form the pages, construction paper for the cover, punch two holes in the in the crease and thread some embroidery floss through and tie it all together. They're pretty simple, but you could make them pretty if you used neat scrapbooking paper. They could be a fun gift for a birthday party . . . throw in some colored pencils and some sticker sheets and you have a little author kit already to go. ;o)

Idea for a writing center--easy and accessible to create to their heart's content.

I'm debating some rearranging in the boys' room--maybe moving the train table to the basement and moving in a table for writing/drawing/creating. What I wouldn't give for a fourth bedroom. . .

Plans and Projects

2012-01-03T07:23:00.000-06:00

I have a soft spot for fresh starts . . . I love a brand new year, get giddy at the start of a school year, perhaps because it's always an opportunity to try again, to do better. I'm always planning and dreaming, always aware that if you "aim at nothing, you'll hit it every time." Or something like that.

So towards a new year. . .

Running--

because at the ~~coercion~~ suggestion of a friend I did it . . . officially signed up for Lincoln's half marathon. *gulp* It's really the only reason I found myself pounding gravel at the brink of sunrise, my face utterly numb and devoid of feeling . . . And really I DO like running, I just think I prefer the temp to not be any lower than 28 (ish) degrees. Fifteen degrees=cold

Snapping--

with the camera, trying a "project 365" (ahem, 366, this year) Should that fail, I did discover a simple form of scrapbooking, kind of a hybrid between a plain photo album and a scrapbook. I have been planning (for ummmm several years now) to get into the whole digital scrapbooking arena, and it just hasn't happened. I like this new idea because it's simple, and I can still use my own handwriting for journaling. Intrigued? Check out project life. I've been stalking Amazon waiting for the products to get restocked. I'm hoping to do the basic black album, and I'm not sure yet if I'll do one of their paper packs or just pick my own. Pretty paper kind of ranks up there with pretty fabric, you know? ;o) I think I can handle slicing up some 4x6 and 3x4 rectangles. This just might be the year I start getting caught up (I haven't scrapbooked since Jackson was a baby!!).

Reading--

making a list of books I want to get through (and checking which libraries have what I want, which books I may need to purchase), hoping to do a family read-aloud through all of Narnia, and trying a new approach that will hopefully lure Jackson to the written word . . .

Wavering--

to spend my Christmas money on new books or the 50 mm lens . . . books? . . . lens? . . . oh the dilemma ;o)

Commissioning--

Josh to build me another bookshelf

"Piano-ing"--

okay, not really a word, but I'm going to get the girls going on some keyboard skills

Assigning--

each child a day of the (school) week, Marissa on Monday, Isabella on Tuesday, etc. (five children, five days, how perfect!) when I will spend some one-on-one time doing something they want to do. And I'll pray, specifically and more in depth for that child on that day.

Any special plans on your agenda for the year??

A New Year . . . A New Word

2012-01-02T08:39:00.001-06:00

As another year has closed and a new one begun, I find myself thinking towards a "theme word" again. It's truly not something I do lightly or on whim . . . after all, the year I chose "joy" I found myself with a brain tumor, and last year, the year of "patience" found me moved to the middle of nowhere . . . God always takes these words and somehow they end up a central theme for me--usually in ways I hadn't imagined. It has been suggested I find a word that seem more promising--like "prosperity" or "abundance" or something--but I just have a feeling if I were to choose something like that I would find myself pregnant with triplets.

I've thought on and off about the word throughout December, but nothing was jumping out and singing to me. I debated a "Patience-Part Two" year--truthfully I'll spend the rest of my life working at being a more patient person. If anything, 2011 revealed how much I need to grow in that area. For awhile I considered the word "abide." The dictionary describes that word this way "1. to stand fast; remain; go on being 2. to stay; reside 3. to await 4. to submit to; put up with." And well, if you know me and my heart right now, you will understand why I identify with that word a lot. But that word kind of depressed me--not that it isn't a lovely word, but after a year of patience I needed something with a bit more action (I think . . .). ;o) And then I landed on it, a word that popped out of this verse:

Hebrews 10:24, 25

. . . and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the days draw near . . .

and it kind of whispered to me
ENCOURAGE
I like it for a number of reasons--
that I might be that kind of wife
that I might come alongside and encourage my children (not "guilt" them)
for here on my blog
(one of the reasons I started blogging was in hopes of being an encouragement to others in one way or another)
that I be that kind of friend, sister, daughter, etc.
as a reminder of all those who have gone out their ways to encourage me

A year focused on encouraging sounds so cheerful and happy, striving for words that are edifying to those around me. I'm ready to dig in . . . I think. ;o)

Good-bye 2011!

2011-12-31T14:55:00.000-06:00

It's always fun to do a quick look back through all the picture files at the end of the year and remind myself of the things we did and enjoyed that have already been forgotten. Our life is nothing fancy or spectacular . . . just a series of moments, days strung together where we love and learn and have fun together. It was a good year.

And I'm looking forward to seeing what God will do in 2012!

Blessings to you and yours in the new year!!

2011--What I Read

2011-12-30T06:30:00.003-06:00

The Talent Code by Daniel Coyle

Crazy Love by Francis Chan

Kristin Lavransdatter: The Wreath by Sigrid Undset

Choosing to See by MaryBeth Chapman

Organized Simplicity by Tsh Oxenreider

The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder*

One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

The Apothecary's Daughter by Julie Klassen

The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen

The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen

The Lady of Milkweed Manor by Julie Klassen

The Blue Bottle Club by Penelope Stokes

The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner

A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers*

An Echo in the Darkness by Francine Rivers*

As Sure as the Dawn by Francine Rivers*

Six Ways to Keep the Little in Your Girl by Dannah Gresh

Leaving by Karen Kingsbury

Learning by Karen Kingsbury

Longing by Karen Kingsbury

The Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson

The Mission of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson*

Almost Forever by Deborah Raney

Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer

Song of the Lark by Willa Cather

Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm by Kate Douglas Wiggin*

Kilmeny of the Orchard by L.M. Montgomery

Give Them Grace by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick

The Rhythm of Family by Amanda Blake Soule

Rumors of Water by L.L. Barkat

Joseph by Terri L. Fivash

Emily of Deep Valley by Maud Hart Lovelace

(* denotes books I've read before)

My favorites? As far as nonfiction goes One Thousand Gifts and Give Them Grace were two good ones . . . I think I will even be rereading One Thousand Gifts come January. And of the fiction reads, the two I read in December are going to end up being my favorites, Joseph and Emily of Deep Valley. Joseph was a retelling of the biblical Joseph. I think because I am at a place in my life right now where I wonder, "God, what are you doing?" I found myself identifying with the emotions Joseph may have experienced. It was a good reminder that God's ways don't always make a lot of sense in the moment, but in the end He's got it all figured out. Emily of Deep Valley had a similar theme, Emily and her classmates graduate high school and they all head off to college, she is left behind, caring for her grandfather. At first she falls into despondency, but then slowly learns to make the most of her situation. In the end she is just where she needed to be for growth and change to happen. Another good reminder for me right now . . .
~
I also managed to complete my first-ever Bible read through this past spring! After a bit of New Testament "dabbling" here and there I began back at the beginning and am currently finishing up Nehemiah.
~
And those are the reads for 2011 . . . I'm already compiling what I hope to get through in the new year (and may have gotten a head-start on a few!). ;o)

The Christmases

2011-12-29T10:15:00.001-06:00

A little picture round-up--

checking out the bounty

"the girls"

the dolls have been having a grand time . . .

packaging is always more fun

boys and cars

Says Josh, "We wanted to get you something special, but couldn't decide what, so we got you the whole world." (cracked me up) ;o)

everyone in their new jammies Christmas morning--in front of Grandma's tree

love those little footsies

the girl who wanted books (books, and more books)

And while we didn't keep up with our activity countdown, we were blessed to spend time with people.

The girls got to catch up with their bestest friends via play dates, sleepovers, and the like.

We enjoyed hanging out with cousins from both sides of the family.

The oldest four got to have a last day sleepover down at the farm enabling me to pack up all our stuff and Christmas bounty without interference (which may have totally saved my sanity!). Can you believe I almost told my mom it wouldn't work because I was too tired to take the kids anywhere? Thankfully Josh talked some sense into me and offered to drive them out and pick them up himself.

We officially wore Marissa out . . . a feat we had yet to accomplish. ;o)

Coming back is always so hard . . . mainly because I always want to stay.

We truly had a wonderful time and are so thankful for the relationships we hold dear.

I hope all of your celebrating was equally as blessed.

Now, to wrap up this year . . .

Celebrating our Terrific Two Year Old

2011-12-28T14:51:00.001-06:00

Daddy arrived at Grandpa and Grandma's house around supper time on Owen's birthday.

He brought the mail with him, including a birthday card for Owen from Great-Granny (in Massachusetts). He was delighted with his own mail and accompanying dollar bill . . .

Not only did the dollar morph into a handy telephone, he also liked it for its eye patch capabilities. ;o)

A picture of Mommy and her "baby"--love his little smirk. ;o)

He unwrapped his gifts from us and Grandpa and Grandma . . . lots of choo-choos!

The day after we headed down to my parents to do our family Christmas, but we also celebrated Owen there, more presents, and a very yummy chocolate cake--

Originally, I was going to make a cake that looked like a penguin.

Yeah.

In the end I found a recipe for a delicious chocolate cake and plopped a whole bunch of penguin figurines on top. A party planner I am not . . . ;o)

Sadly, I have no pictures of him with either sets of grandparents . . . in fact as I went through all my pictures from our extended Lincoln stay I can see that my brain must have been elsewhere. The family picture in our Christmas Eve best? Pictures of cousins together? A number of other shots I had planned to get? I had *intentions* of getting them all, alas, they did not happen. I'm hoping that means I was too busy living in the moment to hide behind my camera . . . right??

That's what I'm telling myself anyway. ;o)

Whatever the case, hopefully Owen knows he was loved and celebrated and cake was had, in spite of the fact we weren't able to do a full-out party! Oh, and if you'd like to keep track, he's also on his 2nd round of antibiotics this month . . . can you guess what for??

Happy 2nd to my Owen!!!

2011-12-22T06:30:00.001-06:00

On the eve of your 2nd birthday I broke out some new footie pajamas--all green and full of festive little penguins--I was saving them for Christmas Eve but decided it fitting you wake up in them on your 2nd birthday. And I remembered back two years ago to another pair of brand-new footie pajamas all decked in snowmen that enveloped your wee little self.

And so you sat next to Bella last night, in your new jammies and I asked you what you were thankful for, you told me "Preston, the monkey" (Isabella's new stuffed animal) and then pointed to your jammies "and penguins." I smiled. You bowed your little head of crazy blonde hair and scrunched your eyes all tight, folding your hands, all set to pray. And my heart nearly set to bursting, and I paused to take a mental picture.

That hair that I should cut . . .

Those blue, blue, blue eyes . . .

You . . .

. . . delightful and full of mirth, the biggest copy-cat I've ever known.

You remain the doted-on member of our family, a mommy, a daddy, sisters, and brothers all loving you to pieces. You make us laugh, you amaze us, and you love us in your very snuggly way.

Your birthday is so special to me because it falls so close to Christmas. I remember the waiting, the longing for your arrival. I remember the blizzard that encouraged us to leave the hospital a bit earlier than we had originally intended. I remember sitting in the Christmas Eve service at church with your 2 day old self cradled in my arms. Christmas can never quite be the same again because of that year when God gifted us with you just in time to celebrate.

For these two years you have been a blessing--I am so thankful for you!

Happiest second birthday to you, my most favorite Owen ever! ;o)

Make-a-Memory Days 11-16

2011-12-15T21:03:00.001-06:00

I'm wrapping up the week a bit early. ;o) We're skipping town tomorrow and I'm tying up my loose ends tonight. For the most part I think our activities are coming to an end also. I decided it would just be too hard to be doing daily crafts/projects when I'm not in my own house with access to all my stuff. Instead we have other things lined up (like play dates and birthday parties) that should keep the kids busy.

So Sunday--we tuned into our Lincoln church's Christmas concert via the internet. It left us all a bit sad and wistful, but I'm so thankful we were still able to "show up" even if it was in our own living room. We made it festive with some sparkling grape juice to sip. ;o)

Monday--we read a book and talked about what it must have been like to be shepherds in the fields watching sheep and made these pictures:

Tuesday--read a book about the angels that announced the news to the shepherds and did these pictures (involved metallic paints in case the pictures don't show it). I loved that Isabella included the biblical text on hers!

On Wednesday--we worked together to make these (and also worked on grace for the wide range of coloring skills represented among us . . .) ;o)

On Thursday--(tonight!!) We had a movie and popcorn night. I had checked out "The Nativity Story" from the library back over Thanksgiving. None of us had seen it before. I can't say everything was portrayed accurately (mainly the wise men), but overall it gave me fresh eyes to see a story I've heard over and over and over. I love when that happens!

On Friday--(tomorrow!!) The kids and I are leaving mid-morning for Kearney. We have a few things to grab at Walmart, then the girls are making up this week's violin lesson, then Owen has a follow-up doctor appointment. After that we are Lincoln bound! I'm armed with lots of Christmas cd's, fun wintry/Christmas coloring pages, and these pre-packed snacks to tide them over, all done up festively for our little adventure:

Among other news I was completely surprised and delighted to have this delivered to my door today:

After admiring one my dear friend Kathy had made for herself, she surprised me with one for my own home. I love it so much! (And what do you know, I have a similar shelf to place it on, so I have TOTALLY copied her look!) ;o) I think she should go into business!

And I should also mention that the box the sign arrived in kept my kids entertained for a good portion of the afternoon--

Thanks again Kathy! ;o)

Josh is immersed in grading finals and has a crazy next few days ahead of him. School's out tomorrow and all grades must be inputted. Saturday he leaves crazy early for a wrestling meet (5:30 am!!) and won't get in until around 11:00 pm that evening. Sunday he'll be joining us in Lincoln but he has to go back Monday so they can continue wrestling practice through the 22nd. Then he has a full five days free and clear. We're all looking forward to that!

As for me, I need to go put the finishing touches on my packing--each time it gets a bit easier, although there is SO MUCH to remember this time around (like all the Christmas presents!!). At least if I forget something Josh can bring it for me!! If I'm not back on my blog again before Christmas, I wish all of you a wonderful time celebrating our Savior's birth!

Celebrating the Season (around the house)

2011-12-12T08:37:00.000-06:00

Fact: In the fall I'm utterly obsessed with the pumpkin and would stick one on every horizontal surface if I could. Once winter rolls around I must transfer my obsession to something else . . .

Enter THE PINECONE.

I love them nearly as much. In fact, I love them so much I was incredibly delighted to discover www.pinecones.com would ship me humongous sugar pinecones for a pretty reasonable price.

I ordered seven (for a grand total of $21--shipped!).

It brings my collection of massive pinecones up to nine.

Plus all the spruce cones Josh gathered for me last year (that I painted and glittered).

The pinecone wreaths.

The pinecones hanging in my Christmas tree.

They're everywhere.

(Just wanted to warn you before I share Christmas decorating pictures and you wonder, "What is it with her and all those pinecones?")

However, I am quite pleased to announce that aside from the $21 I spent on pinecones EVERYTHING else I had on hand and reused and mixed it up to make it feel all new to me again. It's always fun to get to decorate a new space for the first time!

The dining room hutch . . .

(pine cone wreaths from last year, "brown paper packages tied up with strings" from two years ago, and "JOY" letter popped into my picture frames from other hutch, paper medallions folded out of printed off old Christmas carols and toile paper, {pinecones--but you already knew that}) ;o)

Above the piano, chalkboard leaned against the wall (someday I--meaning Josh-- will put a frame around it) ;o)

(lyrics from "Oh Holy Night" written in a white chalk marker, old window box stuffed with old grapevine garland/Hobby Lobby garland, little Target trees, {pinecones})

Atop the dining room table

(Goodwill basket I painted, branches from my Christmas tree that I snipped off the back side where nobody would see with Josh's wire cutters--shh don't tell, ;o) {pinecones} and a little banner just 'cause banners make me happy and I love them nearly as much as pinecones)
~
The tree

(I borrowed my mother-in-law's galvanized wash tub to stick my tree in--LOVE that look!! The star may or may not be askew . . . but let's face it, a tree with mostly handmade ornaments decorated mostly by children aged 10 and under is not going to win any decorating awards) ;o)

(the small hutch with a more "wintry" feeling going on, everything up there will stay until it is time to decorate for spring)

A more complete view of our living room

The little black bench is home to our Fisher Price nativity (one of these years we'll get a real one for me!) and our collection of Christmas stories--kind of a "kid's corner."

The side of the living room that is not pictured--

I had to get creative with my wing back chairs, usually they both flank the tv, now they are hemming in the piano to make way for the Christmas tree in the corner. I didn't know what I was going to do with out stockings, so this year I just strung some twine in the corner and clothes-pinned them on. It did the trick. It was either that or hang them over the tv, which just kind of seemed sad and pathetic. ;o)

And that, for the most part, is it. I did make a few more paper banners from colorful Christmas papers, hung here and there in the kitchen. I have so many ideas I would like to get to (in the craft arena) but there is only so much time in day. This week is really our last week to enjoy everything here since we'll be gone from home for so long over over Christmas, so we'll make the most of it. I do so love the happy glow of a Christmas tree to sit around in the dark of the mornings (and evenings too, for that matter!).

Have a lovely week!!

Make-a-Memory Days 4-10

2011-12-10T14:40:00.000-06:00

The weekly round-up:

On Sunday we created jingle bell necklaces and danced over and over to Mannheim Steamrollers "Deck the Halls" (I could only locate one necklace to photograph)

On Monday we made our embroidery hoop ornaments, hot-gluing ribbons and rick-rack to the fabric, Emmett opted out of this project, although I still have his ready to go should he change his mind.

On Tuesday, life happened. Since I was heading to Kearney for the girls' lessons I thought I would get my Owen in to see the doctor because he didn't seem quite right. The poor guy has lost both his ear tubes, had double ear infections, as well as broncheolitis. We spent the afternoon running down antibiotic prescriptions and nebulizers and fun stuff like that. Lots of "lovely" memories were made. ;o)

On Wednesday we made some Christmas cards.

On Thursday I let the kids take turns at helping me cut out cookies. They each got exactly one turn and then I said, "Let's watch a movie and Mommy will finish up!" Some things are just easier accomplished in peace and quiet and without ten extra helping hands . . . *ahem*

Friday was cookie decorating day. Now truth be told, I'd love to do the whole royal icing gig and have my cookies end up looking like this. Instead we opt for flavor (as in butter cream frosting, which really has no recipe, butter, powdered sugar, whipping cream, vanilla/almond extract . . . beat it together until it resembles frosting) and kid-friendliness. I cannot count how many times I was told on Friday that "This is always my favorite activity!" There's no pressure for picture-perfect cookies that we can share with neighbors, if a knife gets licked or somebody sneezes, life will go on . . . it's all a laid-back environment. We turned up the Mannheim and got busy.

Yes, there was a clothing change (and baths!) for certain boys as you will note in the "We're finished!" picture. ;o)

And today we finished off our week with gingerbread houses.

Silly Emmett snuck into my picture. ;o)

Gingerbread houses are frustrating little things, but we attempt them anyway. They are mostly still standing. ;o) We haven't quite finished all of our gingerbread day activities, still some books to read, I made cut-out gingerbread men if we get around to frosting them and I baked some gingerbread muffins, but seeing as we have a gazillion cookies on hand the muffins are more just for me . . . so I can get my lemon curd fix . . . ;o) I had some felt gingerbread projects I was working on, but I don't think I'll get to them today. Perhaps I'll save them for "Gingerbread Day-Part Two" when we are back in Lincoln. It looks like the kids and I will be heading back on the 16th for an extended stay. Josh will join us briefly on the 18th and then he has to be back for wrestling practice for a few more days. In the end, we figure it will be nice to have two vehicles for hauling presents (and perhaps some chairs Kathy!!) ;o) back home.

"Napkin" Pillows

2011-12-07T15:47:00.000-06:00

Truly, I'm not the first to discover the joy of making a cheap pillow cover from a pair of napkins, but it is the first time I have tried it, and it is such a quick and easy sewing project I had to share.

A pair of napkins and a pillow form are all you really need (and a sewing machine of course!). ;o)

I found these napkins at Target, 2 for $3.99.

I picked up some pom-pom fringe at Hobby Lobby to edge them in--pom-pom fringe makes everything more fun, but of course that is your own preference. ;o)

Find an online tutorial on how to make an envelope pillow. Like this one.

If you use pom-pom fringe I pin it to the pillow front like shown in the picture and then I sew it down. That way when I sew the back flaps on there is no shifting of the fringe. You could skip this step if you feel brave, but I don't recommend it . . .

And voila!!!

There were going to be two pillows but unfortunately for me I totally miscalculated how much fringe I would need (such a rookie mistake!). That will have to wait for next week's trip to Kearney. Boo.

Day in the Life of an (Almost) Two Year Old

2011-12-05T19:19:00.000-06:00

Come stumbling down the hall at 6:45 to find your mommy at the dining room table.

Complain that the lights are too bright.

Insist she snuggle you just so, when she doesn't do it right, reposition her hands in the proper places.

Watch a bit of Blue's Clues.

Wander back over to mommy, insist upon more snuggling.

Return to Blue's Clues.

Steal a few cheerios from the siblings' bowls in spite of the fact you have your own.

Use the open dishwasher as a step-stool to pour yourself another bowl.

Miss the bowl.

Mommy sweeps cheerios out of dishwasher.

Inform Mommy that "I pooped" in the night-time diaper.

Upon inspection Mommy discovers that yes, you did.

Finish up business on the potty.

Mommy takes a shower, finds you on the counter of the bathroom when she gets done.

Discovers you had stuck a "feminine product" in your pajama pants.

She laughs a lot and updates her facebook status.

The school day begins, your job as class jester begins.

You pretend you are a doggie eating the girls' books.

You color a snowman picture orange.

You throw a book.

You sneak over the back of the couch while Mommy is reading and bop her on the head with the "push popper"

Mommy was not happy.

You cheer "Yay chili!" when you discover Mommy making it for lunch.

While your sisters and Mommy head up lunch clean-up you decide you are quite a mess.

Mommy finds you in the bathtub naked, getting ready to draw yourself a bath.

Mommy sighs.

Eventually, it is naptime. You sleep.

You wake up too soon, distraught, "I peed!!!" you wail.

Mommy strips you of your pants and tries to get you to go back to sleep. You complain of being cold. She covers you up. You don't want blankets on you, you want to tuck yourself under Mommy's legs just so and rob body-heat. She informs you that you are being ridiculous.

Naptime is abandoned.

You notice your three oldest siblings outside in snow.

You find a hat, a mitten, and one boot and dress yourself.

Mommy says no snow. You are not pleased.

She bribes you with a bit of peppermint ice cream.

You are delighted.

Mommy works on supper, you pull up your chair to help.

You find a clementine and a steak knife and set about starting to peel it.

When Mommy realizes what you have in hand you have already managed to nick your finger with the knife.

You eat your clementine happily. Then you ask for a banana.

Mommy hesitates, will you really eat it?

You really want the banana. She peels it.

You aren't interested.

Granny calls on the phone.

Mommy talks to Granny while finishing supper prep, you take it upon yourself to salt and pepper the mashed potatoes.

Granny says she better let Mommy go.

Mommy hangs up, you ask, "Who was that?"

We eat supper. You have a 2nd bath.

You complain of being cold.

Mommy wraps you in a blanket on the couch.

Your sisters pull out the violins to practice.

You leave your position on the couch and climb on Mommy's back.
"I'm up here!" you wave to your sisters.

They are working on Christmas duets.

"Ready, Go!!" you say, starting them over and over. They are in fits of giggles.
You have a naked chase with your brothers all over the house, you carry a bag with a hamburger bun, periodically stopping for a bite.
You're being sought after by a four year old wielding a long un-peeled carrot.
Mommy sighs again . . . eyes the clock . . . when will Daddy be home from wrestling?
Daddy's home!
You climb upon the kitchen counter naked, announce proudly, "I'm up here!" and then jump into your Daddy's arms.
While a game of Sorry gets underway Mommy slinks off to reflect upon the day . . .
and gear up for tomorrow.
She wonders what she has gotten herself into.

Jackson's Gift

2011-12-04T10:37:00.003-06:00

This month the kids and I are working on practicing random acts of kindness. The idea had its origins here.  I thought it was one of the best ways to countdown to Christmas--with an emphasis completely on the the giving. I would have loved to do it full-scale this year, but came across the idea too late to really get organized for it. Instead we are doing it on a small scale--each night I ask the kids if they did something or had somebody do something kind or unselfish for them that day.  I then write it down on a slip of paper, and put it in a jar, encouraging them to think of things to do so we can fill the jar up.  The first few nights it was "Marissa did this . . ." and "Isabella did that . . ." I really wasn't sure if any of my boys were grasping the concept (or if they at all cared!).

Last night I discovered Jackson putting my dishes away, unloading the dishwasher! One plate, one cup, one thing at a time he climbed up on my counter and put every last dish away.   I almost cried.

He has never unloaded the dishwasher before. It's the girls' job. They do it quickly, efficiently, and mostly without complaining. Jackson on the other-hand has never been what I would describe as a cheerful and willing worker. Most everything with him comes with some sort of battle. As of late he and I have waged lots of battles. That boy has a streak of stubborn a mile wide. I love him to pieces, because he's Jackson and he's mine. But those daily running-ins I have with his willfulness--well, they're wearisome.  Often I have doubted my ability to parent him right.

To find him on his own initiative was stunning--a gift of grace--amidst weeks and weeks of "brick wall." When you have a child that is hard, those moments are beautiful, rare, and hard-fought for, true jewels amidst a lot of "in the trenches." I'm so thankful for a God who gives me a glimmer sometimes that things ARE sinking in . . . even if it's not on my time-schedule. It is enough to spur me on--loving, instructing, and always praying.

As for Jackson, we praised him heartily and hugged him, told him how proud we were that he chose to do something so kind. The way his face beamed, breaking into a smile, how he hopped up and down with excitement--it's an image I'll carry with me and remind myself of when we find ourselves battling it out again, waiting for the day I run into that same boy once more.

Make-a-Memory Days 1-3

2011-12-03T15:26:00.001-06:00

I realize that in the past I've daily blogged our activities for the month of December. This year I'm opting for a weekend round-up. So, up first, and completely and totally unrelated to our Christmas activities, our blood model--

It was just too cool not to share a picture. ;o) We finished up a unit on blood in science, and using a mixture of corn syrup and candy variety we concocted this. Even Josh was impressed (although he thought the platelets might have been better represented by a solid color candy sprinkle . . . but the rainbow ones do look pretty, right?). ;o)

After the riveting lesson on blood we rounded out the day with our mini canvas ornament paintings--

I think the first three are pretty self-explanatory. Emmett's began as a red "Christmas airplane" and slowly evolved from there with layer (upon layer) of paint. I like to think of the finished product as a VERY up close painting of a Christmas tree branch. ;o) And Owen, well, he thoroughly enjoyed himself. ;o)

Day Two

Glitter Ball Ornaments--these were an improvisation (story of my life . . .). ;o) The Pledge floor wax that I was supposed to use I was unable to locate when I was in Kearney this past Tuesday. And I kind of forgot about the fact if Kearney doesn't have it, there's no way Arapahoe would have it. So, I pulled out some furniture polish that had "Pledge" on the label and squirted it in. Then the glitter I *thought* I had purchased was absent-without-leave, causing me to use what glitter I had on hand. It all seemed to work and we ended up with some ornaments that remind me of icy bubbles. We hung them from the light fixture in the dining room.

Day Three

We awoke to SNOW!!!

Let me tell you, it is no small feat readying five children for an outside adventure! Owen got his first snow experience--he didn't last as long as the others--but it was a joy seeing him check out the cold, white world around him. Marissa built the snowman all by herself and Jackson went off in search of the perfect arms. He came and asked me for a carrot, I offered him the longest baby carrot I could find which he used with resignation. I told him I had a frozen banana that would work, but of course that is just WRONG, not to mention bananas have a curve to them that carrots do not. I was thinking a Gonzo-styled snowman? He wasn't having it. ;o)

After coming in we set about to our having our "peppermint day." We read our candy cane story, made minty red play-dough, and are still awaiting our afternoon snack of peppermint popcorn. I have a fierce craving for the candy cane milk that Super Saver usually has and am wondering if I could recreate a knock-off recipe. That is some good stuff! ;o)

We've begun our Jesse Tree readings. This year in order to keep everyone at the table and (mostly) listening while I read I've been searching out coloring pages that go along with each day's devotion. I started a Pinterest board of these pages if anyone is interested. So far it has worked great at keeping antsy little boys at the table! ;o) And sadly, I received an email yesterday that my little advent countdown would not be coming--they ran out. :o( Looks like I'll be slapping together something this weekend . . . I'm definitely in need of something quick and easy!!

We've been enjoying cuddle sessions on the couch with our Christmas book collection and all of the winter and Christmas books we brought back from the Lincoln library (yes, I strategically plan my holds/renewals around our trips back to Lincoln!). We always seem to read more once the weather gets colder, and what's not to love about that! ;o) I'm especially enjoying all the books Owen brings to me, and it is never hard to find time to cuddle him up on my lap. His absolute favorite right now? Who is Coming to Our House? (someone, someone said the mouse . . .) ;o)

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!

The Winner Is . . .

2011-12-01T08:06:00.000-06:00

Interrupting Owen's self-helping of a cracker breakfast to bring you this news. ;o)

Yay Anna!! Hope your kids have fun with them! I'll drop them in the mail today or tomorrow!

Christmas Activites--2011 (and a few other resources)

2011-11-29T21:28:00.002-06:00

I'm putting the finishing touches on my list of activities for the year! Some are repeats of previous years, some are new. I usually try to do ornament activities toward the beginning of the month so we can enjoy them on our tree all of December. This year we have a solid week of "nativity-inspired" activities. I'm still working through the last week. There is a possibility the kids and I will be back in Lincoln as early as the 17th (kind of depends on when Josh's Texas sister is able to get time off from work), and we thought rather than drive us all back and forth and back and forth again we would just set up house. ;o) If that is the case you can assume I'll have some rather simple ideas planned (that will travel well!!). I've included links where appropriate (if you're interested).

1. Mini Canvas Ornament Paintings, like these
2. Glitter Ball Ornaments, like these
3. Peppermint Day--involving the reading of The Legend of the Candy Cane, peppermint play-dough, and some minty treats, last year's here
4. Embroidery Hoop Ornaments, like these
5. Make/Decorate Christmas Cards
6. Jingle Bell Bracelets (or necklaces)
7. Christmas Ornament Collage/Painting, like these
8. Cookie Baking Day
9. Cookie Decorating Extravaganza
10. Gingerbread Day--involving the reading of Jan Brett's "gingerbread books," decorating some gingerbread houses, perhaps some gingerbread men to decorate, or maybe we'll just make gingerbread muffins, last year's here
11. Craft a Toilet Paper Tube Nativity, printables found here
12. "Shepherd and Sheep" picture, read The Shepherd's Christmas Story
13. Angel Picture, read A Glorious Angel Show
14. Decorate a Wise Man's Gift, read 'Twas the Night (The Nativity Story)
15. Make a Nativity Scene Picture, read Christ is Born
16. Family Movie Night, watch The Nativity Story
17. Nativity Styled "Gingerbread" Scene, like this (or "drive back to Lincoln with Mommy!!") ;o)
18. Nativity Muffin Tin Meal, last year's here
19. Yet to be determined . . .
20. Yet to be determined . . .
21. Yet to be determined . . .
22. Celebrate Owen's 2nd Birthday! I'm leaning towards a penguin theme . . .
23. Christmas Lights Tour in our Pajamas (possibly Christmas on my side of the family)
24. Christmas Eve Church Service, open gifts from Grandpa/Grandma
25. "Happy Birthday Jesus" Breakfast Party, and open gifts from Daddy/Mommy

Among other Christmas ideas, this is our Christmas book for this year--

I have to say, I LOVE it!! I read through it quickly upon its arrival and by the time I finished I had goosebumps! Each page tells of how creation got ready for the birth of the Savior. Being someone with a fondness for nature, I was just struck with that idea. The last line read "Heaven's Son sleeping under the stars that he made. " Is that not an amazing thought to ponder? This one comes highly recommended!

We'll also be tackling the Jesse Tree again. In years past we have used Ann Voskamp's free one from her blog at A Holy Experience. This year we'll be using this book--

After ordering it I discovered this ebook Truth in the Tinsel just came out, and I'm half tempted to get it too!! I think it would be great for the younger set! It's pretty inexpensive and you can head here to check that out.

I'm also awaiting this adorable little advent calendar from Family Christian Stores. Every year I tell myself I'm going to make something like it, and when I saw this one (which I got for $15) I decided I probably couldn't make one for that (and it saved me a whole bunch of time too). ;o) I figure I can slip the little paper that reveals our activity for the day in the pocket with the "softie" of the day. It should also pack up well if we end up back in Lincoln for an extended stay. All important things to consider!

Still in need of more ideas? You can check my pinterest board! I'm always pinning more than I'll be able to accomplish, so help yourself! ;o)

Our Thanksgiving Weekend--in review

2011-11-28T15:37:00.001-06:00

We're back after a nice long weekend visiting friends and family in Lincoln!

Hardly any pictures were taken, but as always, lots of good memories made.

The kids woke up bright and early Thanksgiving morning and as soon as it was light enough got busy in the pile of leaves that was awaiting them just outside the door.

We enjoyed Thanksgiving day with Josh's family and lots of tasty food. His mom always sets her table so beautifully for each season/holiday--it's always fun to see what she has combined--

And the day after Thanksgiving we were celebrating with my side of the family. My youngest brother offered to host this year. I wish I had pictures of his house!! He has spent the last several years (four, maybe five??) remodeling his home. Truly when he got started on this project I wished he would just burn it down. But room by room he stripped the house down to its bare studs and rebuilt it from that point. He has done an AMAZING job! The inside is so bright and welcoming, and we all enjoyed eating, watching the game, and celebrating my mom's birthday there . The kids spent most of their time outside, jumping bales, swinging on the tire swing, and cracking walnuts with a hammer.

(Four goons performing on the bales) ;o)

And now we're back! We picked up our Christmas tree on the way home at the Menards in Kearney (I always like a Fraser Fir and they have good prices). Living on the edge, we hurriedly picked one that was already bundled up and tied her down tight to the top of the van. And then we said a quick prayer that--

1. It would not fly off on the interstate and hit somebody behind us

2. When we unwrapped it, most of the branches we expected it to have would be there.

And I'm happy to say our tree made the journey intact, and for sight-unseen it's not too shabby.

*deep sigh of relief*

Currently, my home is in varying states of Christmas decorating and unpacking-ness. I've started my online Christmas shopping and have a feeling the mailman will hate me in a few short weeks. I'm also planning out our daily December activities. I find all of this hard to do when it is 62 degrees outside. Not that I'm complaining. I've been trying to keep up running as long as I can (I usually fall off the wagon once it gets chilly) and the weather definitely makes that more agreeable.

That's what we've been up to while the blog has been quiet. ;o) Now off to snuggle a little guy who didn't wake up from his nap well and figure out what I can rummage up for supper!

A Give-Away!!!

2011-11-20T20:33:00.000-06:00

Inspired by these adorable little finger puppets I decided to make a set for my own bunch and then thought, "Why not make two?" And so I did. ;o)

Hopefully, who they are supposed to be is fairly self-explanatory!

They are a mix of felt, humble embroidery, some gluing, and a dash of glitter glue.

If you would like to win these little fellas, be you a mama, a grandma, or somebody who would like to re-gift to a family who could use them, go ahead a leave me a comment--tell me your favorite Christmas memory from childhood!!

I'll be drawing the winner the morning of December 1st.

(please leave me an email to reach you in this form: yourname (at) wherever (dot) com)

Stationery card

2011-11-20T19:33:00.003-06:00

For Unto Us Religious Christmas Card

Create personalized Christmas cards at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Christmas Gifts for Kids~Part Two

2011-11-19T16:19:00.000-06:00

Continuing on from yesterday . . . a few things my girls have enjoyed (probably within the age range of 5-10 years old).

"Loops and Loom" you can find these all over! My only suggestion when looking is to make sure your loom has a bit of a hook to the the top so the loops don't slip right off. We had one like that and it was beyond frustrating.

This is one of our favorite project books for kids. Isabella will sit with it often and make stuff from it (all without help from me). Pair this books with a package of needles, felt in a variety of colors, and perhaps a few colorful "fat quarters" and you've got a perfect gift for a crafty sort of girl.

~
This kit has been a lot of fun for my girls! There are templates for different fairy heads, dresses, accessories, etc and you can pick and choose and then trace to create your own fairy. There is a horse kit too (for the equestrian loving girl). I linked it up to Amazon, however we purchased ours from either Hearth Song or Magic Cabin. If you sign up for their emails they almost always have some sort of free or reduced shipping deals during this time of year.

~
I still haven't gotten around to reading them, but both my girls have LOVED these books. We currently have the first four in the series, set when Betsy and her friends are girls, but the series goes on, all the way up until Betsy getting married. From what I have gathered, they are books every girl should read!

If you have a girl who loves dolls (be them American Girl or not!) these little books/kits are adorable! They have incredibly creative ideas for making items for your dolls and Isabella has had so much fun creating all sorts of scenes and activities for her dolls. It actually makes me want to play . . . ;o)

~
What's on the girls' wish lists this year? For the most part books (which always does my heart good). ;o) Marissa wants books about writing and drawing as well as some new fiction stories. Isabella wants more of those American Girl kits, a variety of crafting/sewing books, the final two stories to complete her "Little House on the Prairie" collection, and some doll clothes--we found that Amazon sells clothing to fit 18 inch dolls (much cheaper than the actual American Girl clothing). Marissa is also pushing for her own laptop, because she say editing her stories in her notebooks is much too sloppy and time consuming. I see her point, but unless we find a REALLY cheap one I'm thinking her own laptop might be a ways off. ;o)

Christmas Gifts for Kids~Part One

2011-11-18T15:14:00.001-06:00

Lately my wheels have been turning as I attempt to compile wish lists for the kids this year (Amazon all the way!). ;o) We keep our gift buying fairly simple and inexpensive. Most times as I'm configuring lists I'm thinking ahead, "What do we need to survive these winter months without going crazy?" I thought I might share a few of our absolute favorites--perhaps no-brainer ideas--but something I think every household should have (especially if you have little boys, but my girls have enjoyed these things too). I'm always on the look-out for toys considered "open-ended" where kids must use their imaginations to decide how to use them.

Trio Blocks--both Jackson and Emmett have loved these (going on two years now!). They almost get played with daily. We have collected several additional kits to go along with it. And yes, these seem to work great for building weaponry of the gun-sort. ;o) This year I'm eyeing the "gears" set for Emmett.

If you don't have a set of wooden blocks, you need one. All of my kids play with these, in fact one of their favorite things to do together is build a zoo and put all the Fisher Price Little People animals that we have in their pens. This set is really nice quality.

Jackson has been bitten by the Lego bug. Yes, they are messy. Yes, I step on them far too often. But also yes, they keep him busy, sometimes for HOURS. Here is a good starter set and then you can purchase added kits to your heart's content. ;o)

Mr. Potato Head--enough said? ;o) We have slowly grown a collection of parts, purchasing specialty kits from time to time. It has long been one of Jackson's favorites and Owen is getting interested in decorating them now too.

These we do not own, but having watched my kids play with them at various children's museums and knowing how my mom used them in the after-school program she ran, I'm pretty certain we would enjoy them (they are a bit more on the pricey side though, particularly if you are going to get enough to build something super cool).

And last but not least, something my sister and I laugh about every year, thinking this just might be the best gift of all:

I'm thinking three rolls could get you a day of busy kids, so buy in multiple quantities. ;o) My kids are constantly confiscating my tape and I'm always out because of it. Get them their own! What a great stocking stuffer. ;o)

The Latest News--

2011-11-17T12:14:00.000-06:00

What's been happening around these parts--

~I noticed the North Platte Walmart was carrying these reusable diapers "Mabu Baby" and since I'm only diapering at night now, we decided to give it a try. They work pretty good! I might get some of the smaller sized inserts to add a bit of extra absorbency but otherwise I can get rid of my diaper expense! It's hard to believe that I've been buying diapers for ten years and that a new diaper-less era is ahead.

~I've begun to transition in my winter decorations. I used to be a "day after Thanksgiving" kind of Christmas decorator, but now I have five kids and I homeschool. I've got to get a head start or it'll never happen! ;o) Plus, I'm a "tweaker." I set something up, walk by it for a few hours, and then think "Nah," and change it up. It's quite a process and I'll be doing it for the rest of November.

~I was reading a story Marissa was working on and when I came to the main character's name I absolutely lost it. Are you ready? Introducing . . . "Hiro Shittfill." Every time I think about it I burst out laughing all over again. I told her she might want to think of a different last name.

~I'm working on a little blog give-away again, so stay tuned (maybe I'll have it ready come Monday?).

~We'll be heading back to Lincoln come next Wednesday afternoon and are looking forward to seeing all "our people" again. And eating. ;o)

~Two awesome recipes that use all those bags of cranberries that are now in the grocery stores:
#1--Cream Cheese Cranberry Muffins (I usually leave out the pecans because my kids don't enjoy nuts and sometimes I throw in some white chocolate chips which is really tasty) and #2--Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip (I just tried it this weekend and it was incredibly yummy, you could just make the salsa part and leave out the cream cheese, but when have you not known cream cheese to make something better?) ;o)

~We've been delighted with more bird variety at the feeder. We've determined our first visitors were House Finches. The biggest excitement has been a visit (and return visit!) from a Northern Flicker--the biggest woodpecker! He was big and colorful. We think we also had a Black-Capped Chickadee. We are truly loving the interruptions these birds bring to our day.

And I think that catches me up for the moment! ;o)

The Christmas Picture Photo Shoot

2011-11-13T17:04:00.000-06:00

Brace yourselves for a heavily "pictured" post. ;o)

I would have liked to have done pictures earlier in the fall season, but I was hoping to put a little thought into clothing choices and all, and quite frankly trying to get five kids to coordinate takes more than a little bit of effort. I had a little suit that had once been Jackson's to hand down to Owen, and that left me finding four outfits to go with that. In complete lazy mom fashion, I dressed the girls alike, and the other two boys alike. And in case you didn't know, Arapahoe really lacks in clothing stores. ;o) A lot of shopping is done online and then I wait (and wait) for things to arrive. Thankfully, Saturday morning all clothing was finally in hand and the weather was gorgeous so we set out for this old abandoned home I had seen about ten miles north of Arapahoe. I had Josh with me, our "muse." I asked him if he could please not make the kids laugh so much that I have wide open mouths in all the pictures. He informed me beggars can't be choosers. ;o) So, take a look at my group shots and then tell me which one you would enjoy seeing on a Christmas card! (Which by the way I won yet another blog give-away for 25 free cards from Shutter-fly!! Can you believe it! I've never won anything in my life until blog give-aways came along!)

(Just what I was afraid of!)

******

And then I tried to get some individual shots of each of the kids (grandparents, let me know your favorites because you'll be getting some pictures for Christmas!!) ;o)
~Marissa~

~Isabella~

(I'm a bit swoony over the light in this one!)

~Jackson~

~Emmett~

And last, but not least . . .

~Owen~

(yeah, that's all I've got, maybe we'll retry him tomorrow . . . ) ;o)

I'm really enjoying my camera! I still barely know how to use it and wish I could take a class (but I'm not really interested in the commute involved in such an endeavor). I try to read what I can, and copy others (the sincerest form of flattery you know). ;o) After I look over a bunch of pictures I always see a million things I could do better . . . clipping off fingers, too much light, not enough, etc, etc, etc. I'm pretty certain this will never be more than a hobby for me, but it is still fun to play around with. I was really happy with the amount of usable pictures I ended up with this time around--most often photo shoots are abysmal failures. Yay for (mostly) cooperative children!!

Now off to work on a photo order!!

Christmas Carol Ornaments

2011-11-09T14:25:00.002-06:00

Awhile back I found this ornament inspiration (via pinterest). Being someone who loves printed word, I thought the ornaments perfect. However, as I thought about recreating them I realized I wasn't capable of using just *any* printed word (a personality flaw--not to mention I was fresh out of vintage German book pages). ;o) I didn't want an ornament with something on it that had nothing to do with Christmas. I brainstormed a bit and landed upon a solution--Christmas carols! And not just the words, but the music too! I discovered this little site that seriously has hundreds of options--just scroll through the list. I was looking for ones that had a particularly aged appearance. I printed them out on regular old white printer paper. And then with this cast of characters--

Created these--

*love*love*love*

I've only got these two done, but they are fairly simple. I used my little paper trimmer to cut the music into strips--some I left long, some are shorter. I covered the ball in Modge Podge, smoothed my strips around--over-lapping willy-nilly--but saving the song title for very last so I could read it, a little more Modge Podge and then glittered and left to dry (hanging from my kitchen cabinet knobs).

And yippee! A new favorite ornament! ;o)

Lessons in Naptime

2011-11-08T14:45:00.000-06:00

Every once in a while Owen decides he would rather not take a nap. On these days I notice the high energy, the gleam in his eyes, the way he giggles at everything he does. I wait it out a bit, hoping he will get some of that spunk out. Slowly, the situation starts to unravel, he pushes limits a bit more, and instead of tiring himself out I find him picking up speed. It is at that time I have to intervene. I lay down with my little boy who was just giggling, but now furious. He fights the arms that attempt to cradle and snuggle. He pays no heed to words meant to soothe. He does his best to wiggle away. He gets mad and he cries. He wants his own way so badly. I know it would be easier to just let him get up and run free. But I stick it out, knowing how much he needs this nap. I know what is best for him.

Always, at this point I find myself so sad, if he would just give in, acquiesce that stubborn little will of his, he would see how tired he is, how I'm doing what is best for him by making him lay down. I think of myself and my heavenly Father, how far too often I am the crying wiggling toddler intent on my own way. How often I fight Him because I have a better plan. And how sad He must be to see me flail around, a big ol' mess, when I could just be doing it His way.

My heart is grieved as I think these thoughts, meanwhile Owen calms. He snuggles up next to me and his breathing evens out. I wait a minute or two, and slip out of the room, leaving him sleeping peacefully, thinking "See how easy that could have been, little one."

And realizing God probably thinks the same toward me.

Menu Planning . . . revisited

2011-11-06T20:26:00.000-06:00

Two years ago, pregnant with Owen, I sat down and worked on a perpetual menu, a binder to hold the go-to recipes, and grocery lists saved to my computer that I could go and print off whenever the grocery-shopping whim struck me. It truly was a life-saver and a time-saver while Josh finished up school. We would usually do a huge monthly trip, working it around a day where he would have time. We'd all head off to Walmart and three carts or so later we'd return home. It worked great. For that period of life.

I've been trying to make that same plan work here, but it's just not cutting it. My closest (and least favorite Walmart) is half an hour away. The one where I do most of my shopping (Kearney) is a full hour--and yes, I bring coolers and put as many perishables on ice as possible. Usually, the only time we go into Kearney is on Tuesday for violin lessons. We tried all of us making the trip--dropping the girls at lessons, jetting across Kearney, me giving Josh half the list and I taking the other and zooming through Walmart during the 5:00 hour. We did set a grocery shopping record (two weeks of groceries completely through the cashier in 40 minutes is brag-worthy, is it not?) but we also ended up five minutes late retrieving the girls from lessons (and even though it was just a few minutes, I felt terrible). Josh informed me he was really hating Tuesdays, teaching all day, long drive to Kearney, crazy grocery store, long drive home, and asked how about he keep the boys and just the girls and I go? The last few weeks I've done that.

But now, wrestling season is starting . . . I've lost my "boy sitter." :o( And while I will still probably do my weekly grocery shopping in Kearney, I'm going to have a lot of "help." That means it is time to S.I.M.P.L.I.F.Y.--I will only shop for one week of groceries at a time. And so today, I started tweaking things a bit and came up with this nifty six week menu grid--

And let's get honest, anything organized neatly on a grid reduces me to a puddle of giddiness and makes me feel oh-so-competent. ;o) Next up, I'll be typing up the (now smaller) grocery lists and then

VOILA!!!

Six weeks of menus literally at my fingertips--at a more doable once-a-week-with-five-kids-in-tow pace! Now to convince the almost two year old that the shopping-cart-seat-tightly-fastened-in really is THE BEST seat in the house. And also "No, we have to pay for the bananas before we eat them." Certainly my winter shall be filled with many a calm grocery shopping experience . . . Right??

If only a grid were *that* magical. ;o)

Some Links

2011-11-05T09:09:00.001-05:00

This posting on birth control pills was very interesting--truly something every woman should read. I am thankful I had a mom savvy enough to know the hidden info and keep me informed. I've never been on "the pill" (at which you might roll your eyes and think, well obviously you have five kids--but only one of those was technically "unplanned"). There ARE other ways, perhaps more inconvenient, but to me, worth it. Obviously, this is a very personal decision, but I worry about how many women go into it truly uninformed. I wonder how many suffer infertility because of using them too, be it long-term or temporary.

I thought this post on raising older girls good--not that it couldn't apply to boys too! It's a good reminder that an attitude that seems "not that big a deal" could grow into something really yucky if left untended.

These buttermilk biscuits were gobbled up by my gang--they're great (and quick!) for "soup-er Saturday." ;o)

On my list to try Coconut Cream Bread Pudding --that just sounds heavenly. ;o)

Have a happy Saturday! ;o)

A Hodge Podge

2011-11-03T19:26:00.000-05:00

A little recap of the week--

On Sunday we had our yearly Hansmeyer family reunion, fondly referred to as our "Fall Family Festival" although my kids enjoy calling it the "Hansmeyer Hoedown." It is always great fun to catch up with aunts/uncles/cousins that for the most past only get seen once a year. This year my parents hosted and a hay rack ride was included out at my brother's place. There is a cool "trail" that was once a railroad track, but all the track has been removed. It goes through the trees and over several bridges. My dad stopped here, and while adults chatted the kids hopped off and climbed a hill and slid down.

I was so happy to have completed jean shopping the day before so we could get them all properly "broken in." ;o)

Monday we were back to regular life and back to the books . . . all while feeling pretty miserable with colds that seemed to hit the family simultaneously. We were, however, quite delighted to discover the birds have finally found our feeder!

I can't figure out what kind they are! The birdies are kind of gray-ish brown and one (who I think might be the male) has a slight tinge of red on his head and belly. Even a call to my dad who spent a good portion of his youth shooting birds and then taking his specimens over to the encyclopedia for identification couldn't help me out! They've come back every day, sometimes even making several visits.

And we are officially in full potty training mode! After spending the last few weeks "nekkid" we made the jump to underwear this week--

I cannot tell you how this little boy has shocked me over and over again. I had it pretty easy with my girls. Jackson was a horrifying experience. And Emmett was okay, probably fairly normal. Owen has been the easiest all around! He's not afraid to use strange bathrooms. He climbs up on the potty all by himself without even the aid of a stool. He'll sit there and yell, "I pooped!" (which all of my kids found to initially be a terrifying experience) Of course, he does have six cheerleaders applauding all of his efforts. ;o) Today he had only one accident, stayed dry for nap, and even spent an extended period playing outside without being hounded to go potty. So, at home he is doing awesome! I'm still a bit nervous to take this show on the road though . . . I'm not sure how to handle church this weekend. I don't have any idea what he would do in the care of others.

My older three spent ALL afternoon playing in the dirt, working on this--

We have a rather boring yard, but we do have a line of trees, the border between our yard and a field. All sorts of fun and adventure happens over there. I'm thankful the kids have such an untamed place to use their imaginations (this is a "dust factory" in the event you wondered). They came inside for supper, thoroughly dirt-covered and rosy-cheeked with ravenous appetites. I count that a day well spent. ;o) And with it being November, who knows how many of these days we have left this year? We did see a bit of snow showers yesterday, but nothing that stuck to the ground (much to all of our dismay).

~
We're anticipating a weekend at home--I figured out we were gone a solid week in October! There's a lot of "catching up" to do. Slowly but surely, I'm making my way through the piles. Although that dust factory really did nothing for the laundry situation . . . ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . the end

2011-10-31T06:00:00.001-05:00

Well, it's not really "the end." Every day we're always intentional about something. I realized the other night, while doing bath time for my boys how relaxed and unhurried I was. I thought about how the main reason behind my leisurely attitude was the fact I wasn't in my own home. We were at Josh's parents' home, and while I oversaw bath time, his mom washed the supper dishes.

Too often routines become a sprint to the finish line (bedtime).

I run to-do lists in my head . . .

Supper.

Clean up table.

Dishes.

Vacuum dining room.

All the while shooing children off to get showers or baths taken.

Sometimes I miss out on simple pleasures because my brain just gets too crowded up.

I realize sometimes that just can't be helped. But every day we are intentional in the choices we make--and too many choices get made without much thought. There are times we need to pull back a bit from the routine of life and really think about what is important. That's been on my mind a lot lately. People throw out the argument of whether children need quality time or a quantity of time.

The truth is they need both.

“Wherever you are, be all there!" a man named Jim Elliot once said. And in an age where our electronic devices make it easier than ever to be "there" but not "there" I think it's scary the amount of kids raised by parents who just aren't "there." I can't count how many times I've been at a park and watched a mom absentmindedly pushing her toddler in a swing all the while scrolling through face.book on her phone.

Be there.

Look them in the eyes.

Really laugh with them.

I know, even though I'm not at that stage yet, it is all going to be over way too soon.

And those are my thoughts after attempting a 31 day posting streak (won't be doing THAT again!). I decided I'm not able to be witty that many days in a row. It's quite taxing. (And probably as the month dwindled to an end, rather boring!). ;o) Now, to usher in November, work on our "Thanks and Giving" Tree (more on that when I figure it out . . .), and enjoy a bit of blog quiet. ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Sock-Bun Curls

2011-10-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

The girls and I have developed a new Saturday night routine this month,

first showers, and then I sit around with a pile of mismatched socks, rolling their hair and tying the socks in place. They might look silly, and a bit rag-dollish--

But it produces the most awesome and long-lasting of curls--a huge plus when your hair is stick straight!

I do a tiny bit of touch-up here and there with a curling iron, but overall it is one of the LEAST labor intensive hairstyles we've tried. It only takes about eight socks and five minutes! They sleep on them, and then we do a little bit of fluffing and hair-spraying in the morning. I remember my mom doing this to my sister and I (Lynsi has no recollection of this, but I'm pretty sure it happened). ;o)

Anyway, just a fun idea for some pretty hair!

Intentional Autumn . . . An Artist Trading Card Party

2011-10-29T13:42:00.001-05:00

Inspired by an idea in a recent Family Fun magazine, we decided to host an "artist trading card party" for Marissa's birthday. With Josh having a three-day weekend we decided to do it this weekend back at his parents' house with a few of the girls' closest friends (and it always works out so nice when you can invite sibling pairs!). ;o)

To start off the party we decorated binders with stickers, these binders would hold our plastic trading card protectors (think what you would use to organize a binder of baseball cards). Here are the girls with their decorated binders--

We then busied ourselves with markers, colored pencils, and stamp pads decorating works of art in the 2 1/2 by 3 1/2 inch range. I ordered a stack of artist trading cards from Amazon (link here) as well as the sheet protectors (link here). They would be fairly easy to cut of cardstock and with a paper slicer too.

After we colored every single card available they traded works of art with friends--

I also had sent each girl a blank card in their invite to decorate specifically in honor of Marissa's birthday for her to display in her binder--

Then--of course--there were gifts . . . See that Cubs bag? We're a "Cardinals" family and one of Marissa's friends comes from a "Cubs" family. There's a lot of good-natured ribbing going on. Although, it really doesn't matter since we all know who the winners really are . . . right? ;o)

After a simple lunch of hot dogs and a few other things (apple cider and pumpkin cupcakes of course!) we sent the girls outside to run around and gather materials for a bonfire--

I'm not sure what they enjoyed more, the gathering part, or the actual fire, but whatever the case we had a wonderful time and couldn't have asked for more beautiful weather!

It was a fun party! Hopefully I sent the girls home with a new hobby to do as these months get colder and we're inside more. Most of these girls have become pen-pals with our move, and I'm thinking it will be fun to trade card through the mail too! In fact, I enjoyed it so much I may have to start my own binder, anybody else?? ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Connections

2011-10-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

I was thinking today, I really don't have much to say, we're back in Lincoln for the weekend, and as always, the days are packed with things to do.

A birthday dinner, birthday party, and a huge family gathering will be squeezed into these three days.

I realize that's what I love most about this time of year particularly as we head toward Thanksgiving and Christmas . . . gathering, and the people to gather with. There is a joy in visiting and eating and hanging out together--and I appreciate it even more now that we have moved. We have to work harder at those connections--plan ahead--but it is always worth it. If there is anything we find ourselves being more intentional about it is keeping our special relationships alive and thriving. The drive is always worth it.

Wishing you all a lovely weekend!

Intentional Autumn . . . Grandma's Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

This past June, Grandma's new pumpkin patch was completed, at the very end of their property.

It's quite the patch, all neatly fenced in to keep any deer with voracious appetites out.

The pumpkins got a bit of a late start, waiting for the fence to go up, but as of the first of October, they were still thriving--

And this past weekend we got to check out the harvest (and take a few home for ourselves!)

The "Long Island Cheese" seemed to do the best and be the most prolific--

Grandma planted over twenty different varieties (I think . . .)!

It wasn't the best pumpkin growing year do to the really hot July we had.

And a few plants dealt with an over drifting of Round-up.

But the storage room still had a nice variety--

Sadly, we think there was only one of the greenish-blue "Jarrahdale"

There is still a shelf that will hopefully ripen a bit more--

Grandpa has been teasing her to figure out exactly how much money went into growing each of these pumpkins. And we all laugh because some things are just better off not knowing. ;o)

I'm not sure there is anything quite as delightful as pumpkin plants, when it comes to gardening and all. And it makes me happy that I can live vicariously through my mother-in-law's patch. ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Road Trips

2011-10-26T06:00:00.002-05:00

A new fact of life for us that we are slowly adjusting to:

Nearly every time we hop in the van we have at the very minimum a half-hour drive ahead of us.

Or 40 minutes.

Or one hour.

Or three hours.

We've made it this far without a dvd player in the van, and honestly I still have no intention of getting one. We do however make use of our CD player!

We passed most of October enjoying Psalty . . . anybody remember that big blue singing songbook?

Turns out the records (that Josh listened to) and the cassettes (that I enjoyed) have all been converted to Cd's. Josh picked his favorite (#2) and I picked mine (#4). We have a friendly competition going about whose is better. Mine has Charity Churchmouse, so I think I win hands-down (and the girls would agree). ;o)

If you too have wonderful memories of Psalty you can visit the Psalty store here. I think my next purchase might be #3 . . . It's been a fun walk down memory-lane for both Josh and I!

Van rides also make great opportunities to pop in the Sparks memory verse Cd's or the girls' violin Cd's or a book on CD. I love that our van becomes a portable classroom! Sometimes, when things are getting a bit rowdy I pop in a CD of romantic (era, not the lovey-dovey kind!) piano music and that settles them down pretty good.

Things going on my list to get:

1. More Psalty

2. Diana Waring's History Revealed Cd's--she walks you through history from the beginning of time, and I'd love to own all the sets to reinforce everything we've been studying

3. The Jesus Storybook Bible-Every Story Whispers His Name --I've heard WONDERFUL things about this children's Bible, and the cool part, it comes with a read-aloud CD! Perfect!

4. And I've always been a fan of Cedarmont Kids--my kids are always more apt to sing-along when other kids are singing. Sadly all of my original Cd's have met their demise.

Good stuff to listen to is one way of "redeeming the time" for us. You can only play the alphabet game so many times, you know? ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Loving October

2011-10-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

October's Bright Blue Weather

by Helen Hunt Jackson

O suns and skies and clouds of June,
And flowers of June together,
Ye cannot rival for one hour
October's bright blue weather;

When loud the bumblebee makes haste,
Belated, thriftless vagrant,
And goldenrod is dying fast,
And lanes with grapes are fragrant;

When gentians roll their fingers tight
To save them for the morning,
And chestnuts fall from satin burrs
Without a sound of warning;

When on the ground red apples lie
In piles like jewels shining,
And redder still on old stone walls
Are leaves of woodbine twining;

When all the lovely wayside things
Their white-winged seeds are sowing,
And in the fields still green and fair,
Late aftermaths are growing;

When springs run low, and on the brooks,
In idle golden freighting,
Bright leaves sink noiseless in the hush
Of woods, for winter waiting;

When comrades seek sweet country haunts,
By twos and twos together,
And count like misers, hour by hour,
October's bright blue weather.

O sun and skies and flowers of June,
Count all your boasts together,
Love loveth best of all the year
October's bright blue weather.

Intentional Autumn . . . A Weekend Documented

2011-10-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

So, where are we? Like on "Day 24" of trying to thinking of something to say for 31 days in a row? I'm starting to run out of steam. ;o) But we had some beautiful weather this weekend, and while I had hoped to get a nice group shot of my kiddos--something kind of formal-ish that I could use for a Christmas card-- it didn't quite go as I had hoped. Quite abysmal really. I'm just not certain it is possible to get a decent picture of five active children. I did follow my kids around with a camera though, while they were busy doing the stuff that kids do, and ended up with a few favorites.

A bit of peek-a-boo around the tree

Going for a ride

"The tongue" which made its appearance in many a picture

Up a tree

A different tongue--note the missing section of hair?

I didn't do that.

A sweet moment between brothers, Jackson finding a "wish-blower" for Owen
~

A glasses-less Rissy--can anybody tell me how to photograph eyeglasses without getting an awful glare?

A sweet little Emmett

Owen delighting over a few acorns

Meeting my parents' new dog Lassie--the nicest and most natural looking picture I have of Jackson. That boy can make some goofy faces! ;o)

My point to this post? Go take some pictures! Before you know it there will be no light and it will be cold and you will be indoors--right now it's PERFECT!!!

(because fall is the best of all)

;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Cousin Lovin'

2011-10-23T06:00:00.002-05:00

We're back in Lincoln for the weekend and doing a bit of this--

It was nice to officially get my hands on my new niece, and marvel at how little she is and how I always forget they start so small, admire her long fingers and decide she will be an excellent pianist, delight over her round wee belly, and see Owen's reaction to someone so small (he loved her . . . a bit too much . . . and he has an amazingly strong grip). ;o) But I'll be the first to admit, holding newborns is dangerous stuff, and I wonder will there ever be a point in my life where I'll not want another one right then and there? Or is that just the destiny of an aging woman?

Whatever the case, we were delighted to meet Miss Addisyn and are looking forward to watching her grow and change. And hopefully, she'll supply that "baby fix" for us all. ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . An Adorable Book

2011-10-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

If you read my blog I'm certain I've mentioned this book before and how cute I think it is--

The little felt finger puppet owl, the cut out pages, it truly is a favorite with all ages in our family!

For my sister's new little "pumpkin" we found this similar one--

Equally adorable with a little felt mouse finger puppet crawling his way through pumpkins and leaves and acorns and other delightfully fall-looking pages. I want to keep it for myself. ;o)

The story line in both of these books is fairly simple (and similar), but I don't really like them because of the story. I like the illustrations and I like the puppet. In my opinion, they make excellent baby/toddler gifts!

Intentional Autumn . . . Favorite Soups!

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

Once September hits, the menu begins to change a bit. More baking, less grilling, and a little something I like to call "Soup-er Saturday!!!" finds it way back into our week. I really like soup! To me, it is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. And throw in some home-baked bread goodness, whether it be a bread bowl or a roll or a cornbread or a fresh loaf of "something" you have utter perfection on the meal-front. ;o)

So, a few of our favorites--

Chili (what I like to refer to as my "five-can" chili, or maybe "lazy" chili) ;o) but my kids LOVE it and would eat it every day for lunch if they could!)

--Around a pound of ground beef, browned (I keep already cooked ground beef frozen in one pound increments in my freezer AT ALL TIMES, it makes life so much easier!)

--Large can of either crushed or pureed tomatoes

--Can of Busch's "Honey" flavored baked beans (not the small can, but the tall one)

--Two cans of Busch's medium flavored chili beans

--Can of Rotel Tomatoes

Cook over medium heat on the stove or toss it all in the crock pot. Serve with shredded cheddar and crushed tortilla chips. It's a little bit spicy and a little bit sweet. It isn't too bad mixed with melted Velveeta as a variation on the infamous Velveeta dip either. It's good in a bread bowl. It's good over a hot dog . . . really, quite versatile! ;o)

Baked Potato Soup

4 lg. potatoes

2/3 c. butter

2/3 c. flour

6 c. milk

3/4 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

4 green onions, chopped

12 slices bacon, cooked/crumbled

1 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese

8 oz. sour cream

Wash potatoes and prick with a fork. Bake at 400 degrees for one hour or until done (or use your microwave method). Let cool. Cut lengthwise, scoop out pulp. Loosely break up any large pieces into smaller chunks. Set aside, discard skins. Melt butter over low heat, add flour, stirring until smooth. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thick and bubbly. Add potato pulp, salt, pepper, 2 T. of chopped green onions, 1/2 c. bacon and 1 c. of cheese. Cook until thoroughly heated. Stir in sour cream. Add extra milk if necessary so soup is desired consistency. Serve remaining onions, bacon, and cheddar cheese on the side as toppings. I usually don't put any green onions in the soup because Josh doesn't like them, but just use them as a topping. And word or warning, there is never enough bacon. ;o)

Creamy Tomato Soup

(What I like to call "grown-up tomato soup" . . . I love it, Josh would agree it has good flavor but is not a fan of the tomato or onion "chunks." Usually, I make a batch for myself and eat it for lunch all week long. It would probably be really good with some cheese tortellini thrown in, but I've never done that).

1 med. onion, chopped

2 T. butter

2 cans (14 1/2 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained

2 cans (10 3/4 oz each) tomato soup, undiluted

1 1/2 c. milk (or a can of evaporated milk)

1 tsp. sugar

1 tsp. dried basil

1/4-1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper (to your taste)

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

1 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed

In a sauce pan, saute' onion in butter until tender. Stir in tomatoes, soup, milk, sugar, basil, cayenne, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in cream cheese until melted, serve immediately.

And a few more to link up--

Cheeseburger Soup--my mom and I have been making this ever since it appeared in Taste of Home for the first time. It is awesome.

Chunky Taco Soup-- technically my soup isn't so "chunky" because I use ground beef instead of cubes of steak, but I still like the flavor. We serve it with shredded cheddar, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips.

Copy-cat Chili's Chicken Enchilada Soup--Josh's absolute favorite. Did you know he was a waiter at Chili's when we were dating and very part-time during our first year of marriage? Lots of cheap dates there . . . and we had this often! ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Fall-themed Meal

2011-10-20T06:00:00.001-05:00

I bought my muffin tins two years ago, envisioning fun and festive meals on a weekly basis.

Suffice to say, that has NOT happened. ;o)

We have used them, just not nearly as often as I thought we would (although they do make handy trays for eating in the vehicle). The kids LOVE when I pull off a themed meal for them. Both of my boys recall with fondness the car I made out of a pear (and that was two years ago!). So, we broke out the muffin tins again--

Back row: an orange with a celery stem (it's a pumpkin)

Greek yogurt with a few fall-colored sprinkles on top

Acorns--half a mini nutter butter stuck to a Hershey's Kiss with a peanut butter chip stem (the favorite by far)

Front Row: PB and J cut out like a leaf

"Fall Mix" (craisins, pretzels, cheese-its, a few candy corn)

another PB and J

Fun memories. But for the record I ended up with FOUR loads of dishes yesterday . . . not exactly the way to spend one's birthday. Thankfully I am officially caught up (until lunchtime anyway). ;o)

Happy 10th Marissa Grace!!!

2011-10-19T07:09:00.000-05:00

One--

~ a carrot cake shaped like a pumpkin with leaf shaped sugar cookies~

*****

Two--

~a caramel apple cake, your double black eyes almost faded~

*****

Three--

~another caramel apple cake enjoyed by a flapper girl who minutes later was a ladybug~

*****

Four--

~a maple pumpkin torte eaten by Tinker Bell and her costumed posse'~

*****

Five--

~another maple pumpkin torte, note the shorn-off bangs~

*****

Six--

~some sort of "fudgy pudgy" chocolate cake that leaned terribly~
*****
Seven--

~revisiting the carrot cake shaped like a pumpkin dressed as Cinderella of course~
*****
Eight--

~pumpkin pie and a toothless grin and tricky candles that weren't~
*****
Nine--

~layered to look like candy corn, a young lady beginning to emerge~

*****

And now for ten!!!

(which will be a cheesecake with salted caramel sauce, just as soon as I get it done) ;o)

In some ways I think "Ten, that's it? Haven't you been part of my life forever??" And the other part of me thinks, "Ten, how did this happen, aren't you still five??"

I love you because--

you have always been my sunshine

of your giggle

your love of blue like me and yellow because "it just looks so happy"

of your memory that borders on photographic

I have to tell you every three minutes to "put the book down" so we can complete a project

because you say things like "I can feel my gastroesophageal sphincter opening!"

of your incessant whistling that drives me crazy

because I give you the option to choose and you try to pick the thing that will make the most people happy

your hope that people think you weird

you asked for a bow and arrow for your birthday

you write awesome stories about crazy stuff

and just for probably a million other reasons!

I have loved every single step of this "raising you" journey. You are a joy!!! I wish I could keep doing these ten years over and over and over ad infinitum. We both know turning ten is big stuff, on one side childhood and on the other the growing up. And we're both a bit sad about that. But I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the glimpses of young lady I see in you and I am so very proud of you!

Happy, happy 10th sweet girl, I hope you find this day extra special!!!

(big smooches) ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Movie Night!!

2011-10-18T06:00:00.001-05:00

While I realize in most parts of the country, the Smurfs are old news, the oldest four got to have a movie night with Daddy last night. Arapahoe has a small theatre--3D screen and all--and shows movies just a bit behind everyone else. The very best part? Josh and four kids got into a 3D movie for $4. No joking. ;o) Monday nights are $1 movie nights, and kids not in school yet are free. And a huge tub of popcorn? $1.50. He did spring for $0.10 a cup water and $0.15 a piece "lollies" (suckers). Small-town living definitely has a few perks. ;o) We would have gone broke attempting such a feat in Lincoln! (which is why we never did) ;o) The kids came home all giggling and happy--sounds like it was cute--and I enjoyed some quiet time and snuggles with my littlest fellow. It's safe to say a good night was had by all--and for a good price too!

Intentional Autumn . . . Astronomy!

2011-10-17T07:00:00.001-05:00

To begin with, no, this is not our telescope (although Josh wishes it were).

He learned that the ESU in Holdrege has a telescope they loan out to teachers, and since he has hopes of doing an astronomy unit with some of his students come spring, he thought he had better bring it home and start figuring out how to use it. (FYI Josh loves astronomy).

He has taken the kids to viewings . . . woken us up in the middle of the night to watch lunar eclipses . . . so we all have a bit of knowledge. Emmett's pretty good at spotting satellites (I kind of stare up at the sky all squinty trying to figure out what he's pointing to).

Josh located Jupiter for us the other night (or maybe is was Saturn?). To be honest it looked like a big star to me. ;o) Later, after we had all gone to bed he really started figuring the telescope out and learning how to focus it better, so I'm sure we have more nights of star gazing ahead of us.

The kids love it! It's another spectacular part of God's creation to appreciate--one I know hardly anything about--but thankfully they have a daddy for that. ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Contentment

2011-10-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

"Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not;

But remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for."

I happened upon this quote a few weeks ago, and it's been rolling around in my mind ever since. It seems the last five or six years of my life have dealt with situations or circumstances where we would think, "If we can just get beyond this, it'll get better, once this is over . . ."

And truthfully, I've been applying the same mantra to our most recent move . . . if I can just stick it our for awhile, put in my time, hopefully we'll get back to the area I really want to live in . . .

I forget, the place we're at now we spent THREE YEARS working toward!

Three years of crazy schedules, teeny tiny income, of Josh never home--it was just life.

In the midst of it you acclimate yourself and do it because it's just how it has to be done.

Now, I've had a bit of breathing room.

Josh leaves around 7:30 in the morning, pops in for lunch at 12:30, and then is home every day at 4:00. We go places TOGETHER like to the park or the drugstore for an old-fashioned soda. We eat supper as a family. A peacefulness has settled upon our life.

I'm reminded that sometimes the things we hope for--the things we dream about--come wrapped up all different than we expect. The pace of life we're living right now is one we had longed for and it's good and slow and lovely.

It's not perfect, but it's now.

Intentional Autumn . . . Get Messy!

2011-10-15T06:53:00.000-05:00

Because sometimes patchy yards and gravel driveways really are the most fun . . .

Embrace it. ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Play-dough!

2011-10-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

We had some fun with this!

I dyed some "cellentani" noodles using rubbing alcohol and green food coloring (no real recipe there, just dump some rubbing alcohol in a bowl, make it a nice green shade and then let your noodles soak for five minutes or so). They have a nice twisty shape, perfect for pumpkins stems! We then made some play-dough, making it smell good with orange and almond extracts as well as some cinnamon.

The boys enjoyed themselves immensely. Play-dough is always magic around here. ;o)

(And yes, I must once again credit Pinterest for giving me the idea . . . there's nothing original around these parts, just a whole lot of copying . . .) ;o)

My New Niece!

2011-10-13T13:54:00.001-05:00

Meet Miss Addisyn Claire!

She was born smack dab on her due date at 6:20 this morning,

weighing in at 7 lbs 9 oz.

My sister and I, we hug that due date quite close, and all of our babies have been born within a day or two or right on the expected day. Except Emmett . . . he only came early because Josh was in California. ;o)

From the picture I can tell she resembles her sisters and brother.

I have to say the distance of three hours today feels like FOREVER and I so wish I was there right now oohing and awing over tiny and perfect features. I've got just over a week until I can get my hands (and camera!) on her.

Don't grow too fast Addi-girl! ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Girly Fun

2011-10-13T06:43:00.000-05:00

Armed with a few bottles of $0.94 nail polish and about half an hour of free time I was able to transform my girls' nails into little bits of candy corn art . . .

It's far from perfect . . . I was "free-handing" it, but a coat of glitter over all is quite forgiving.

Looks almost good enough to eat. ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Glue Line Pumpkins

2011-10-12T06:00:00.006-05:00

This art project was another idea "pinned" on Pinterest, but the original source would be here.

The idea is to draw your picture with Elmer's glue, outline it in permanent marker and then watercolor over it all. The glue repels the paint giving it a cool effect. I let the girls draw their own pumpkin shapes, but didn't even let the boys give it a try. I had a feeling it might be too hard and a certain middlest (spell check isn't recognizing that word, but it's a real one as far as I'm concerned) child might end up utterly frustrated, so we just skipped that step and I designed the boys' pictures. ;o) The painting is the fun part anyway!

Marissa's--

Isabella's--

(she must share my love for specialty pumpkins) ;o)

Jackson's--

Emmett's--

Owen's

(he may have used more water than paint, noting the "scrubbed" texture)

Fairly simple and lots of fun!

(And just for the record I have picked this day as the day my sister will have her baby--she's due tomorrow and has never been late before, so I'm hoping . . . although the 19th would be just as awesome as far as I'm concerned . . . but she would probably kill me for thinking such a thought!) ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Book Basket (Part 2)

2011-10-11T06:00:00.001-05:00

Admittedly, I have a rather long list of fall favorites, and so continuing on from last week . . .

Big, bright colorful pages full of pictures made with leaves--a great jumping off place to go out and make your own leaf pictures.

A sweet little story for the younger crowd.

Specifically read "Squirrel Nutkin" we LOVE this story! If you only buy one book out of all my suggestions, please get yourself Potter's complete set!! Every home with children should have these stories--we all love them, although Jackson may love them the best. ;o)

A cute little adventure story about some acorn children (this listing is for the mini edition, but if you want a copy, I'd poke around Amazon and spend a few dollars more for the full-sized one).

This isn't just a fall book, but covers the whole year, and how the farm changes month by month. I've always enjoyed books like this (similarly Tasha Tudor's A Time to Keep is another special one or Elsa Beskow's Around the Year).

I love how the leaves are explained so that kids can identify them!

I love the artwork, and I love acrostic poems, so I love this book (and all the other season books he has done!).

And of course, there are others, but I've gone through the books we either own or I would own if my book budget was endless! ;o) I intentionally try to stay away from "Halloween stuff", we just don't do witches/monsters/ghosts/etc. here. There seems to be enough to celebrate in the natural world and I don't want to take away from that.

Happy reading! ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . A Nature Walk

2011-10-10T06:00:00.001-05:00

Last week, under the recommendation of the girls' violin teacher we explored a new park in Kearney, Cotton Mill Park, and LOVED it! It is full of nature trails, a lake, picnic and play areas, and during the summer time, a nature barn. I was so excited to find a place like this.

We enjoyed the fall sights, like lots and lots of woolly bear caterpillars--

Monarch butterflies fueling up for migration--

That special glow a setting autumn sun has--

Kids setting off down a new path--

And pausing for a large grasshopper laying eggs--

Good times. ;o)

And definitely my FAVORITE time of year to be out enjoying the creation with my family--you just never know what you're going to find!

Intentional Autumn . . . Watch a Sunset

2011-10-09T06:00:00.001-05:00

Yesterday (and the night before) we had a big storm roll through.

Thunder, lightning, and lots of rain--lots of puddles too!

It was the first rain we experienced in our new surroundings.

Large clouds still remained into the evening, and as the sun went down the sky was glorious.

The kids and I ran out into the backyard, me snapping pictures, amazed at how the glow of the sun was reflecting off the clouds.

And then we returned into the house. In a few minutes we noticed how much it had changed--

And yet again--

It was really quite shocking what a difference we saw in 20 minutes time!

I'm amazed at the gifts God gives us when we just take the time to notice.

And I'm thankful for the people I get to notice things with, they're a special bunch.

Intentional Autumn . . . Hand Sewing

2011-10-08T06:00:00.001-05:00

I spent some time these last few days working on these:

A pair of "harvest booties" for a certain niece who should be making her appearance any day now.

Seeing as she'll be sharing a birthday month with her fabulous aunt and oldest girl cousin I thought it fitting we get her started on the right path, dressing her little tootsies in pumpkins. ;o)

I used this pattern, and then perused Etsy for some ideas to adorn them, doing my best to mimic these (sans bow).

It was definitely a fun project, although attaching the upper to the sole was a teeny bit tricky . . . if you can imagine trying to sew a decorative stitch around a porcupine (think lots of pins!!). ;o)

I'm happy I got them done. Hand sewing/embroidering is always so relaxing--every time I do it I wonder why I don't do it more.

Hopefully they'll arrive in my sister's mailbox today!

And hopefully not too much longer until they are on some brand-new feet!! ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Setting up a Bird Feeder

2011-10-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

It has long been a goal of mine to have a bird feeding station. We now have a great spot for one!

Our trip back to Lincoln this past weekend included a stop at Menards for:

A bird feeder (complete with a suet holder on each side)

A bag of black oil sunflower seeds

Two packages of suet

A shepherd's hook to hang the feeder on (with room for another at some point)

Josh and I left the parking lot rather giddy (I guess he's always wanted one too!). And we laughed at ourselves because while we may be the last people on this planet to own a flat-screen television, an ipod, a bluray or whatever else it is we are lacking, we are QUITE thrilled to have acquired a bird feeder. ;o)

(Um, yes, my home really is THAT blue . . . it was tan when I first saw it and they said it needed a repainting. I assumed it would be some sort of similar neutral shade. I was quite surprised to see the blue on moving-in day. ;o) They haven't started the trim yet. I was thinking a nice creamy white might pull it all together, but I guess they're going with a dark blue . . . ?)

We are now on "bird watch" waiting and wishing and willing birds to find our feeder. I think it will be so fun this winter to be doing school at our dining room table while watching our feathered friends feasting through the window!

A great book that is full of all kinds of wonderful ideas is this one:

It has ideas for making your own feeders, setting up feeding stations, what seeds to provide for certain birds, plants to add to your landscape, and much more. I highly recommend it if you want to plan something similar for you own yard.

Bring on the birdies!! ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Cooking with PUMPKIN!!!

2011-10-06T06:00:00.003-05:00

A few of our most favorite pumpkin recipes . . .

~Frosted Pumpkin Cranberry Bars . . . recipe found here. To be honest I've never put the cranberries in (even though I love cranberry too, and I'm sure it would be a good mix), but they are really good plain. The recipe can be baked in a 9x13 pan if you want a thicker bar, and you can half the frosting recipe if you do that.

~Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting . . . recipe found here. I love the cinnamon cream cheese frosting!

~Maple Pumpkin Torte . . . recipe found here. It's been awhile since I've made this one, but we've used it to celebrate October birthdays before. You can't go wrong with maple flavoring. ;o)

~Coconut Pumpkin Bread . . . recipe found here. I got this recipe from my sister, and it combines not only my love of pumpkin but my love of coconut as well. I can't remember if when I made this I subbed in melted butter instead of the canola oil, but I do that in almost all my recipes with fine results.

~Pumpkin Pancakes . . . recipe found here. What's fun about these is the apple cider syrup (you can use honey instead of corn syrup if you prefer). You can't find a better fall breakfast! ;o)

And then there are the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes we made today! They weren't too shabby themselves (but when does real whipped cream steer you wrong??). I didn't have any instant espresso powder so I used a bit of instant coffee (covering my ears at all the coffee-lovers simultaneously groaning) that I keep on hand for baking purposes. And I have a whole bunch of new pumpkin recipes pinned on my Pinterest "Food" board to try (look for the "pinterest" button over on my right sidebar).

So, now do you see why my husband bought me a case of pumpkin last year? I'm still making my way through it, and because of it there was no pumpkin-shortage-crises to contend with this year. Those cans had a moving box all to themselves. ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . Fall Art Collage

2011-10-05T06:00:00.001-05:00

Marissa--

Isabella--

Jackson--

(Of course his is a pumpkin hiding behind a big pile of fall items with a harvest moon and harvest stars and the pumpkin may or may not be holding a gun, but we'll all pretend it is not . . .)

Emmett--

Owen--

(with some Mommy help) ;o)

This might just be my most favorite art project we've ever attempted--I LOVE how they turned out!

The idea came from here.

We broke the process up over several days. The first day we painted using water color paper and a variety of acrylics I had on hand. We attempted some color blending and some texturing. Owen was over-the-moon-thrilled to be allowed access to the paint.

;o)

On another day we cut out shapes, pumpkins, stems, leaves, corn, acorns, etc. I did most of this, with a bit of help from the girls. And on yet another day we glued everything on and let it all dry. Our black background paper is just poster board cut in half. Finally, yesterday we used a set of metallic paints (Hobby Lobby, 40% off coupon . . . never buy art supplies full price) ;o) to embellish and add some sparkly details. It sounds like a long process, but breaking it up into smaller bit makes it much more doable for me. Thankfully, we have a large unfinished basement to carry on all these shenanigans (Because Owen wandered down with the others today, pulled some cranberry paint off the tall table and then set to work finger-painting the kids' table . . . I forgot how dangerous it is to teach a toddler something new). ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . An Autumn Book Basket

2011-10-04T08:45:00.000-05:00

With every season change comes a new batch of books, some pulled from library shelves and others thoughtfully purchased to add to a growing seasonal collection. Confession . . . the fall ones?? They're my favorite. ;o)
If you consider yourself a book ~~hoarder~~ collector you most likely have shelves that hold all those wonderful books. Those shelves of books are overwhelming to a kid and will either:

1. Be dumped in their entirety
2. Be completely ignored
(at least that has been the case at our home) ;o)

I've found the books we want to focus on for the time-being need a stage. We're going on three years of using the shelf Josh built me for a library book display. These books are easy to access and they get looked at!

And then there is the actual "book basket" housing the fall books we actually own.

If you're looking to expand your own personal library here are a few that we have enjoyed:

A sweet story about a fox who is concerned about his tree losing all of its leaves--a lovely sparkly surprise at the end.
~

Fun rhyming book carrying you from the beginning of fall to the end. I had to buy mine used from Better World Books (hardcover, free shipping, $4 . . . a really good deal!).

A simple counting book, but really I love it just for the pictures.

A favorite of a few tractor-loving boys of mine. And they actually call the tractor parts by their proper names! (important when you've been farm-raised) ;o)

It's more of a later fall book, but I love the descriptions of the earth quieting down.

Love the vivid (real) pictures that fill the book.

That's really just the beginning. ;o) I have a lot of fall favorite! If you know of a special one, feel free to leave the name in the comments--I'm always looking for more! ;o)

Tommy Dog

2011-10-03T21:31:00.002-05:00

I had a late call tonight from my dad, one of those calls that you just have a feeling is going to be bad news.

Their big huge teddy bear of a dog "Tom Sawyer" but more affectionately known as "Tommy" was hit by a vehicle tonight. One that didn't even bother to stop. :o(

They're pretty sure his death was instantaneous, so we are glad he didn't suffer.

I am so sad to have to tell my kids tomorrow morning--but glad we were down there playing with him just this past Saturday.

I know it is going to be hard on all of them, but especially my little animal lover Emmett.

He's loved Tommy from the beginning.

We've never had our own dog, but he was the closest one my kids have had.

I was laughing at Emmett on Saturday, just loving him all over, laying on him like a bed, and that dog just patiently sitting there. I wish I had that last picture.

Be praying for their little hearts, I think we have a rough day ahead.

Intentional Autumn . . . Our Nature Corner

2011-10-03T09:07:00.001-05:00

I've finally found a good spot for a family nature display! A year (ish) ago I had seen Ann Voskamp of A Holy Experience use an old printer's drawer (or two!) as a way of organizing all the little nature bits her children would find. I thought it was a wonderful idea and began the search for my own old printer's drawer. It wasn't too long before I happened upon one on craigslist for $15. It ended up in the bathroom at our previous home--not getting used what I had hoped for.

But in the new home there just so happens to be a perfect place to shove a dresser, right at the edge of the kitchen cabinets, so it kind of joins us in the dining room. Not only do the drawers of said dresser give me extra storage for my cookbooks and homeschooling stuff, but the top is perfect to prop up my printer's drawer. (And just in case you are wondering why it is called a printer's drawer, back in the pre-computer days, they had to set their own type, and these drawers organized all the letter "stamps").

Here's the whole set-up:

This little gathering definitely reflects the current season, and that's part of what makes it fun! It is something that is ever-changing as we come across wonderful little bits outside

Up close of the goodies:

I love the patina of the old wood and ink stains--It is just perfect for us!

We started with one monarch wing, one of the first things we found outside after our move. We now have acorns, walnuts (those discolored green things--they're not totally ripe yet), feathers (our prized find, a peacock feather!), leaves, a tiny ear of corn, some pumpkins . . . all sorts of fun stuff! I made a tiny little banner out of some card stock and embroidery floss proclaiming "NATURE" and found the fun fall printable (in a variety of colors if you need one to match your decor!) here.

This has become a favorite spot in our house. We all love to admire our growing collection and it helps growing awe in the amazing and creative Creator of it all!

(Need a printer's drawer of your own? There are bunches on Ebay. They are often called shadow boxes and people use them for displaying collections of small items. I have no idea what shipping would be on one of these things though). ;o)

Intentional Autumn . . . A Blessing Book

2011-10-02T06:00:00.007-05:00

Each Sunday this October I want to focus on gratitude and cultivating grateful hearts in kids. It is not only a well-timed exercise as we approach November, the "thankful month," but a practice that we need to be working on year-round. Gifting children with a legacy of seeing eyes--eyes fully aware of all the grace around us--ranks right near the top of my list.

One of the ways I hope to do this is with a family Blessing Book, a little spot to write down, sketch a drawing, or stick a photograph of things we are thankful for throughout the day. The beauty in this books lies in the fact it will be a family effort, each page having contributions from each (or most!) of us. I love seeing the variety of handwriting and scribbles on a page!

Our Blessing Book is a simple sketchbook from Hobby Lobby (bought with a 40% off coupon of course!). ;o) It will be available for the kids to doodle in throughout the day and will join us at bedtime prayers each evening. It's a simple book--truly nothing fancy about it--but I'm hoping it will be one small way of making us more mindful of all the God blesses us throughout a day.

Psalm 92:1,2

It is good to give thanks to the LORD,

And to sing praises to Thy name, O Most High;

To declare Thy lovingkindness in the morning

And Thy faithfulness by night

31 Days . . . an intentional autumn

2011-10-01T06:00:00.060-05:00

A few blogs that I enjoy have a "31 days" theme going on in October, where a subject is picked and posted on it for 31 days. This year it was opened up to other bloggers who might enjoy subjecting themselves to 31 days of posting. I mulled over the idea for a few weeks. Do I have anything to talk about for 31 straight days?? Anything worth reading?? (don't answer that) ;o)

Our move has left me a bit at loose ends. Getting myself organized with a project seems cathartic. Hence for an entire 31 days I will be posting on--

Which sounds kind of serious, but is really just me, planning seasonally appropriate activities for us to do and enjoy and then (drum roll . . . ) carrying them out! I have a (slight) idea-collecting hobby . . . and that pinterest, well, it's only adding fuel to my collecting fire! ;o) This October I'm going to put a lot of ideas into play. From nature to baking to crafting--it's a great time of year to make every day some sort of celebration. And that's the plan, each day of October I will have a project or recipe or *something* to share, and perhaps you'll find a wee bit of inspiration to do autumn a bit more intentionally in your home. Stay tuned . . . ;o)

All of my links:
Day One--you're here!
Day Two
Day Three
Day Four
Day Five
Day Six
Day Seven
Day Eight
Day Nine
Day Ten
Day Eleven
Day Twelve
Day Thirteen
Day Fourteen
Day Fifteen
Day Sixteen
Day Seventeen
Day Eighteen
Day Nineteen
Day Twenty
Day Twenty-One
Day Twenty-Two
Day Twenty-Three
Day Twenty-Four
Day Twenty-Five
Day Twenty-Six
Day Twenty-Seven
Day Twenty-Eight
Day Twenty-Nine
Day Thirty
Day Thirty-One
Head here to check out the link-ups for all the other bloggers! (All of which seem to be able to make a "button" a whole lot better than I!) ;o)

Around the house

2011-09-24T13:41:00.000-05:00

A shoe pile by the door, always--

Two boys who collaborate on drawings, this one of robots, but often of race cars and raceways, airplanes and explosions, you know, typical boy stuff--

Celebrating the first day of fall with our traditional breakfast, apple cider donuts and apple cider--

Loving this hilarious little fellow--

Free entertainment out the dining room window--

We're figuring out our new rhythms, slowly, but surely.

~running~

2011-09-20T08:27:00.000-05:00

the mingling of sunshine, sweat, and a warm September day

smell the same at thirty-one as they did at seventeen

my feet crunch gravel in a familiar rhythm
for a moment

I'm taken back to country roads of yesterday

and long runs with sister and brothers

a whiff of lavender and fresh peeled potato

the whistling of wind on one side but not the other

the attentive caution of looking both ways again and again

because the sounds come at me confusing

bring me back

remind me I'm thirty-one

and blessed

(You all think poetically while exercising, right? Good, because Josh thought I was being weird again) ;o)

Moving On

2011-09-19T14:25:00.000-05:00

Today is the beginning of week three post-move. We found ourselves back at school this morning and for the most part it was good to be back in that routine. Jackson's kindergarten "lesson" involved him spending two hours working on a small Lego semi . . . and while maybe I should have cracked open the books, how crazy would I have been to interrupt such intense concentration? ;o)

So, the whole moving thing? I'd like to tell you all I have sailed through this little life change quite breezily. Truth is, it has probably been the hardest on me. I told Josh yesterday I was now two days without crying. He looked at me as if I had sprouted two heads, "You've been crying every day??!" he asked incredulously.

"Oh yes," I replied, "In fact, several times throughout the day."

"I'm glad I wasn't there to see it!" he exclaimed, compassionate and caring person that he is. ;o) While I might err on the side of feeling too much, he would (of course) be on the opposite end of the spectrum. Anymore I find this amusing how completely opposite we are (wasn't quite so funny those first few years of marriage . . .). ;o)

And go me, but I just might make it through today tear-free too! I have no idea if two weeks of crying is a normal way to adjust to one's new surroundings, but I guess that's how I do things. Even though I told my silly self that it's "just three hours" the truth is everything has changed. My routines, the places I visit, my knowledge of where everything is located in stores . . . it's all different now. I have stumbled through each day all thick-headed and clumsy-like, lacking greatly the smoothness and efficiency I enjoyed in the familiar surroundings of Lincoln. And I have missed. If I know you, I miss you. I have missed serving in the orchestra at church, missed the "orchestra people," I have missed the predictability of the school year schedule and all the activities we would be doing but can't. I have missed my Wednesday evening kid drop-off at my in-laws . . . after nearly ten years of doing so! Ten years of leisurely chatting about life and gardening and recipes and decorating with my mom-in-law--oh how I miss that! I miss the ability to decide something on a whim . . . a visit to my parents, a morning of playing with my sister's kids. I miss it all! That's not been easy.

But I like to think I may have turned a corner? After a few weeks of curling up in fetal position and bawling my eyes out and telling myself, "Your blog is called "A Steadfast Life" not "An Unstable Life!!!" I think I have re-emerged from that fog. (I didn't REALLY curl up in fetal position . . . well, maybe once . . .). ;o) I'm starting to figure this new life out, and that is definitely a good feeling. Especially since my favorite season is upon us and the crying was really putting a damper on the fall celebrating. I think some apple cider donuts are in order! And perhaps a few other things with "apple" or "pumpkin" in the title . . . ;o) Life goes on . . . thank you to my praying friends/family, you probably have no idea how your prayers carried me through these last two weeks of what we'll call "adjusting." ;o)

A Picture Catch-Up

2011-09-17T08:18:00.000-05:00

I'm a bit behind in photo uploading. I had a few from the old camera (which I had brought to the state fair . . . and it's the one Isabella grabs when she feels the need to document something) and also pics from the new camera. A few snapshots of what we've been up to these last two weeks:

Emmett the lover of all creatures great and small

Owen and his big ice cream cone

Owen's way of keeping himself entertained for a good 20 minutes or so, complete with him walking around and bumping into things. Remember Psalty? Yeah, that's what he reminded me of.

A night of harvest moon chasing and apple cider drinking

Lots of track building by the biggest brothers . . . and unfortunately lots of destruction from the smallest one equals lots of "teachable" moments.

And here's me blind stitching the bottom of the next set of curtains with an Owen helper (as photographed by Isabella). He seems to enjoy a front row seat to all I do. ;o) And yep, I totally broke out a turtle-neck yesterday. The sudden change of weather has left me a bit unprepared. We showed up to a cross country meet yesterday with the girls in flip-flops. I need to get some shoe shopping done for both of them.

There are no major plans for today, perhaps a bit of "master" bedroom maneuvering (Josh and I took the smallest room to insure the kids had ample play space in their rooms) and well, things are cozy in there. We might see if we can come up with a better arrangement. Josh has a few plumbing projects to attend to and I have a few small sewing projects on my agenda for a little niece who will be making her arrival in the next month. I must confess, researching cute baby projects is definitely a dangerous pastime as more than once my mind has wandered to "Maybe six . . .?"

At which point Josh covers his ears and hums loudly to himself.

Clearly the move has left me teetering on the edge of crazy. ;o)

Cinnamon Roll Recipe

2011-09-13T18:35:00.001-05:00

My mom and dad were able to stop in yesterday for lunch, after swinging up to Ainsworth to spend the weekend with my brother and his wife, they took a "scenic route" back home so they could stop by to visit us. We had chili and cinnamon rolls . . . perhaps a bit premature for a warm September day, but it felt good to do some fall-inspired cooking. ;o) My mom wanted my roll recipe, so I thought I would share it here (in the event you may be lacking a good cinnamon roll recipe). These rolls are super soft, and I am going to venture the reason why is the butter and whole milk, so don't skimp. ;o)

~Cinnamon Rolls~
2 cups warm whole milk (105-110 degrees)
2 (1/4 oz) packages of active dry yeast (or 4 1/2 tsp)
1/2 cup sugar, divided
7-8 cups of bread flour, divided
1 TBSP of salt (although I probably use 1-2 tsp)
1 cup melted butter
2 large eggs
1 cup packed dark brown sugar
(1 cup finely chopped pecans if you like)
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup butter, softened to easy spreading consistency

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1/4 cup of sugar; let stand for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium bowl, combine 5 cups bread flour, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine milk mixture, butter, and eggs. Gradually add flour mixture to milk mixture, beating until smooth after each addition. Beat in remaining flour to make a soft dough. (I probably end up using right around 7 1/2 cups of flour . . . and I don't have a stand mixer, so I use my little handheld with beaters until it gets too tough and then knead the rest by hand).
4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. Place dough in a slightly greased bowl, turning dough to grease top. Cover and let stand in a warm place. (I usually preheat my oven for a minute or two and then turn it off and stick the dough in there). Let rise for 1-1 1/2 hours. Punch it down; cover and let stand for 10 minutes.
5. Lightly grease 3 9-inch cake pans, set aside.
6. In a small bowl combine brown sugar and cinnamon (pecans if you are using them).
7. I spray my counter with cooking spray and spray my rolling pin and then roll out one enormous rectangle--somewhere in the vicinity of 12x30 inches. Spread butter all over it and then sprinkle with your sugar/cinnamon mixture. Roll up dough, starting at the long side, jelly-roll fashion, press edges to seal. I use dental floss to divide my dough into thirds (slide the floss under and bring the edges up and around to meet and slice the dough), and then each segment I get 8 rolls out of. Arrange 8 rolls per pan. Cover and let rise in a warm place for an hour or until rolls have doubled in size.
8. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake rolls for about 25 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool in pans for five minutes.

For frosting--
Either invert your rolls on a serving platter and frost them with "Cinnamon Cream Cheese Icing" (3 oz cream cheese, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1 cup confectioners' sugar, 3 TBSP whole milk) or keep them in the pan and drown them in the "Pioneer Woman's" frosting (which is what I do about 99% of the time--LOVE the flavor of the coffee and maple in the frosting). I can usually cut that recipe in half and have more than enough for my three pans of rolls. (You'll have to scroll all the way down that link to find the ingredient list for the frosting).

Enjoy!! ;o)

As the first week ends--

2011-09-11T15:09:00.000-05:00

Before time passes me by too quickly, I have to say how much my family and friends have blessed me during the moving process. I have been overwhelmed, again and again . . . gift cards to eat out, gift cards to Hobby Lobby, sweet house-warming presents to cozy up my home, fun activities/gift items for the kids to do, being taken out to eat, help scrubbing up my old kitchen, the hospitality of family, face.book notes to tell me I'm being prayed for, real handwritten notes arriving in the mail here--not to mention the help Josh got from guys helping him move as well as someone preparing a meal to feed all those guys. I have felt so loved. All of those sweet gestures have definitely helped cushion a heart that is a bit homesick and transition me from "there" to "here." Big (virtual) hugs to each of you--you know who you are. I miss your faces already.