Live, Laugh, Learn

And...We're Done!

2010-06-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

Three months, lots of noise, lots of dust, lots of choices and we are done with our remodel!

Our window coverings and the rest of the furniture went in late last week and Don built my bookcases over the weekend.

Here are some photos:

Here's a view of the living room. We repurposed our old furniture for budget sake. We think it turned out fine. We also reused the artwork over the couch. My family bought it for me for Mother's Day several years ago. I've always said that's the exact spot I want to live.

You can also see the custom benches under the bookcases that will serve as extra seating when we have extra guests.

Here's a close up of one of the benches. I really love the fabric! I'm looking for some small decorative items for the bottom shelves. That way they stay relatively open for anyone who wants to sit there with their laptop or for guests to set plates or drinks.

The dining room with window coverings!

The kitchen barstools. There are 5 and we've already tried them out by eating dinner there one night.

A closeup of one of the stools. The fabric on the backs is the same fabric on the panels in the dining room.

A view of the school area from the kitchen. I'm still considering a desk to put where the preschool table is currently. The Roman shade here matches the Roman shade on the dining room window.

Another view of the school area. Don built the bookcases for me. They are from IKEA. They are from the Liatorp line.

Here's the other one. Especially for my homeschooling friends, I took a photo with the cabinet doors open. :-) The top shelf has the start of my homeschool philosophy books. The second shelf is for Footloose's school books. The bottom shelf is history and reference books.

So far behind the cabinet doors...second shelf holds printer paper, notebook paper, ink and laminating sleeves. The bottom shelf just has empty notebooks.

The Kindergarten bookcase! Top shelf has the laminator. Second shelf has all of our Five in a Row books as well as Horizons K Math, Reading Made Easy and my Ruth Beechick Three R's series. Third shelf is math manipulatives. The bottom shelf has two kids' dictionaries and our science and art collections.

Inside the cabinet: Top shelf-the red box has jigsaw puzzles in ziploc bags and our wooden puzzles are next to the box. The wicker basket has our preschool bags from our exchange with the Five in A Row ladies.

The bottom shelf has craft supplies, more math stuff and file folder games.

Thank you for following us all this time. It was a long process but so worth it and we are very much enjoying our new space! A very special thanks to Matt and Greg from Haus Werks! They are truly the best and I can't wait to work with them again!

The Home Stretch!

2010-06-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

Upon returning home weary travelers from a 12 day, 7 state vacation, we were met at the curb by our contractors. They asked if we were ready and ushered us into our beautiful new space that they worked feverishly to finish while we were gone.

To say we were pleased would be an understatement! These guys do fabulous work! There are a few finishing details here and there such as the window treatments which will be delivered in the upcoming week. But the project is virtually done!

Although I admit that it was a challenge to live for three months without a kitchen and living space, I can't believe how quickly they managed to completely transform our home!

So, here we go with some "before and afters!"

This was the view from the front door:

Same spot:

The awful, ugly kitchen:

Same view:

Old laundry room:

Is now a pantry:

I hated this wall:

Now it's all opened up:

Old dining room:

New dining room:

I was nervous to get rid of the windows:

But am so happy with the results:

That's a start! I have more photos but I've been busy with vacation laundry, a graduation party and packing my kids up for a week long camp they are headed to tomorrow. I'll get more up later. :-)

Wildlife

2010-06-12T23:09:00.000-07:00

We made the drive from Jackson, WY to Yellowstone today. We went from our large condo to a little cabin. It's been tricky to find a place for all of our stuff!

Just a few miles before we entered Yellowstone, we saw the traffic begin to slow down. As we approached, we discovered why. A grizzly bear was snacking just several feet from the side of the road.

And, of course, there are bison everywhere. They don't even notice the people.

Here are my own "wildlife." Well, at least On the Loose can be considered wildlife. :-)

Hiking around the "Grand Canyon of Yellowstone" tomorrow!

A Wyoming Sunset

2010-06-11T15:54:00.001-07:00

The sunsetting over the Tetons from the patio of our condo in Jackson, Wyoming.

It took my breath away...

Grand Teton National Park

2010-06-09T19:18:00.000-07:00

I've been dreaming of visiting the Tetons for years! I'm always drawn to photographs, paintings, TV specials, etc. featuring them. They definitely do not disappoint!

Today we ventured into Grand Teton National Park. The views are incredible. I don't think words could begin to describe them!

Three of my very favorite people! The fourth was off taking some panoramic shots of his own.

After a very tasty lunch at the Jackson Lake Lodge, we took a short half mile walk on the property. Then we decided to try a longer hike and did the five mile round trip trek to Hidden Falls to see this.

The little guy did a great job on a long, up and down hike on a narrow trail covered in rocks and fallen trees!

Tonight we're planning on where we would like hike tomorrow. :-)

Vacation

2010-06-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

I'm taking a break from the remodel updates. It might have something to do with the fact that another hole was found in another pipe under the concrete! It was under the hallway which just had brand new hardwood flooring put in two weeks ago...hardwood flooring that was pulled up today and the concrete jacked up to replace the pipe. Don't ask how much it cost or I'll cry. :-)

So, instead of listening to a jackhammer all day long, I enjoyed a scenic drive through Utah, Wyoming, Utah, Wyoming, Idaho and Wyoming. We drove from Salt Lake City to Jackson, WY which took us right along the borders of the three aforementioned states.

Yesterday we woke up before dawn and drove 637 miles to Provo, UT. What a nice little town! This was the view from our hotel window:

This morning we left Provo and made the short drive up to Salt Lake City. We figured we couldn't be that close to a state capital and not visit. Homeschoolers! We turn everything into a field trip.

I think this was my favorite capital we've been to so far. The building looks majestic sitting on a hill downtown.

Here's where the Utah House of Representatives does its work:

As we read through some of the state history, it was apparent that the right of women to vote was a huge point of contention. Footloose and I were particularly perturbed by this quote on the wall:

We arrived in Jackson this afternoon. We checked in at Spring Creek Ranch. They assigned our room and it was very nice...EXCEPT...Footloose shrieked and said, "There's a chipmunk on the bed."

I said, "A fake one?"

She said, "NO! A real one!"

That freaked me out! I am not a lover of rodents! Turned Loose checked it out and he saw it scurry under one of the beds. I was not happy! My hero (aka Hubby) tore the room apart looking for it and couldn't find it. I just could not sleep in the room knowing said critter was there! If I wanted to sleep with wildlife, I would camp not pay for a fancy condo!

So, Don called the front desk and asked if we could be moved. Without hesitation they not only moved us but upgraded us! We ended up with a bigger room with a bigger view! Here's a photo of sunset from our patio:

Tomorrow, we're planning on going to Grand Teton National Park. Time to crack out our new hiking boots!

Lighting

2010-06-04T17:43:00.001-07:00

You know it's getting close when they start installing lighting!

My mom wants pictures every day so here you go, Mom! :-)

Here's a view into the dining room. The floor is almost done, too!

A closer view of the dining room fixture:

The backsplash:

I really like the pendant lights over the island!

It's really coming together isn't it?

Granite and flooring!

2010-06-01T18:08:00.001-07:00

Granite. A working kitchen sink. My life is definitely improving!

The guys promised granite last week while we were in San Diego and they delivered. They are also well on their way to getting the flooring done.

Here's the fireplace where you can see the new travertine tile on the hearth, the new TV mounted above and the start of the floor.

The monstrous island with its lovely granite. Can I tell you how great it was to come home from the grocery store today and place all of the bags on the kitchen counter!

Ahhhh...yes...the stovetop was also installed while I was gone.

If I could only find my cookware which is buried somewhere in the mess that is my garage, I would cook something!

We are so close to done and it's exciting! :D

Even More...

2010-05-23T11:56:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted pictures since last week but there wasn't as large of a transformation this week. Sure, lots of work got done but it wasn't as dramatic. It was mostly detail work.This week should bring some big changes. There is the chance that both the granite and wood floor will go in! Then I'll really have something to show you.

In the meantime...

Here you can see the rest of the hood and the panels on the fridge:

This is a close-up of one of the bookcases. You can see the new crown moulding:

And here's a full shot of the fireplace now. The new mantle, columns and crown really make a difference:

Here's to hoping for some granite this week! :-)

Bookcases!

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

I've dreamed of this moment! Floor to ceiling built ins on either side of my fireplace. Today was the day!

Here's how the fireplace used to look just 8 short weeks ago:

Here it is after the guys left today:

Here's a close up of the right side. The subwoofer (whatever that does) will be installed into the wall underneath.

Here's the left side. There is a drawer beneath the shelves. The open space below will house a custom bench on both sides for extra pull out seating when we have lots of guests.

I can hear my books calling to me from boxes in the garage! We're getting close!

We're getting there...

2010-05-13T20:20:00.000-07:00

Today saw a few more big progress points...the oven and microwave!

This is what you used to see as you stood at the hall doorway:

Here's the same view:

The template for the granite slab was created today. Here you can see the steel rods that were set to make the granite more stable. And notice the under cabinet lights. I love them!

The microwave!

And the new double oven! This was a non-negotiable for my new kitchen. I said I didn't care about anything else but I had to have a double oven!

I think the next step is to begin working on the bookcases flanking the fireplace!

More progress!

2010-05-12T18:04:00.000-07:00

It looks like a kitchen!

Here's a view from the office/school room area.

Looking over the island and out towards the living room. All of those stacked boxes will become the floor to ceiling built ins with the LED TV nicely mounted above the fireplace.

Here I'm standing in front of what will be the kitchen sink looking out into the living room.

The view from the living room into the kitchen.

Here's the view from the dining room. Remember that my laundry used to be right where that door is!

Tomorrow they are scheduled to set the double oven and, maybe, the fridge. The granite will also be measured for tomorrow. Can't wait!

I'm Giddy!

2010-05-10T18:27:00.000-07:00

Apparently I'm incapable of taking non-blurry pictures today. Or maybe it's my eyes since I've hardly slept the last three days. At any rate, here are some photos of today's progress!

The new French Door out to the backyard:

Look! Just look at those cabinets! I can almost see myself cooking on that stovetop...well...when the stovetop actually goes in.

Here's part of the island. On the right is a pull out drawer with two trash cans. On the left is a corner cabinet with a built in lazy susan.

Here's where the sink will be in the island. There are some narrow drawers to the left for towels, dishrags, etc. The empty space in between the two parts of the island is where the dishwasher will go.

And here's the "butler's pantry." Guess who the butler is? Me! :-) The microwave will be built into the empty space and there will be a granite countertop where I can put the toaster and coffee pot.

Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Can it be? Cabinets?

2010-05-06T10:13:00.001-07:00

The heavens have opened up and shined down upon my kitchen! I have seen a glimpse of the cabinets and breathed a contented sigh of relief.

Up until now there has been the promise of an eventual room where I can invite family and friends to share our lives. But, until now, I've just had to have faith that it will come into reality.

But yesterday...yesterday I saw the first signs of hope.

It took nearly two hours but the guys got my apparently very heavy refrigerator from the patio into the house. It was quite a process involving removing the sliding glass door but they were strong and creative and it's in the house. Right now it's sitting only a few feet from it's permanent home. The double wall oven is sitting next to it.

The majority of the cabinets are stacked in the living room or what will become the living room. The wires hanging down are where the in ceiling speakers will be.

And, here they are! My storage space has just quadrupled! Soon they will be set and I will be able to fill them with whatever I want!

A close up of the doors...

The new pantry! Isn't it just perfect? The upper cabinet closer to the door has vertical slats for storing cookie sheets, muffin tins, cutting boards, etc. The large empty space will hold the double oven with the open space above will be for display.

It was a good day! :-)

Starting to take shape!

2010-04-25T18:21:00.001-07:00

In the world of kitchen remodeling I think this project is moving along at a quick pace. When you're living without a kitchen sink and you have a 4 year old who claims he's 20 and doesn't have to listen to you because he's a "breaker" (eg someone who works on houses) and breakers don't have moms and wants to be in the middle of the action every moment of every day...well...it's slow going!

But, it is starting to take shape and this will be a milestone week! Drywall is going up! No more looking at open frame and insulation. Not that I have anything against 2 X 4's and pink cotton candy looking stuff.

On demo morning, I took a picture from this spot:

After demo was complete, it looked like this:

And Friday morning? Hey! What'd they do with my washer and dryer? Is this some sort of magic trick? We need clean clothes!

This is what my dining room looked like for the past 30 years:

And here it is in progress:

So, see, it is changing! It will be done soon and it will be beautiful!

Oh...excuse me for talking to myself. ;-)

Progress

2010-04-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

It sure is a lot faster to tear things out than it is to build them back up. That's true with our words and our tools apparently.

We're a week into our remodel and progress is slow but sure.

We've had trouble with our laundry line for years. I'm pretty sure this is why (Mom, all those years of the washer overflowing...this is it):

And here's the open trench that is in the middle of my kitchen. Envision a nice, new, clean, hole-free pipe here to feed the kitchen sink!

Ahhh...the sound of a jackhammer early in the morning. The laundry which used to sit right here is being moved to the other side of that wall. Uh...what wall? Well, there used to be a wall right there. It will be a door for direct access to the garage.

The makings of a new wall. Interesting how this pile of wood will become someplace to house the microwave and showcase a cedar chest inherited from my great-grandmother.

Here's Matt starting the process of building the new entry wall.

On the Loose? Well, he's in heaven! Our future "great room" is his living classroom for now! Notice the helmet, the goggles and the backpack (which is holding his drill because it kept falling out of his pocket). In this shot he is "jackhammering the floor to break it."

Next up...framing the new walls!

Goodbye 1964

2010-03-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

It's official. Demolition is well underway!

The destruction crew arrived at 9:00 am this morning.

This:

Is now this:

I went to grab some lunch and when I returned this:

Had become this:

And this:

this:

and this?

Ta-Dah!

I hope the guys are as good at rebuilding as they are at tearing things down! :-)

Major Remodel Ahead

2010-02-02T12:22:00.000-08:00

I have lived in this house since 1979. I was 10 years old when my mom and her husband bought it. When we were married, my husband and I began renting it from my mom. Finally, in 1999, we bought it from her. So, I have lived in this house for 30 years and 3 months!

This house was built in 1964 (or it may be '65) and still has the original kitchen. That means a 1960's cooktop; a 1960's oven; 1960's cabinets; etc. In other words, it's ugly and it doesn't function very well anymore. Not to mention, I'm tired of it having lived here since before microwaves and VCRs were commonplace!

My time has come! I am finally, officially remodeling this place! And, I couldn't be more excited!

Problem: I am challenged in the design department. Solution: I am working with an awesome designer!

I had my third meeting with her this morning at which time she showed me three different plans she has conceived for my space. Now, this is not going to simply be a kitchen remodel. In fact, the entire front of my house-living room, dining room, office space and kitchen-will be gutted. Walls we be demolished. New walls will be built. A double oven will be installed. Bookcases will be built in. My house is 1482 sq. feet in total and this remodel will completely changed 700 of those square feet. So, I'm not exaggerating when I say this is a major remodel!

While my designer and I sat at my dining room table, we took her three proposed plans and took elements from two of them to create an amazing space! She has listened to every word I've said and she has captured my style and my function better than I could have imagined. She is now finalizing our ideas, creating a shopping list for appliances and contacting my contractors (who are also great, BTW) with the draft!

Before it all begins, I thought I'd share the "befores" and give a sneak peak into how things will be transformed.

See this wall? Gone! It will no longer exist!

This is where a new sofa will go. And, you can see the "popcorn" ceiling. All gone, baby! :-) The piece you see to the right of the sofa as you face it is a cedar chest passed onto me from my great-grandmother. It will be refinished and find a new home in the entry way.

The fireplace...it will receive a major transformation! The windows on either side will be eliminated and floor to ceiling built in bookcases will take their place! There will also be a custom mantle and surround created. A new flat screen TV will go above. A nice seating area with two sofas and two chairs will set the stage for a nice conversation area around the fireplace.

The window next to the fireplace will become a bookcase as I mentioned before. I'm contemplating replacing the slider with French doors.

The window here will be taken out and a new picture window placed horizontally. Under that window will be a bench seat with storage underneath sitting up to a nice, square dining table. The wall where you see the framed photo hanging will be demolished and the refrigerator will go there.

Gross mid 60's kitchen! The walls you see before you will be gone! As you look to the left, that will be counter space with cabinets above and the cooktop will be where the sink is currently. The window above the sink, of course, will be eliminated. To the right, it will all be opened up to the living area and an island will appear.

This view will become my new pantry! The laundry will be moved to the exact opposite side of the wall which is the garage. There will be a door to the garage right where you see the washer and dryer right now.

You will be able to see my new island from this view! The double oven will go where you currently see the fridge.

This will be part of my new office space.

This wall is going! This will be where the island goes and will look out over the fireplace. This is the other side of the wall where you currently saw the TV.

This will be office space. I'll have a nice desk here.

More office space. The current bookcase will be removed and the whole corner will be built in bookcases/storage.

Isn't it exciting? I can't wait for the finished project! I'm not looking forward to living through construction but I am looking forward to a modern, functional living space.

Until the next installment...

Happy New Year

2010-01-02T21:19:00.000-08:00

As this new year begins, I've spent a lot of time thinking about goals I would like to focus on for the year. My good friend Goodwife H had a great post on her blog outlining her ponderings for the new year so I thought I'd follow her example.

I also like the way she outlined her goals into categories. I tend to think that way so I'm going to ~~steal~~ borrow her idea on that as well.

With that said:

Health: This is a big one for me this year! First, I turned 40 in 2009. Second, last year was a tough one health wise for me! It started when I experienced my first panic attack out of the blue in March. I'm working on discovering what causes them and how to deal with them when they come. I hope to eventually eliminate them altogether! In May, I was diagnosed with hypertension and began taking medication to control it. Problem? It's still not controlled. Along with the hypertension, I also learned that I have Hashimoto's Disease which results in an underactive thyroid. My joint pain has also increased. It seems that the minute I turned 40, I completely fell apart!

So, in the interest of my health, I am focussed on doing the things I already know how to do as well as continuing to learn how to better my health. I am committed to exercising for a very minimum of 20 minutes every day. I will also make sure I am getting enough sleep. And, my plan is to lose 5 pounds per month over the course of the year. I figure that's pretty realistic.

Homeschool: I need to be more consistent doing preschool with On the Loose. He loves it and thrives on it! I also plan to faithfully take him to the library once a week. It's his favorite place!

I will also keep up on reading the literature that the older two kids are reading. It drives me crazy when I get behind as it's nearly possible to catch up.

Lastly, I will continue researching college options, testing, transcripts, etc. to prepare for Turned Loose's senior year.

Home Management: This area continues to be a huge struggle for me. I'm great at financial budgeting but not so great at time budgeting. So, this is an area I'm working on-telling my time where to go just like I tell my money where to go.

Meal planning is also an issue for me. I really don't like to cook. I also just struggle putting a meal plan together and sticking to it. So, I'm going to work on improving in this area. There will be an obstacle, though! We will soon be starting a major kitchen remodel. Will be gutting down to the studs and starting over. I know that cooking will be even more difficult without any appliances. :-) If anyone has any suggestions for me in this area, I would love your help!

Family: I will work on planning our big trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks coming up late spring. This will possibly be our last major family vacation for all five of us before Turned Loose takes on some college courses and loses much of his flexibility to travel with us.

Personal: I am slowly learning to take care of myself and realize my limitations. I went on for years pretending that I was "supermom" and could be everything to everyone and do it all. I plan to continue setting some healthy boundaries so that I am caring for myself.

Spiritual: I recently decided on my "Word of the Year" for 2010: Sanctify. This is what I want my spiritual life to be about this year. Sanctifying Christ in my heart and participating in my own sanctification along with the Holy Spirit to conform me further into the image of Christ.

With God's grace, I will diligently pursue these goals and experience some degree of success which will allow me to grow over the course of this year.

I also pray that all of you will succeed in your goals as well!

A Tasty Snack

2009-12-31T12:09:00.000-08:00

So, I haven't blogged for a long time. I got bogged down with traveling and the holidays. What can I say?

I thought I'd offer a treat to anyone who may still be reading.

I guess you would call them Wonton Wrapper Chips. These were shared with me by my friend Lisa and I was craving them today so I thought I'd share. Disclaimer: they can be quite addictive! Disclaimer 2: I'm no Pioneer Woman with the camera so please excuse my photos!

They start with a package of wonton wrappers. In my grocery store, they are located near the fancy cheeses, hummus, etc.

Line a cookie sheet (or baking pan with a rim) with parchment paper.

Pour some oil into a bowl. I use olive oil. (Like the Sesame Street bowl? It's been around since Turned Loose was a little guy.)

This is how the wrappers look out of the package.

I use my handy dandy Pampered Chef pizza cutter to cut them into fourths.

Lay them out on the baking sheet. Brush them lightly with the oil with a pastry brush. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Pop them in a 350 degree oven. These take just a hair under4 minutes in my oven but my oven isn't reliable. It might take an extra minute or two in a working oven.

They come out looking like this. Slightly golden around the edges.

And then you have a plate of yumminess with endless possibilities!

Use them for a variety of dips-hummus, mango salsa, onion dip....use your imagination. You can also change them up according to your mood or needs by sprinkling different spices on top instead of the salt and pepper.

Enjoy!

College...here we come!

2009-10-23T16:00:00.000-07:00

I have been blessed to homeschool my kids since Turned Loose was in second grade. It's been challenging, it's been fun, it's been overwhelming.

My cute little 7 year old second grader is now and almost17 year old (in two weeks) eleventh grader and college is right around the corner. College preparation can be scary for a simple homeschooling mom! My job has gone from teaching him (Who am I kidding? I haven't taught this kid anything academic since he was about 8!) to being a full time guidance counselor. Problem? I have no clue how to do this part of the job!

So, I've been researching. Turned Loose is a scientist at heart and he is interested in very intense and very competitive schools. I'm the opposite of a scientist and cry in fear at the thought of stepping foot on the campus of the likes of CalTech, MIT, or Harvey Mudd-all schools that my son would love to attend!

I'm learning and growing and attempting to equip myself to make application to one of these schools within reach for my high schooler. I thought maybe someone out there might be interested in some of what I've learned so I'll begin sharing my thoughts and discoveries as I press on through this junior and senior year.

I will also have a ninth grader next school year and will start my preparations for her much earlier now that I know better.

I hope that some of what I've learned will be a benefit to someone else out there. I wish I would have had my hand held starting a few years ago but I really didn't even know where to look at that time. If I can help hold the hand of another mom who is a little intimidated by the prospect of college I'll be thankful!

If there's anything that anyone would like to see me address specifically, I'd be happy to do that, too. I hope to post at least once a week with my ideas about college prep planning.

Here's a hug for all of my fellow homeschoolers navigating these waters!

Preschool Fun

2009-09-18T12:24:00.001-07:00

I haven't been as regular as On the Loose would like with preschool these days, but we still manage to have some fun.

He is still greatly enjoying his bags we collected as part of our preschool bag swap with our Five in a Row friends!

This one uses foam shapes to organize by color and by shape:

This is one of his very favorites! You "fish" for the letter fish with a magnetic pole and place the letters on the card one at a time.

This is the one he and I made for the swap. It's another magnetic fishing pole. There are 10 magnetic items and 10 non-magnetic items. The goal is to classify them by what sticks and what doesn't.

Here's some play-doh fun with his brother. He's made a "circle shaped pizza with tomato sauce and cheese on top. ":-)

We've also read a wide variety of library books, played blocks, experimented with numbers, etc. I think we've been successful in spite of our not being regular. We'll see what next week holds!

Five Years

2009-09-17T09:52:00.000-07:00

Can it really be five years? Some days it feels like it was yesterday. Some days it feels like a lifetime ago. Some days it feels like it was just a nightmare and that it never really happened.

Five years ago today, September 17, 2004, our family welcomed our beautiful Katherine into our lives. We went into that day thinking we were going to meet a perfectly healthy baby and that she would soon be home with us and fit into our fun. However, our world was turned upside down a few short hours after her birth. I will never forget my husband turning to me and saying, "We have a problem. It's her heart." Our world changed in that moment.

Our perfect little girl was broken on the inside and we had no power to fix things. A simple kiss from Mommy couldn't make things better. All of the skinned knees, bruises, etc. that I had spent nearly 12 years kissing away did not prepare me to be able to fix it this time. We had to completely and totally turn her over to the One who had knit her together.

And turn her over we did. We cried and begged and prayed for God to heal her broken little heart. I sat by her bedside and whispered into her ear all of the plans I had for her. I looked for God's goodness in her life every day.

In the end, He chose to take her home to be with Him. She lived exactly six weeks. In that time, my faith grew and I developed a new sense of what it is to hope in God. He has proven Himself over and over again over the past five years as He has held us and comforted us.

This day is always hard for me as I can imagine celebrating with her. I can imagine the cake and the ice-cream. The dolls. Her smile as we sing Happy Birthday. Instead of those things, the Lord has replaced them with hope. Hope in seeing her again someday as we feast with Him and sing His praises forever.

Happy Birthday Dear On the Loose...

2009-09-09T22:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday dear On the Loose
Happy Birthday to you!!

Our little guy turned 4 years old today! I can't believe that I was holding a sweet smelling little newborn 4 years ago tonight. He's growing into such a funny little fellow. We are blessed by him for sure!

One of his new fascinations is music. His instrument of choice is....the drums. Don't laugh! I know you're laughing and saying, "Better her than me!" At any rate, I took him to Toys R Us today to buy him a bike. I also found this fun electronic drum set. Apparently, drumming is dangerous business.

Last Mother's Day we went to lunch at an outdoor shopping mall. This giant ferris wheel is a focal point. On that day, he wanted to ride the wheel but, well, I'm afraid of heights and did not want to ride an overgrown ferris wheel on my special day. So, he asked (on Mother's Day) if he could ride it on his birthday. Four months later, his birthday finally arrived and we made good on our promise.

He was very excited! :-)

When we got to the top (yes, I swallowed my fear and rode the darned thing!), he said, "Look, Mommy! You can see everything from up here!"

After riding the ferris wheel, we had dinner at California Pizza Kitchen. He always orders a "circle shaped pizza with tomato sauce and cheese on top!" He got that from an episode of Blue's Clues. But, I don't like dealing with tomato sauce with a little guy, so when he places his order and the server just looks at him, I say, "He'll have the honey chicken pizza please." :-) When they ask if he'd like tomato sauce on it, I just inconspicuously shake my head. On the Loose doesn't even notice.

Nice and full, we headed for the carousel. He enjoyed his ride. On the way out the exit, a nice, big red button was just at his level. He couldn't resist and he pushed it before I could grab his hand. It instantly turned off all of the lights on the carousel and it was plenty dark outside. Red faced, I profusely apologized to the carousel operator and she said, "It's OK. It happens all the time." I'm not sure if that's true or if she was just trying to make me feel better. He still lives up to his moniker of Mr. Naughty Pants!

To top off a fun birthday celebration, we headed to a cupcake shop! Yum! Here you can decorate your own cupcake and they'll give you a candle and some matches to make your experience complete!

He chose blue frosting, M & M's and gummy bears.

We sang Happy Birthday and just enjoyed the moment.

I think he had a fun and fabulous day! :-)

A Legacy of Faith

2009-08-30T17:28:00.001-07:00

How can one begin to document the influence that a loved one has had on her life? How do I recount the love, laughter, care and tenderness that one woman has bestowed upon me over the past 40 years?

As I spent these last days with my grandma, so many emotions flood my heart. My memories are so fond. Her closet full of high heels and square dancing costumes were at the constant disposal of my cousins and I as we twirled around and around and around in those full skirts. Her laughter as we played “shoe store” with our grandpa (he was always such a good sport!) was contagious. She lovingly tucked us into the “antique bed” more times than I can count. She gave me my first taste of coffee. Well, it was actually a mug of cream and sugar with a drop of coffee in it. She also tricked me into tasting buttermilk straight from a glass.

There was always room for me in her home and I availed myself of the opportunities so often! I would have rather been at my grandma’s house than at any other place on the earth, including Disneyland. I spent my spring breaks and part of my summer breaks with her. We went to the pool. We went to the beach. We played UNO for hours.

She’s always given to me. She’s always cared for me.

During the past ten years, I have had the blessing of being able to care for her by helping her with certain tasks. I have done her grocery shopping, taken her to the doctor, done her bookkeeping, etc. Yes, I’ve given to her. But…the blessing of what I have received far surpasses anything I have given!

Over those same ten years, my grandma passed on a legacy. She lived her faith every day. She donated her time to helping pack Braille Bibles every Tuesday morning for 26 years. She loved her neighbors, her friends and her family. She was content in everything.

My family and I shared her last moments with her and the peace that surrounded her was amazing. She was so ready to meet her Savior! True to form she was a bit impatient about it but oh was she ready.

Over the past two months her kidneys failed her. Her body became weak but her soul became that much stronger! She longed to see the Lord face to face and she spent hours praying for that meeting and for the family she was leaving behind.

At the age of 87, my grandma passed away just two weeks ago with us at her side. I miss her more than I can possibly express. But, I embrace the legacy she left for me; the legacy of her faith. Not only that but I look forward with joy to the day I will reunite with her on those streets of gold!

I can only pray that my own legacy will be as rich!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-08-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

Buried under a pile of curriculum

2009-08-03T17:34:00.000-07:00

We officially began our 11th year of homeschooling today. Turned Loose is a new 11th grader. Footloose has begun 8th grade. And, On the Loose is enjoying pre-kindergarten.

I must admit that, due to the events of the summer, I have had no motivation to plan the new year. The older kids take classes through The Potter's School (see the left side bar for a link) and those classes do not start until September 14th. So, I only have to plan the lessons for the classes I facilitate for them. Even so, my motivation is non-existent.

Maybe this is part of the reason why. This pile is just history books:

I had to dig into the box where all of this was stored in order to find the logic book and Bible curricula that Footloose will be using this year. I also need to find some pre-k stuff.

I really must figure out a better, more efficient storage system then just throwing it all into a big rubbermaid bin!

When I dig myself out, I will post about how I plan high school: how I store records, what I keep, what forms I create, etc. That way, maybe I can remember my system when it's time to plan again! :-)

I'm still here...

2009-07-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

With good reason, it's been over a month since I wrote anything here.

Just a few days after my last post, my grandma became ill and I've spent the last five weeks caring for her. After a week in the hospital and two and a half weeks in skilled nursing, I had her admitted to hospice care and took her back to her own home. She is resting comfortably there with wonderful care givers around the clock.

Although it has been somewhat stressful managing her care, it has been a blessing to meet her needs and spend extended time with her.

The last two weeks have also been busy on the homefront. Turned Loose spent a week at Point Loma University at Worldview Academy. He had an amazing time and can't wait to return next summer. His sister spent the week bemoaning the fact that she missed her brother and that she wished she could have gone with him. They are both registered for next year. :-)

Last week, they both spent long days at the Concordia Debate Institute honing their debate and research skills. They made lots of new friends and, generally, had a blast! Two weeks from now, they will attend speech and debate camp with our own club.

This week, I really must plan our next school year! We are due to start a week from today and I've done virtually nothing in preparation!

With that-I'm off to start the day!

Living in a small space...

2009-06-17T12:09:00.000-07:00

OK, I know. I haven't blogged in forever. I'm lazy and I've had nothing to say. :-)

But, I was reading a thread on Five in a Row today about large families living in small spaces. Well, I don't claim to have a large family (although, some people think that two adults living with three kids is large) but we do have a space challenge here. Four of us are adult sized 6'5", 5'11", 6'2", and 5'9" respectively from oldest to youngest. On the Loose isn't quite 4 feet yet.

Our house is 1482 sq. feet. I have found that an important sanity saver of living in a small home is to make use of as much vertical space as possible! It helps keep clutter out of the way so that we're not tripping on it as we stumble to the bathroom in the middle of the night. It makes room for guests. It makes me happy!

Both bedrooms occupied by kids make use of the vertical space in the closets.

Here is the space shared by Footloose and On the Loose. The drawers in the middle serve as On the Loose's dresser. Footloose has a "captain's bed" with drawers underneath that she uses. The rods are all adjustable so we can just move them around as their needs change.

Here is the closet in Turned Loose's room. Same idea as the other bedroom but he needed more shelf space. Again, the drawers serve as his dresser. Note some strange science experiment in jars taking place on the top shelf.

I have also recently had my entry way closet redone and posted about that here. You can also take a peek at how I repurposed a book case to make use of some vertical space for toys here.

Eventually, I hope to have the two closets in the master bedroom redone as well. I continue to try to be creative at making use of our vertical space. Of course, most likely, the best solution would be to just get rid of some of our stuff! I mean, how much stuff do five people need?

I'd also love to hear your ideas for living in a smallish space!

A Week of Preschool

2009-05-15T14:08:00.000-07:00

This week we looked at the book Yellow Ball by Molly Bang from Before Five in a Row. We didn't do as many book related items as we did the previous two weeks but we did have lots of fun.

We talked about perspectives and located the ball on each page discussing why it looked bigger or smaller or lighter or darker. We experimented with balls and balloons to see which would fall faster, which would float, etc. We even bought a new ball to play with outside!

Our art work explored a couple of different mediums as we re-created the cover of our book. The one in his right hand was created with crayons and the other was created with Do-A-Dots.

Today, the big kids babysat for a couple of hours while I went to a chiropractic appointment and then a staff meeting at our office. Upon my return, I found a Playdough extravaganza! Turned Loose had assembled a tasty looking meal of pizza, a sandwich and a cup of lemonade. (By the way, Footloose insists that I tell you all that the lemonade as her idea and she made the cup.) Turned Loose is quite precise in his methods so the circles you see were actually created with a compass.

Oh, and, come to find out, he used my cheese grater to make the "cheese." Why must he be so realistic?

Yummy Sandwich! Wanna bite?

It was another fun and successful week of preschool, indeed!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-13T12:47:00.001-07:00

Sedona, Arizona

An organized entry colset....Finally!

2009-05-12T09:13:00.000-07:00

I've previously expressed (maybe complained about) my challenge of managing 5 people and all of their stuff in my smallish (under 1500 square feet) house. I really am thankful for my house and know that there are many larger families who live with less space. In my attempt to remain content in my smallish environment, I try to make efficient use of all vertical space.

A few days ago, I finally got what I've been dreaming about for a long time. Something to help with organizing some of our things. Something to solve my problem of an avalanche of stuff falling out at me everytime I open the door. A closet system for my entry way closet!

Here's a view of the closet with the door closed. It's in my entryway. You see it immediately to the right when you walk in the front door.

Here's what it looked like before it was saved from despair! Oh my goodness! It was so horrible. A jumbled mess of toys (see the box of Legos on the top shelf and the big box of wooden blocks balanced near the bottom?), baseball caps, tote bags, the cameras, etc. It was scary, I tell you!

Here it is all emptied out. A blank canvas ready for someone to come and create organizational magic!

And, here it is all built out! I thought about kissing the guy who built it. But, I thought it might freak him out.

And here it is with lots of the stuff put back in. See, now, the tote bags neatly tucked away on the bottom shelf. The wooden blocks on a nice flat surface no longer threatening to topple out and break a toe. One shelf for printer paper, ink, and the like where I can easily access it whenever my printer is beeping that it's out of paper because someone forgot to refill it! Preschool items neatly sorted in see through bins so I can grab and go!

Since we live in such a warm climate, I only had a small rod designed into the closet. We had no need for a rod all the way across as seen in the before photos. We rarely need a jacket and, even when we do, all we have are light weight ones which easily fit on a smaller rod in this closet.

It's a beautiful thing--an organized closet! By the way, the shelves are all adjustable so, as time goes by, I can rearrange them to suit my changing needs. It doesn't take that much to excite me, does it?

A happy, contented sigh...

His Grace

2009-05-11T08:04:00.000-07:00

I have a tendency to focus on my own negative character traits. At times, I teeter on actually allowing them to define me in my own head. The things I've left undone. The verses I haven't memorized with the kids. The angry outbursts. Not cooking enough homemade meals. I could just let it all swallow me up.

This morning I was encouraged by Ann's devotion at Holy Experience and I wanted to share it with you.

God's grace is sufficient to use my character flaws and mold me into what He wants me to be--one who serves others because He serves me.

Be encouraged, my friends, and enjoy His grace!

A Week of Preschool

2009-05-09T10:38:00.000-07:00

This week, we explored Corduroy. On the Loose is quite fascinated with this story. He asks lots of questions about the details when we read it.

We created button patterns from a printout at Homeschool Share:

We colored parts of the story and pasted them into a story sequencing rhyme (also from Homeschool Share):

We colored an "F" with two bear friends to focus on Corduroy's friendship (from? Yes, you guessed it--Homeschool Share):

On the Loose cuts scraps of paper and he glued them to a sheet of construction paper to make a quilt "like Lisa's bed":

Footloose and On the Loose sorted buttons by color:

This is not Corduroy related but he really enjoyed working with his colored links and activity cards:

It was a very productive preschool week. Truly, the kid has an insatiable desire to do preschool! He never tires of it and really keeps me on my toes to think of new and interesting things to do with him. I'm so incredibly thankful for all of the moms who blog about their activities with this age group! I don't know what I'd do without them!

A Week of Preschool

2009-05-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

This week was fun! On the Loose and I centered our week around The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. It's one of his very favorite books! I found some fun craft ideas online and, I think, we did at least one each day. Here's a sampling:

This was actullay a picture I tore out of one of his "Do a Dot" books.

This was a worksheet I found online here.

He loved coloring the foods and tracing the letters. It was a great activity for teaching him the days of the week.

Here's a caterpillar we made. The idea came from this link.

We also made Carisa's Tot Book. He wasn't quite as into it as last week's book but still enjoyed it.

Aside from our caterpillar specifics, we did lots of other things: worked on memorizing a Bible verse, math with funtastic frogs and teddy grahams, playing outside, etc. It was a fun week of preschool to be sure.

For fun, here's a video of him reading the book. Footloose got it recorded for me so it's her voice you hear in the background.

We're looking forward to next week. We'll be having fun with Cordoroy!

Congratulations!

2009-04-28T22:10:00.000-07:00

To my 16 year old son Turned Loose! Today we received his results for the National Latin Exam and he was awarded a Silver Medal, Maxima Cum Laude on the level 2 test.

Congratulations, son! We're very proud of you!

A week of preschool

2009-04-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

On the Loose loves preschool! He asks to do it every day...all day every day! Now that we are finally back home and into our regular routine, I cannot deny him any longer. This week, we had lots of fun surrounding the book Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin, Jr. and John Archambault.

I printed the pages for a "Tot Book" from Carisa's site. I also color copied the cover of our copy of the book here at home and we made a "Tot Book":

On the Loose had a great time with his book! He sorted letters, colored the coconut tree different colors, spelled out his name with stickers and identified shapes.

He's really enjoying his preschool corner and regularly tells me, "Daddy built me this preschool corner. Wasn't that nice of him?"

I also printed and colored this version of the coconut tree so that he could re-create the story whenever he wanted.

Our plan for next week is to make the "Tot Book" for The Very Hungry Caterpillar. That is definitely on of his favorites!

Finally a successful steak!

2009-04-18T18:21:00.000-07:00

I've tried for years to make a good steak. My husband of darn near 20 years loves steak. My 16 year old son loves steak. Unfortunately for them, I can't cook meat!

That all changed tonight! Per my last entry, I confessed that I have been spending some time at The Pioneer Woman. While browsing her cooking section, I saw a recipe for "pan fried rib eye steak."

Oh. My. Goodness. I have died and gone to heaven! That was the most delicious, juicy steak I've ever eaten! My family loved it! I served it with roasted red potatoes and a blue cheese wedge salad. We are happy and content tonight!

I can't wait to try another of her recipes!

My new "addiction..."

2009-04-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

I've really been enjoying reading and gleaning all kinds of tips, wisdom, inspiration, etc. from so many incredible blogs out there. I am thankful for so many bloggers who allow me a peek into their lives!

My new blogging addiction is one that I've seen referenced so many times but I just hadn't made my way over there yet. So, many of you (I'm sure) are regualr readers of my new blogging hero but for those of you who have yet to be amazed, head on over to The Pioneer Woman. She's fantastic. She's a great cook. And, she's hilarious!

Since I've been sick this week, I've spent...uh...some number of hours reading her archives. Her chronicles of remodeling The Lodge provided lots of entertainment for me during my suffering.

So, head on over to Ree's site and have a little fun!

Boy have we been sick!

2009-04-15T17:15:00.000-07:00

We finally arrived home from San Francisco (via Santa Rosa) on Sunday, April 5th after two complete weeks of travel!

We first spent a week in San Francisco (well, technically, in Larkspur...Don commuted in by the ferry each day). That was followed by a two day debate tournament in San Jose. We left San Jose on Sunday and spent the day in San Francisco again. From there, we spent another week in Larkspur with Don working in The City.

Tuesday of that week, Turned Loose came down with something terrible. He was in bed in our hotel room the entire day barely able to move. I knew we would all start falling since we were trapped in that room together with no where to go. Of course, Footloose and I came down with it next on Wednesday. On the Loose was next on Thursday. The big guy finally got it on Friday.

It was miserable! Body aches, fevers, sore throats, chests full of mucous, terrible coughs, etc. But, we were now in Santa Rosa for another tournament! The kids did well in spite of nearly loosing their voices.

Like I said, we returned home that Sunday but all of us were still sick. It lasted the longest for me. In fact, now two weeks later, I still have the cough.

Last Saturday, we went to my dad and stepmom's house to have an Easter celebration. Half way through dinner, my precious little sister informed me that her daughter (my beautiful little neice) had thrown up on the way from home and apologized ahead of time if we got sick. Ummmmm.....sis! You should have told us this before you exposed us!

Guess what? We most of us got it! Monday saw Don, Turned Loose and Footloose fall victim to the evil stomach bug. I came down with it yesterday.

The worst part is that we were supposed to leave yesterday for Modesto to compete in one final tournament of the year. There was no way we could travel in the condition we found ourselves in. So, we had to disappoint the kids' debate partners and pull out at the last minute. And...our season is now over until next fall.

I think we are finally on the mend. I'm the last to heal. I'm still coughing from the original bug and am still a bit weak from the stomach thing but I did catch up on the mountain of ironing today, did a few loads of laundry and vacuumed the master bedroom!

And, to my dear sister: Hey! Next time tell us that you all have "the crud" before we get there! :-)

More San Francisco

2009-03-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

We finally explored more to the west side of San Francisco. We'd actually never been to the ocean side. Lunch at The Cliff House was nice. I'm not sure it's really worth the price but the view is beautiful!

From there, we headed to Golden Gate Park. Wow! That is some park! While walking around, you would hardly know you are in the middle of a huge city. We took a stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden which was lovely.

Turned Loose and Footloose:

Daddy and On the Loose:

All three of the kids:

The flowers were simply beautiful:

Upon leaving Golden Gate Park, Don took me to Alamo Sqaure to see The Painted Ladies. It's a sight I've always wanted to see and we've just never gotten there. It was such a perfect weather day and they were well worth the trip!

It was fun to expand our horizons in the city! If you're ever headed there, drop me a line and I'll give my recommendations! :-)

San Francisco Part 2

2009-03-26T22:41:00.001-07:00

Here's part 2 of my San Francisco photo essay. :-)

The kids and I visited The Exploratorium. It's a great "hands on" science center--the best one we've been to yet! We all had a great time. Afterwards, we wandered around the Marina a bit.

On the Loose concentrating on one of the sand exhibits:

Turned Loose and On the Loose trying to balance the unbalanced table:

Footloose and On the Loose making huge bubbles:

All three of them in front of the Palace of Fine Arts:

Part of the neighborhood in the Marina District...this neighborhood is gorgeous:

A view from the bottom of the hill:

We had a snack at what has become a favorite place of our in SF:

And, of course, a view of the Golden Gate:

Lord willing, my next installment will include some photos of Golden Gate Park.

San Francisco

2009-03-24T20:46:00.000-07:00

We've spent quite a bit of time in San Francisco recently. My husband has been working for Pacific Gas and Electric one or two weeks per month for the past six months. The kids and I have had the opportunity to travel with him for four out of the six weeks he's worked there since the beginning of January.

We've stayed in Larkspur which is about 12 miles north of the city. It's quieter and lots cheaper than staying right in San Francisco. We are very conveniently located across the street from the ferry landing. He takes the boat each morning he's there and it drops him off at the Ferry Building in San Francisco. He walks about three blocks and is at the office. The kids and I have also taken the boat over several times. On the Loose, in particular, loves these rides and chatters the whole 30 minutes about the surrounding sites.

I thought I'd share a little photo essay of The City....

The view walking out of the office where Don has been working:

A local flower stand on Market Street:

The Federal Reserve Bank located on the next block over from PG &E:

The view looking up Market Street from the waterfront:

The Ferry Building at the foot of Market Street...the front sidewalks are transformed into an amazing farmer's market twice a week:

Inside the Ferry Building...there are all kinds of amazingly tasty treats in here:

The skyline as you approach on the ferry:

A water view of Coit Tower:

The Golden Gate Bridge from the ferry:

Not in San Francisco but this is San Quentin Prison from the ferry. Our hotel is literally about a mile from here. :-)

A guard tower at the prison:

This is the view as we first board the ferry. The hotel we've stayed at a few times now is just behind those trees.

I'll share more pictures from around the city soon! Although I don't ever think I could be a true big city dweller, I have to say that I really do enjoy San Francisco!

Loving Preschool!

2009-03-22T08:18:00.001-07:00

On the Loose is 3 1/2 now! Where in the world does the time go? Each day he asks me to "play preschool" with him. When asked what Mommy is good at, he says, "Mommy is very good at preschool!" ;-) So, we indulge him in his preschool activities.

I'm hoping to make a regular weekly "preschool post" here but I just wanted to share a few websites that have been helpful to me in our preschool endeavors. If you look over to my left sidebar (yay! My hubby helped me figure out how to make my blog three column! He's the best!), you'll see some of my favorites. I'm adding to it when I get time.

My old favorites:

Five in a Row--This has been my favorite site since I started homeschooling in 1999! The moms there are full of wonderful advice.

Letter of the Week--Here is a fully written alphabet "curriculum" with fun activities for each day of the week.

New favorites:

Preschool Express--Really....endless ideas! You must go there if you have a preschooler!

Tot School--Wow! This is my newest favorite!! What a fun and creative mom! I hesitate to tell how many hours I've spent here recently.

I will talk about more as time goes by. Please feel free to drop me a comment to tell me of your favorites for the 3-5 crowd. I'm always looking for new ideas!

Happy Preschool everyone!

The Potter's School

2009-03-20T22:16:00.001-07:00

We are currently in our third year of using The Potter's School for some of our more specialized classes for junior high and high school. They offer high quality classes with very professional teachers. So far we have utilized HTML, biology, chemistry, French 1, Latin 1 & 2, US history and advanced composition.

Here's how it works: Each week your student attends class for 90 minutes. In that class period, all students enrolled in that section gather together using a teleconferencing software. They interact with one another and the teacher. The lessons and assignments are presented to the class.

Each teacher determines their own schedule for work to be turned in. Once the teacher has graded the completed assignments, those grades are available for viewing by the students and parents on the Moodle website. You are able to see each graded piece of work as well as the cumulative grade for the class at any given moment.

The classes are rigourous and rewarding. For this mom, who can easily become overwhelmed by science, they are a very welcome tool in our homeschool.

The new list of classes for the 09-10 school year has been recently released and some of them look so exciting! It will be hard for us to choose which we want to pursue for the coming year. Turned Loose does know that he will take physics, anatomy and physiology (or advanced chemistry) and Latin 3. But, we are undecided on a fourth class. (I'm leaning toward forcing him to take a class on writing a research paper but we're still in negotiations.) Footloose will be taking jr. high French 2 and, possibly, one other class.

Each class we've taken has been worth every penny of tuition!

Registration is opening soon. It is definitely something worth considering if you are homeschooling a 7th-12th grader!

Special Delivery

2009-03-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

My husband has been traveling lately. In fact, he's travelled more in the past few months than he has our entire married life. We've spent more nights apart in the past several months than in our entire 19 years combined!

It's been hard on all of us. He misses the balance that family life adds to his perspective of work. The kids miss their dad. I miss the companionship and touch of my beloved.

He'll be home in less than 12 hours now (well, provided we don't experience yet another flight delay!) and we can't wait! In the meantime, I was greeted at the door by a wonderful surprise...

Thank you, Honey! Thank you for thinking of us and praying for us while you're away. Thank you for blessing me with some beauty today as I anticipte your return!

I love you!

Prayer

2009-03-02T00:10:00.001-08:00

The Lord is teaching me a lesson in prayer this week: Pray for those who persecute you. I always expect persecution from outside the church but persecution from inside the church still surprises me.

Through this experience, I am mindful of the times where I have been guilty of what I am now facing. I have gossipped. I have stuck my nose into other peoples' business and gotten some strange satisfaction in passing it on to others. I'm sure I have even "shared" my own "interpretation" of actions and events that ended up looking not so much like the truth when I was done.

I am praying that the Lord will continue to convict me of these things. I also pray that He will convict those who are guilty of the same. Lord, please teach me to forgive others even as you have forgiven me.

The continued lessons that He brings into my life are faith building. I count it pure joy when I suffer trials of many kinds because trials produce perseverence and perseverence hope. My hope in Him is where I rest.

As a side note, I want to offer this caution: Everything you say online is suseptible to being read by someone. The photos you post can be snagged and used in a way you did not authorize or intend. Be careful what you say as not everyone has your best interest at heart.

With love to my friends and thanksgiving to my Lord,

Memory Work

2009-02-18T12:51:00.000-08:00

As Charlotte Mason/classical homeschoolers, we have often engaged in memory work as a part of our schooling. I have found that young children are capable of memorizing copious amounts of material in a relatively short amount of time.

On the Loose is now 3 years 5 months old and has two items memorized that we'd like to share today:

These two pieces, in particular, are The Lord's Prayer and The Apostle's Creed. We attend a PCA church. We use these in our worship service each week. So, not only does our work serve merely as memory work, it enables On the Loose to actively participate in the corporate worship service. He knows when they are about to be said and loves to recite them with the rest of the congregation.

I hope that you find this encouraging! I am planning on beginning a memorization program with him shortly in which we will use The Memory Work Notebook by Paul Settle, published by Great Commision Publications.

May you find much satisfaction in your memory work!

Word of the Year update

2009-02-09T14:10:00.001-08:00

I'm a week late. I know. My committment was to post an update on my Word of the Year on the first Monday of each month. Last Monday I took the kids into San Francisco to have lunch with Don and wander around. The big kids and I bowled and we took On the Loose to a nice playground. Footloose tempted fate and was given a talking to by the "playground patrol" who threatened to ask her to leave for going down the slide. The playground sign said that the equipment was for ages 5-12. She explained to him that she was 12. He said he didn't believe her. So, I had to step in and inform him that, yes, she is only 12. Poor guy! She is 5'8" after all and walks around in a woman's body but 12 is still convenient for us when it comes to playgrounds and kids' meals. :-)

Back to my Word of the Year---Prayer.

I really didn't know what I was getting myself into by choosing this word. Did I think that God wasn't going to use it to reveal my weaknesses or my desperate need for spiritual growth?

What have I learned so far as I've focussed on my word? I've learned that I don't know a thing about prayer. I've learned that I've spent the last 20 years as a Christian fumbling around and not being effective. I've learned that, although I do have a tremendous amount of faith, I have not been showing that in my prayer life.

The ladies' Bible study that I attend has been studying prayer for the past few months using Andrew Murray's With Christ in the School of Prayer. At times, instead of coming away feeling uplifted and encouraged, I have found myself feeling defeated and unsure. It almost seems as if the way I've viewed prayer for all these years is so inadequate. Now that we've finished the book, I feel like I need to go through and read it again to really deal with all that's been laid before me.

What I do know...I want to have a devoted life of prayer. I want my prayers to be pleasing to the One who intercedes for me. I want my prayers to change things. I want my prayers to change me.

What I don't know...How I'm going to get there from where I am right now.

So, I feel like a new Christian again in spite of the fact that I've been a believer for 20 years this month! I feel like I'm relearning to walk when I should be at the point where I'm soaring. I'm starting small with offering faithful prayers with the confidence that He will answer because I am abiding in Him.

I'm thankful for being pruned even though it's uncomfortable. I'm like an overgrown tree that has ceased to produce fruit because it has become unhealthy. But God is faithful and He is pruning me back to the point where I can grow again. I do look foward to the continued lessons as He walks beside me while I take baby steps.

When I grow up, I want to be a "prayer warrior."

And there you have it...me being real!

I'm still here...

2009-02-04T22:07:00.000-08:00

It's been a week since I've blogged. On Wednesday of last week, On the Loose got sick. On Thursday night, I came down with it. I went from feeling totally healthy to feeling like I was going to die in a matter of one hour. The chills and body aches were agony (and, for those who think I'm prone to hyperbole, this is no exaggeration!). Fortunately, the worst of it was over in 24 hours but I felt bad for three days.

Sunday, after church, we left for San Francisco again. We've been hanging out here this week while hubby works hard. It's supposed to rain the next couple of days up here so I don't know if we'll do anything.

I know I missed my scheduled post on my word of the year on Monday. I'm thinking on it and will get something up soon. The living out of my word is going differently than I thought it would and I'm processing that.

That's it for a quick update. I'll see you all again soon!

Legalism or....

2009-01-28T18:48:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about legalism again. What is it? What is it not? Why does the word get thrown around so much? It does seem to me that many Christians accuse other Christians of being "legalists" when they simply don't agree with the standard to which the latter live.

True legalism is adding to the word of God. It is setting a standard that is extrabiblical. A couple of months ago I had a conversation on this topic with another Christian. This person was concerned that I am a legalist and that I lead others down that same path. I was taken aback by this and asked the Lord to seek my heart and reveal to me if it was truth.

After some prayer and soul searching, this is what I responded to my friend:

--I think you confuse my desire for obedience in my own life for legalism. Jesus Himself says, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching.” (John 14:23) And, the Great Commission even says, “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20) When we are touched by His grace-made new by His grace- we will desire to obey His teachings.

Obedience without grace is legalism. Grace without obedience is antinomian. We, as Christians, walk the line between the two. We love the Lord and obey Him because of the grace He has shown us. I don’t seek to obey because I think I am earning some sort of favor with God. I don’t seek to obey because I want some set of rules that make me feel better about myself. I don’t obey because I’m trying to earn my way into His presence. I desire to be obedient because I love Him; because I am keenly aware of His grace. And, I fall short every single day which causes me to fall back on His grace and forgiveness. I don’t see myself as having a voice of influence. But, if I do influence anyone, I would pray that it would be to obey what the Lord has for them out of an abundance of His grace. I don’t set up some extra-biblical rules and then place a yoke of following them upon others, or even upon myself.--

As I contemplate this topic once more, my prayer is that I will focus on my own obedience before the Lord and that I will be grace extending to those around me. Above all, my desire is for the Lord to continue to make His grace full in my own life and in the lives of His people.

Hopefully Helpful

2009-01-27T15:03:00.000-08:00

My guess is that most of my friends are already aware of this magic trick but since I just performed it, I thought I'd share for the benefit of those who may not know. :-)

When cleaning the microwave:

Fill a bowl with water and baking soda. Throw your dishrag into the bowl. Heat in the microwave for about 2 1/2 minutes. Let sit for several minutes to let the steam do its work. Open the door and wipe out your appliance with ease! It will come clean so easily and the baking soda will take out the smell of whatever has been cooking in there.

For an added bonus: squeeze some fresh lemon (or orange) juice into your water before heating. Put the remaining pulp and rinds down the garbage disposal and grind. Your whole kitchen will smell fresh and clean! I'm sure a few drops of essential oil would do the trick as well.

Back to work....:-)

School on the road

2009-01-23T17:40:00.000-08:00

I continue to love the flexibility of being a homeschooler. I do admit, though, that's it is becoming more difficult as the kids get older. This week, we've been staying in a small town just north of San Francisco while my husband works in the city. (We're literally about one mile from San Quentin--California's most notorious prison. I was wondering if they had any room for......just kidding....:-)

Both kids are taking classes through The Potter's School this year so as long as we have a high speed connection, we're good to go. The challenge comes with keeping up with all of our assignments when we're away not to mention lugging an entire extra suitcase just to accomodate the sheer size of all of those high school text books!

I really need to figure out how to keep our school routine while we're on the road as we will be traveling with dad at least three more weeks in the next two months. I also need to plan what we will do in the local area during those trips. We will be competing in two tournaments while we travel at the end of March so I know what those days will hold.

I'd love to hear any ideas for keeping school moving while on the road. It was a lot easier when they were little and the work could wait until we got back home. But, I do love being able to travel together, make memories and experience life in different geographical regions!

We're looking forward to being home tomorrow and to our next road trip!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-01-21T15:24:00.000-08:00

Tournament recap

2009-01-20T20:57:00.000-08:00

Well, the speech and debate tournament was very rewarding! It was long and exhausting but we enjoyed every minute. Neither of my kids "broke" (speech code for advance) but several kids in our club advanced to higher rounds.

I can't begin to tell you how impressive these students are. They worked hard! The days lasted 16 hours and they were composed, respectful and energetic. The level of competition is amazing and you forget that you are watching kids that are between the ages of 12 and 18.

We are praying for a long and successful "career" for the competitors in our family. The goal is to work with our team and to learn communication skills that will make their witness for Christ exemplary.

We are very eagerly awaiting our next tournament and congratulate all of our friends on a job will done!

Busy Week this Week!

2009-01-13T09:33:00.000-08:00

It's here! Our first major speech and debate tournament! We're very excited. Complete exhaustion is ahead, we're sure, but a very satisfying exhaustion.

Footloose is trying to cut that humorous interpretation down to 10 minutes! She's also practicing her impromtu speeches everyday.

Turned Loose is putting the final touches onto the case he and his partner are running for Team Policy Debate. In addition, he's reviewing his apologetics cards and practicing speeches for Dad and me.

The tournament opens tomorrow afternoon. We don't have any events tomorrow but do have to attend an orientation since we are new to the league. But...Thursday and Friday will be full 14 hour days filled with speech and debate rounds, judging (for me), timing (for Footloose) and trying to grab a bite in between. Saturday remains to be seen. If the kids "break" (another word for advance) to the next rounds, then they will compete on Saturday as well. If they don't, we'll spend the day helping out in whatever way we can.

To top it off, we're trying to prepare to join Don on business trip to San Francisco.

Like I said....exhaustion! :-)

By the way, I encourage everyone with kids 12 and over who are homeschooled to check out NFCFA. It is a fantastic organization preparing kids to confidently express themselves with respect to anyone. We have been very blessed by the organization and by our local club run and coached by volunteers.

I'll try to update sometime in the next few days.

What to Blog About?

2009-01-11T22:53:00.000-08:00

So, I'm trying to define a purpose in my head for my blog. I do enjoy blogging. I like keeping track of some of my thoughts and pictures. It can definitely be helpful to think out loud so to speak.

I know I do have some regular readers and often wonder how boring and disjointed I sound to others.

As a result, I'm asking myself, "What should I blog about?" What can I say that is interesting and encouraging to those gracious enough to visit me? Should I have a routine? Should I mainly stick to certain subjects? Should I be more focussed? (Coming from a very ADD person, I should always be more focussed. :-))

Just thinking out loud and asking what you might want to hear (or see) from me...and with that, I'm headed to bed for the night. :-)

Field trip Friday

2009-01-09T20:24:00.000-08:00

I love the Pacific Ocean. Really love it! For me, it represents power and serenity all at the same time. The crashing of the waves soothes my soul.

Today, we embarked on a field trip to the Palos Verdes Pennisula where the Pacific streches out for what seems like eternity. We visited a nice interpretive center and then just enjoyed the fresh breeze and gorgeous scenery.

The above photo is looking south (I think...a lot of our beaches here actually face south...) towards the lighthouse.

Looking toward the north:

The view of the ocean from the Interpretive Center:

This is a view of the homes facing the ocean. Yes, each of those is a single dwelling!

We ended the trip with a great time of fellowship over lunch. Our little group has taken so many fantastic field trips and this one was no exception. I am so thankful to have such easy access to such an incredibly beautiful part of creation!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-01-07T07:56:00.000-08:00

Our Friend

2009-01-04T22:19:00.000-08:00

This morning in church we sang the hymn What a Friend We Have in Jesus.

What a Friend we have in Jesus,
all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful
who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden,
cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge,
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake you?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield you;
you will find a solace there.

As I reflect on the words, I am reminded and encouraged that my fellowship in prayer is more than with the Holy God of the universe (as if that were not enough) but it is with my friend...Jesus. The one who pursued me. The one who purchased my fogiveness. The one who desires to meet me at any hour of any day no matter what my mood; no matter what I'm wearing; no matter if I've even brushed my teeth yet or not.

He's waiting. He's waiting to comfort me. He's waiting to counsel me. He's waiting to carry my burdens. He's waiting to listen to me. And...he's waiting for me to listen to Him.

It's only been a few days since I chose my "word of the year"--prayer. But, in those few days, I have spent a lot of time (relatively speaking) renewing my fellowship with Him. I'm learning to take anything to Him and I'm learning to anticipate His answers.

It promises to be a year full of growth as I draw close to Him in prayer. I'm so thankful He's waiting for me. He's waiting for you, too...

A California Sunset

2009-01-02T15:18:00.000-08:00

Sunsets can be truly fantastic here in Southern California. Last Saturday was one of the most beautiful I've seen in a long time. I snapped the photo as we were driving down the freeway on the way to the zoo.

Sites like this never get old...

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T16:43:00.000-08:00

As I've been praying about what my focus should be for 2009, one word keeps coming to mind. I've thought of other words, pondered other words, considered other words but this word keeps coming back.

The word I wish to characterize my life in 2009 is prayer. It seems so simple yet it something I continually neglect and something that shows my lack of faith in God's Word and in His promises.

My ladies' Bible study has been studying prayer for the past few months and I have been challenged and stretched as I contemplate how lacking my prayer life has been. How many times have I lacked wisdom because I simply did not ask? How often does peace elude me because I do not seek God in prayer?

I want to practice praying without ceasing. I want prayer to be my first thought no matter what the circumstance. I want to lift up my husband, my children, my friends. I want each of them, each of you, to know that they are in my prayers and that I labor for them before the very throne of God.

Andrew Murray puts it this way, "Though in its beginnings prayer is so simple that the feeblest child can pray, it is at the same time the highest and holiest work to which a man can rise. Prayer is fellowship with the Unseen and Most Holy One. The powers of the eternal world have been placed at prayer's disposal."

So, at the beginning of this new year, this feeble child of God commits herself to the high and holy work of fellowship with the Most Holy One and looks forward with great anticipation to the growth that will come and the answers that will be received.

Happy New Year, friends! I would love to hear the word you have chosen!

Lesson Planning-Jr. High

2008-12-30T13:15:00.000-08:00

Today's focus is Footloose and the second semester of her 7th grade year!

Here's a list of her course work:

Bible: The Life of Christ from Christian Liberty Press

Math: Saxon 8/7

English 7: Spelling Workout Book G; Applications of Grammar Book 1; Literature using Progeny Press guides

History: We are getting a quick overview of all of world history using two volumes of Story of the World by Susan Wise Bauer for 7th and 8th grade.

Science: Year one of The Rainbow

Music Theory: She's using the same Alfred's book that her brother is.

French 1: Using Bob Jones through The Potter's School

Like her brother, speech club is her favorite time of the week! She is working hard at preparing for four events per tournament. She has quite a knack for humorous interpretation.

An art class on Wednesday afternoons rounds out her busy weeks.

Footloose is a hard working student and a joy to teach every day!

Lesson Planning-High School

2008-12-29T13:05:00.000-08:00

This week is lesson planning week for our second semester. Today I'm focussed on Turned Loose and his sophomore year.

Here's a list of his course work:

Bible:Systematic Theology using Berkhof's Manual of Christian Doctrine

Math: Precalculus (He will actually earn two math credits this year as he took Algebra 2 over the summer and 1st quarter of this year.)

English 10: Advanced Composition (through The Potter's School), grammar review, American lit

History: AP US History (also through The Potter's School)

Chemistry: Using Apologia (again, through The Potter's School)

Latin 2:: The Potter's School

Logic: Advanced Formal Logic (1st semester) and Material Logic (2nd semester) both using Memoria Press Materials

Music Theory: Using Alfred's Essentials

He also works hard at his favorite endeavor-his speech and debate club. Tournament season is upon us so we'll have to work extra hard at staying on track.

High school has certainly been a challenge but the rewards of seeing your now young adult work towards his long term goals are very fulfilling!

Tomorrow...7th grade planning!

A gift for Grandma

2008-12-27T10:16:00.000-08:00

A couple of months ago, my grandma handed me the scrapbook I gave her 10 (no, the zero is not a typo!) years ago for Christmas and told me to finish it. Ten years ago is when I started homeschooling and, well, I really haven't done much of any scrapbooking at. all. since that time. I'm sure my fellow homeschoolers can sympathize.

Plagued by guilt, I realized that the woman is 87 and does deserve to see as many of her photos done as possible, I decided I'd have to do at least a few pages before Chrsitmas. Of course, I procrastinated until the day before Christmas Eve but I finally got four layouts done.

They don't look anything like the beautiful layouts in the scrapbooking store but she seemed to enjoy them and that's what counts. She did try to hand the book right back to me but I shook her off and told her I'd work on some at home and then just bring the pages when I come to visit (which is about 2-3 times a month). She looked skeptical but didn't seem to want to push on Christmas after all.

(I have *no* idea why Blogger is rotating this photo! But, I can't get it to post right...oh well...)

I love that woman and am glad that I could give her something special! Merry Christmas, Grandma!

(BTW, I will definitely be getting this book back when she goes home to the Lord. So, I did scrapbook the original pictures but they are all scanned into the computer in case anyone else would like to have prints.)

Our learning room makeover...

2008-12-26T10:32:00.000-08:00

Footloose approached me a couple of months ago and asked if she could have her room redone for Chrsitmas. After talking it over with Dad, we agreed and started making plans. Somewhat inspired by her idea, I decided to makeover a corner of our "school room" for On the Loose. Being the baby, he has to share and really didn't have a space of his own.

This photo is what it looked like before. It was Footloose's space where she writes her volumes of short stories, books, song lyrics, etc.

Here it is emptied out and vacuumed! She had a lot of stuff under there! :-)

Redone for On the Loose!

The bookcase was repurposed. We moved it in from another space. The baskets contain lots of his toys. One holds all of his Thomas trains. One holds his Duplos. One holds all of his small cars (Hot Wheels, etc.). One holds stuffed animals. You can see his games on the top shelf with the bin that holds all of his art type supplies. The bottom shelf has his Lauri pegs, some puzzles, a few board books, his Magna Doodle and some lacing buttons. On top is his Melissa and Doug wooden clock. The baskets are the only thing new here.

The bench is a new purchase through Company Kids. I think two of the baskets are still empty and one holds all of his gears. It looks like a fun place to read or draw on the Magna Doodle! The table is a new purchase, too. I'm really happy with it! It will last him for several years!

Here was his reaction on Christmas morning. In his defense, he's been sick for two weeks and just wasn't feeling himself. ;-)

And, this is Footloose's new space! This wall previously had nothing on it. The tile system abover her desk is from Pottery Barn Teen. She wanted it for her room re-do (which is still in the process) but it just wouldn't fit anywhere so we put it above her desk.

Hopefully our new space will inspire learning and creativity!

No Room at the Inn

2008-12-25T00:36:00.000-08:00

Our plans were made ahead of time. The five of us were going to go to my grandma's house, take her out to dinner and then join her for a candlelight service at her church. She has attended this church for twenty-six years and this is the first time she has attended a Christmas Eve service. She always tags along with us and does what we have planned.

On the Loose turned out to be sick today (still!) so he and hubby stayed home while the big kids and I carried out the rest of the plan. Our dinner was tasty and the service was lovely. Lots of beautiful Scripture readings and singing of carols that nearly brought tears to my eyes.

As the account of Jesus' birth was being read from Luke, I was struck by the words that there was no room for them in the inn. Can you imagine? Turning away Immanuel--God with us? I wonder if any of those who turned away the Lord that night realized later what they had done. I wonder if any of them eventually trusted Him as their Savior.

Isn't it like the world? We are all so busy and so concerned with our own lives, our own needs, our own busyness, our own...how many times have we, effectively, told Him that there is no room for Him in our "inn?" I am so thankful that He has invaded my life and that He dwells with me but how often to I still turn Him away?

He humbled Himself taking on human flesh to save His people from their sins. Is there room for Him?

He grew in knowledge, stature and wisdom before God and men. Is there room for Him?

He displayed His power by His miracles. He turned water into wine, calmed the storm, healed the sick, raised the dead. Is there room for Him?

He ministered to the less fortunate. He loved them and comforted them. Is there room for Him?

He ate with the sinners and extended His grace to them. Is there room for Him?

He called the little children unto Himself. Is there room for Him?

He subjected Himself to a painful and humiliating death offering Himself as a sacrifice for us. Is there room for Him?

He raised Himself from the dead so that we might be justified before the Father in heaven. He offers us eternal life in His very presence. Is there room for Him?

As we remember the baby in the manger today, may we be ever mindful that God became flesh and dwelt among us that we might become children of God. He gave Himself for us that we might be reconciled to Him. Make room for Jesus. Let Him have your whole heart and love Him with all of your heart, your soul, your mind and your strength.

Merry Christmas, friends. May the peace of the Lord enrich your sould as you make room for Him this Chrsitmas!

New Calendar

2008-12-19T16:15:00.000-08:00

I love a fresh new calendar! Every year I search for the perfect one. In hangs in my kitchen. I like it to be cute but it has to be very, very functional. It needs fairly large grids since we're pretty busy. I don't like cutesy stickers or anything of the kind.

When I think about it, I'm actually quite hard to please in the calendar department. :-) Last night, while out Christmas shopping, I think I found a winner for the year. It actually shows three months at a time and I can configure those months any way I want. I've started transeferring my information and I think I'm going to be happy. Here's the link and here's a photo (or two ;-)) of it hanging in my kitchen:

If you have a favorite calendar, link me to it, please! :-)

Word of the Year for 2009

2008-12-18T22:35:00.000-08:00

At the end of last December, I joined my friends on the message boards at Five in a Row and chose a word I hoped to characterize my life over the course of 2008. My word was *compassion*. I knew that several people in my life would need an extra measure of compassion over the course of the year.

My dad and stepmom both dealt with cancer treatment. My aging grandmother needed more help. My sister had infant twins and is raising them on her own. The Lord impressed compassion upon my heart and gave me a desire to serve these loved ones trying to meet their various needs.

Through the time I have spent showing compassion, I am the one who has been blessed. I have been blessed by the generosity of my grandma. I have been blessed by time spent with my dad and stepmom. I have been blessed to have little Finn and Lucy in my life.

As I look forward to 2009, I have a word in mind. I would like to invite you to join me in choosing a word. Ponder it for a while. On January 1st, I will tell you my word and I would love to hear yours. I plan to share how my word is changing and blessing my life on the first Monday of every month and I hope that you will share with me how your word is impacting your life.

May our lives be changed as we purpose in our hearts to make a change!

And the Winner is...

2008-12-16T11:59:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for having fun with me. :-) Footloose and I read all of the entries and each chose five. We had three of the same five. After a short discussion, we agreed on our five finalists.

We put those five names into Footloose's stocking (made for her the year she was born by my friend Heather...it still looks brand new!). Turned Loose made sure they were mixed well and On the Loose drew a name.

And, the winner is:

Lisa will be receiving the coveted box of chocolate covered strawberries! :-)

Thank you all for sharing your stories with us. Footloose and I thought Ruthanne deserved a special shout out for the funniest entry!

As for me...I received a special gift Christmas of 2006. When our Katherine passed away, I told my husband that I would one day love a piece of jewelry with a sapphire (her birth stone) in her honor.

A few weeks before Christmas, he took me into a local jeweler. We'd had lunch at an Italian place next door and Don knew the jeweler through his involvement with our local Chamber of Commerece. We had been meaning to stop in for some time.

I found a gorgeous ring in one of the cases with three diamonds across the front. I shared with Don that it was exactly what I had in mind but with a sapphire in the center instead of the diamond. We left the store and I forgot about it.

We were celebrating Christmas at home early that year because we had plans to travel to Williamsburg and Washington DC over the Christmas holiday. So, we were having our family Christmas the Sunday before. We were all ready to go to church that morning when Don stopped me at the door and said something was missing. I asked what and he said, "I'm not sure but I think you might find it in Katherine's stocking."

I reached in to her stocking and found a small box. The tears began to flow as I opened the box and found the ring. The diamond had been exchanged for a beautiful sappire that shined like the love in my heart for my dauther in heaven.

I wear it every day and am reminded of her waiting for me and for my husband's gentle love which he constantly showers upon me.

May each one of you bask in the gift of God's love for you this Christmas and I pray that He blesses you and allows you to be a blessing to those around you. You are all a blessing to me.

Merry Christmas, Friends!

2008 Christmas Letter

2008-12-15T15:17:00.000-08:00

All of my cards went out in the mail and I've loved receiving so many. I thought I'd post our annual letter and photo here for anyone I missed. :-) Our letter was written by Footloose this year:

Bonjour! Hola! Aloha! Salve!

Greetings to all in every different language!

Wow- it’s hard to believe another year has whisked by, leaving us all in a whirl of tears and laughter. Our family has had a year of excitement and joy, happily going wherever the Lord takes us. We’ve been to Sedona, Vail, Las Vegas, Bryce Canyon, and Lake Tahoe for the fifth time! Talk about travel!

Dad turned 41 this year- talk about over the hill! He still owns his computer programming business and has been working as hard as ever. He’s also been making monthly trips to San Francisco, one week at a time, to work for a client up there. We sure miss him while he’s gone! But most importantly of all, he’s the best dad anyone could ever ask for.

Mom is now 39, but she doesn’t look a day over 40! She runs the roost every day with selflessness and care, and is the best teacher that ever walked the planet. She loves each and every one of us deeply, almost as much as she adores the Lord.

Turned Loose is… 16?! Where has the time gone? It seems like only yesterday he was running around in diapers. But now he’s grown up, and he’s seriously looking into a career in science. He’s been taking a chemistry class, right along with advanced composition, US History, and his second year of Latin. He sure is a handsome, intelligent young man, and we all love him.

Then there’s On the Loose. The little stinker is 3 years old now! His life basically revolves around trains. Any flat, horizontal surface is officially dubbed a train track. We often find his Duplos, all lined up in a row, on the living room floor with him pulling them around, with a “Choo! Choo!” He’s definitely a high maintenance little fellow, but we still love him. (Most of the time)

As for me, I’d rather be typing away at my latest novel than anything else. Writing is simply what I love best. Music also plays a huge part in my life. My iPod’s always playing, and my headphones have seen better days. But most of all, I live for Him. That comes over everything and dominates all. Nobody in the our family loves anything as much as our Savior.

Our church is thriving and we’re welcoming visitors every Sunday. There’s been quite the blossom of babies in the past year, and On the Loose has found a couple playmates. Turned Loose and I have been participating in an NCFCA Speech and Debate club. It’s become a big part of our lives- we spend three hours every Monday night at club, and, with the tournament season drawing near, we definitely need all the practice we can get!

But most of all, we praise the Lord that He’s given us another year to live to its fullest, and is laying out another one for us to look forward to. We hope that all of you are experiencing the same pleasures and joy as we say ‘goodbye’ to 2008, and ‘hello’ to 2009.

Much Joy and Best Wishes to All,

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.”- Revelation 22:21

PS...Don't forget to enter my Christmas giveaway!

A Chrsitmas Giveaway...:-)

2008-12-12T07:14:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of fun, laughter and friendship, I'm offering a Christmas giveaway!

Here is the prize:

To enter, tell me about your favorite gift you have ever given or received. Footloose and I will choose five of those entries. On the Loose will draw one of those randomly and Turned Loose will supervise for accuracy and honesty--you know, like those accounting firms that keep the Oscars above board.

These are the most delicious berries ever in spite of anything you might have heard to the contrary. ;) I look forward to sharing them with one of you!

We'll choose the winner on Tuesday, Dec. 16th. My blog is set to accept annonymous comments so anyone can play. :) Of course, if you leave a comment, be sure to sign your name so I know who I'm choosing.

Oh...Footloose--Family members will not be eligible to win the prize! :)

Merry Christmas, Friends!

Faithfulness...

2008-12-06T12:17:00.000-08:00

One year ago, almost to the day, I was blessed to deliver a message at a ladies' holiday tea. I thought I'd post it here being that it is the holiday season once again. I pray that it offers encouragement to anyone who listens.

With love to you all...

An Easy,Yummy Treat...

2008-12-05T10:20:00.000-08:00

During this season of Christmas gatherings and cookie exchanges, I find myself looking for quick and easy things to make that will make mouths happy.

I thought I'd share one such "recipe." :-) I call them peanut butter blossoms. They couldn't be easier! The ingredients are simple: a tube of sugar cookie (or peanut butter cookie) dough and a bag of Reese's Peanut Butter cups.

I use my Pampered Chef mini muffin tin. Roll the dough into one inch balls and drop them into the greased (I spray it with Pam) muffin cups. Put them into a pre-heated 350* oven. My oven has to be babysat. It's ancient and doesn't cook consistently. With that in mind, they take about 6 minutes in my oven but I would guess 8-10 minutes in a normal oven. :-) As soon as they come out of the oven, gently push a peanut butter cup into the center of each.

Let them cool completely and enjoy!

Note: You could definitely make your own cookie dough and peanut butter cups from scratch but then it wouldn't be quick or easy...although it would still be yummy!;-)

The Day After Thanksgiving

2008-11-28T16:55:00.000-08:00

Around our house, it is a tradition to pull out the Christmas decorations on the day after Thanksgiving. Today was no exception.

Part of what is special to me is pulling out one particular box. It contains 20 different ornaments that were sent to us four years ago from our friends at Five in a Row. They chose the theme of angels and sent us ornaments from around the country in honor of our Katherine. Those ornaments continue to minister to me each Christmas. I re-read all of the card and letters that came with them and thank God for those who prayed for us and cared for us as we walked that very difficult road.

Thank you, friends. May God fill your holiday season with joy!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T10:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to my family and friends!

I'm thankful today. Thankful for Advil and coffee and a husband who got up with the baby. I woke up with an outrageous headache right over my right eye. Don brought me some Advil and let me sleep for another hour and a half. It was still there when I finally got up but not as bad. Now that I'm sitting with my second cup of coffee, I can feel just the last traces of it.

I'm thankful for my kids! They are a great bunch! The older ones are so helpful (in fact, Footloose is in the kitchen making my "famous artichoke dip" to take to my inlaws' today). Having our "later in life blessing" has been a challenge as he is such a strong willed fellow. Thankfully, we have four "big people" in the house to help tame him.

Speaking of our little Mr. Naughty Pants--how thankful we are for him! He is such a little love bug and he is so funny! He makes us laugh every single day.

I am so thankful for my husband! He is truly my best friend. Recently Footloose said to me, "I just love watching you and Dad together. He loves you so much. I hope I find a guy like that to be my husband." That's my prayer for her, too.

I am thankful for my church family. We are so blessed with our pastor and are so well cared for by our friends. It is such a joy to watch the Body functioning healthily and passionately!

I'm also so thankful for all of you! You make me smile to think that you check in here to see how I'm doing. You share my joys and frustration. Thank you for lending me your ear and for being such good friends!

Happy Thanksgiving! May the Lord bless your family!

A Meme

2008-11-25T16:07:00.000-08:00

OK, I copied this from Sheri's blog...

1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen? Anything action. He has a special affinity for vampire movies. His favorite TV shows are 24, Lost, Prison Break and Heros.

2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad? He usually orders a Ceasar salad.

3. What's one food he doesn't like? Mushrooms! Can't stand them! He can find them anywhere...even those little bity pieces in cream of mushroom soup. He also hates avocado.

4. You go out to the bar. What does he order? Well, we are very rarely in a bar and he almost never drinks. I think I've seen him with a daquari a time or two. That's it. He will order a diet coke instead.

5. Where did he go to high school? Savanna High in California.

6. What size shoe does he wear? 13 wide

7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be? He's not currently collecting but he has a sizable collection of DC comics with an emphasis on Batman.

8. What is his favorite type of sandwich? French Dip.

9. What would he eat every day if he could? Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. :-)

10. What is his favorite cereal? Quaker 100% Granola.

11. What would he never wear? A Speedo. LOL!!

12. What is his favorite sports team? LA Lakers

13. Who did he vote for? Well, I wasn't in the booth with him, but I'm fairly sure he voted for McCain.

14. Who is his best friend? Me. Absolutely, me!

15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do? He wishes I wouldn't get stressed out about things that haven't even happened yet.

16. How many states has he lived in? Just California. Although, I am really trying to talk him into moving to Wyoming. ;-)

17. What is his heritage? English and Scandanavian.

18. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what would it be? Well, I can't bake a cake to save my life but, if I could, it would, without a doubt, be carrot cake!

19. Did he play sports in high school? No but he did play in the band for a year or two.

20. What could he spend hours doing? Admiring my beauty. LOL!!

21. What's something cool about him? He's always willing to admit when he is wrong. I find this very cool!

I love him with my whole heart and can't imagine life without him. He is an amazing husband and father. We are very, very blessed!

A Thanksgiving Short Story

2008-11-24T11:28:00.000-08:00

Unconditionally and Forever
by Footloose

Thanksgiving.

What was so special about it, anyway?

For me, it was a day where I was toted around in the big family van to my grandma’s house with my six sisters and eight brothers. We would eat dry turkey, bland ham, thin gravy, potato salad that desperately needed salt, rock hard rolls, five different cranberry pies- each from different people, all of whom expected you to like theirs the best, and, worst of all, peas. I didn’t get what the big deal with the peas was, anyway. Never once in my life had I read a history book that had noted the Pilgrims eating peas. Then, after the long, tedious meal, my grandmother would take me into the kitchen to wash every single dish we had used that day; I had given up years ago trying to tell her that we should just use paper plates.

After the dishes were done, we’d head into my grandma’s living room and talk. My siblings would talk in detail about their entire personal lives, my parents would speak about how proud they were of them, and all my grandparents, uncles, and aunts would join in. That was another thing- nobody paid attention to me. I was boring old Riley. I didn’t have the potential to become a famous athlete someday like Nick, Elliot, Ryan, and Lilly. I certainly wasn’t going to waltz on stage like a made up clown and act like I’m somebody that I’m not, as Joy, Leah, and Tyler did. My face sure wasn’t going to be smiling out at you from a magazine anytime soon like Alyssa’s, Madeline’s and Ashley’s. And I, most definitely was not talented in music whatsoever, much unlike Michael, Jesse, Cody and Sam.

It seemed that, with my relatives, you had to have something to be included in the conversation. It was ridiculous. The whole thing was. I didn’t know why any of my family cared about the holiday, anyway. Yet, despite my moans every November, they all seemed to love it, and I honestly felt sometimes that they stayed as long as they did, at the Thanksgiving parties, just to prolong my suffering.

And yet, the dreaded holiday was rolling around again. We all bundled up in our warmest coats and headed to Grandma’s. We sat through the long meal, washed dishes, and were just about to sit down to talk when my great grandmother Rose called me to her chair. A little shocked, I stumbled over to her large armchair; I hadn’t really ever talked with her before. She motioned for me to sit down on the floor, and then lay back in her chair, eyes closed.

“Grandma Rose? You still there?”

I asked timidly. She nodded solemnly and slowly opened her eyes.

“Riley, I’ve noticed something different in you. Different than your siblings. You don’t seem to enjoy Thanksgiving as much as them.” I looked down and my shoe and started to play with the peeling rubber on it.

“I can tell that I’m correct,” Grandma Rose chuckled, “Why don’t you like it, Riley?” I sighed and looked up into her serious gray eyes. My grandma had to be at least ninety, and I still marveled at the fact that she could look so stern.

“It’s just that… There’s never seemed to be a point to it!” I finally let out. But to my surprise, Grandma Rose smiled.

“I can understand that, dear. I was the same way when I was around your age. What’s the point of taking the whole day to talk and eat? Right?” I nodded and went back to picking at my shoe.

“And I finally learned from my great grandmother that it’s not about what you’re doing, it’s what you’re thinking about. I know, the Pilgrims get a little old every once in a while. But that’s not the point! The point is that we’re thanking God for what He’s given us.”

“God?” I looked up, skeptically, “I’m not so sure I really trust Him anymore. It seems to me that if he was a good God, he would have prevented Grandpa from dying…” I trailed off as I started to choke. I looked up at Grandma Rose and saw that her eyes were clouded by a light mist of tears.

“You know, Riley, your Grandpa Rick is also my son. And I know full well how hard it is too lose someone you love. But that doesn’t mean that you can completely forget our Lord. God loves us unconditionally and forever. He never ceases. Just think about it.”

She patted me on the head lightly and settled back in her chair. I stood up slowly and huddled in a particularly quiet corner of my grandma’s living room. I thought carefully about what my great grandmother had said. Maybe she was right… Maybe there really was a point to Thanksgiving… Maybe God really did love me?

There was only one answer.

“God…” I whispered, hands clenched tightly together, eyes squeezed shut, “I know there must have been some good reason that Grandpa died, but it’s so hard! Please, God, if you’re there, will you just give me something so that I can know? Thanks… Amen.” I opened my eyes to see my five year old cousin, Sally, skip over to me.

“Riley! Will you play a game with me? Please? Please? Please!” I grinned at Sally as a warm wave of Thanksgiving-happiness swept over me.

“Sure,” I said, “And while we’re at it, how about I tell I tell you the real story of Thanksgiving?”

“Okay!” She responded, beaming as brightly as ever. And as we settled down to play a lively game of Go Fish, I started speaking to Sally about how God provided for the Pilgrims on Thanksgiving by giving them food to eat. How he loved them, and how he loves each and every one of us, too, unconditionally and forever.”

Twilight, the movie...

2008-11-21T09:25:00.001-08:00

My dear husband is planning a date for us this afternoon to see Twilight. He may be the only non-estrogen producer in the audience but he's man enough to handle it. :-)

We're hitting the 3:30 show and then he's taking me out to dinner. I did remind him that a date involves him holding my hand and giving me a kiss goodnight. He promised to deliver!

I'll update later to review the film...

OK, we're back :-):

I have to admit that I was disappointed. The movie does not follow the book much at all. Don asked me when it was over whether or not I thought they left it open to make a movie of New Moon or if they had strayed too far away from the original story. I do think they left enough anchors in it to be able to do the second book.

The casting: I was very happy with Alice! She was the best cast character--most true to the book. I was also happy with the casting of Emmett and Jacob. The rest left something to be desired for me although Jasper was pretty close to how I'd pictured him.

My favorite scene: Eaily the vampire baseball game! It was even better than I imagined it. It really gave the sense of the normalcy of the Cullen family despite the fact that they are so not normal! The tension between the two covens was also played out very well.

My frustration: Most of the movie was invented. I understand the need to leave things out and to add things in to make it flow better in a two hour movie but there were just so. many. things. that were not right and they took away from the story, in my opinion.

I'll leave it at that for now since Amanda told me not to give any spoilers. LOL!!

It was still a fun movie and a fun date with my hubby. :-) I'm going to spend the rest of the evening finishing Breaking Dawn. I'd love to hear what any of the rest of you thought of the movie!

What not to say at Jury Duty...

2008-11-19T21:16:00.000-08:00

I've been called to serve for jury duty now 3 times in the last 3 1/2 years. I don't mind it. I really don't. I'm of the mind that it is my civic duty and, in fact, a privelege I enjoy as a citizen of the United States of America. I don't complain when I'm called and I try to go in with a good attitude. I know that, were I on trial, I would want someone who was focussed and devoted to the process.

I mean, even if I don't get chosen to sit on a jury, I still get a day to sit in the jury room, sip coffee and read a good book without a three year old's interruption. So, today, I headed over to the court house to fulfill my civic duty.

Upon arrival in the familiar jury assembly room, once I had checked in at the counter, I found a seat and pulled out my book. (I'm reading Breaking Dawn right now for those who are wondering which installment of the Twilight series I am enjoying.) This jury room is actually very nice. Large, with comfortable chairs, nice tables and even workstations for those with laptops. It is even equipped with a wireless connection. The cafeteria is immediately adjacent and prospective jurors may grab a snack at any time.

With the first announcement of the morning, my name was called to report (with 59 other jurors) to department C-26. We all trudged up to the 8th floor wondering what would await us. We entered and the voir dire (fancy word for questioning the prospective jurors) began.

It went on and on and on...finally, the attorneys began excusing those whom they did not want on the jury and new prospective jurors were questioned. I found myself in one of those groups.

They day went on and I began sensing that the attorneys were coming close to choosing their final 12 and 2 alternates and I was sure I was going to find myself on this jury; on a case where the charges were kidnapping, car jacking and using a lethal weapon in the comission of the crime.

Then, it happened. A prospective juror sitting behind me said it. While being questioned about whether or not he believed he could be a fair and impartial juror, he drew on his previous work experience in the men's jail. He had worked in food preparation and had supervised a team of inmates. He commented that the defendant, although he was dressed nicely, had on "inmate shoes."

The defense attorney tossed his pen onto the table, rolled his eyes and sighed. The judge's face changed and she immediately called the attorneys to a "side bar" conference. When they returned, her glare was fixed upon the one who had made the fashion observation. She sighed and dismissed the entire jury panel (with her apologies for the extraordinary waste of time our day had become) except for the big mouth. She continued her fixed look of anger upon him and instructed him to stay behind.

I wonder what happened to him. Honestly, I was a little scared for him as I left. I know people come up with all kinds of crazy excuses to get out of their duty but this, obviously, crossed the line.

So, I returned home to my normal life and wait for my next jury summons curious as to what my next experience will bring. It is a fascinating step into our legal system and I am actually thankful for the opportunity to participate.

What board game are you?

2008-11-18T08:47:00.000-08:00

You Are Scrabble

You are incredibly clever and witty. You can talk your way out of (and into) situations easily.

You are an excellent decision maker. You are good at weighing the options in front of you.

You're the type of person who can make something out of nothing. You are very resourceful.

You know a lot of things. Most importantly, you know when people are wrong - even when they won't admit it.

What Board Game Are You?

Very appropriate choice for me! I love Scrabble! I'm always up for a challenge on Facebook (hint, hint). LOL!! I'm not a fantastic Scrabble player but I'm on the "high average" side, I think. I suppose I could be deluding myself. :-) And, don't worry friends, that part about knowing when people are wrong? I'm not out there analyzing you all like that. I usually don't even know when I'm wrong!

By the way, we are safe from the fires and everything seems to be under control. We knew two families who were evacuated but they are both back in their homes. Thank you for praying for us and continue to pray for those around us who have lost everything.

The Orange County Fires...

2008-11-15T20:37:00.000-08:00

For anyone who is concerned about us, we are fine right now but the fires are close...very close!

The closest is only about 3-4 miles from us right now. It seems that much of our area is currently up in flames. There have been thousands evacuated and dozens have lost their homes. The smoke is so thick it is hard to even breathe and it seems to be raining ash everywhere. The high school around the corner from our house is currently a shelter.

I don't know what the night holds for us but we are praying for those who are being affected right now.

Name change here! :-)

2008-11-14T17:06:00.000-08:00

Last February, I posted about giving my kids nicknames. They voted against the names I had chosen and came up with those you see me using regularly here.

Today, I am changing one of their names. Why, you ask? I picked up Screwloose from his driver's training (still hurts to type it--LOL!!) lesson and the teacher said, "He did really well on the freeway today!" What? I thought she was joking; just trying to get a reaction out of me. Reading her face told me she was not joking. :-)

She took my "baby" onto the freeway and he did well? My heart skipped a beat or two. Those who live here in Southern California (or who have driven here) will know why. The freeways here are insane! Drivers are aggressive, distracted and, sometimes, downright reckless. Not only did she take him out on the freeway but she took him out at 3pm on a Friday afternoon! Rush hour, southern California, beginning of the weekend...I'm really glad I didn't know ahead of time (although Screwloose said he told me this was today's lesson--I must have blocked it out LOL!!) or I would have been a nervous wreck!

All this to say that my son has been turned loose on the freeways of Southern California! He is no longer Screwloose, but shall, from now on, be known as Turned Loose! To all of my local friends: You have been duly warned! LOL!!

Junie B. Jones....or?

2008-11-11T22:18:00.000-08:00

Footloose is participating in speech this year through NCFCA. One of the speeches she is working on is a humorous interpretation cut from a Junie B. Jones story.

If you've ever read Junie B., you'll know that every story starts the same, "My name is Junie B. Jones. The B stands for Beatrice except I don't like Beatrice. I just like B and that's all!" So, we've been hearing this opening endlessly around our house. So endlessly, in fact, that On the Loose has gotten in on the act.

At first, he was saying, "My name is Junie B. Jones. Except I don't like Christmas. I just like B and that's all." He finally got it right, though, and has been saying it often.

However, Footloose just came out of their shared room to tell me his new version (by the way, it is 10:22 pm and he should be asleep!). Anyway, here's what he's saying, "My name is crybaby. The B stands for baby except I don't like baby. I just like B and that's all!"

You know, almost a year ago, my pediatrician was showing great concern for my little guy because he was only saying a small handful of words and not stringing any of them into sentences. I wonder what he will think when he sees On the Loose next?

Clutter...where does it come from?

2008-11-11T13:56:00.000-08:00

Does it multiply while I'm sleeping? Does it invite its friends without consulting me? Is it a conspiracy of my children? Is it simply the product of 5 people and all of their stuff in my 1482 sq. foot house?

Whatever the explanation, it drives me crazy! Why does every horizontal surface in the house attract clutter like a magnet? Why do things not make it back to there designated place? Does everything even have a designated place?

Here's an example of what I mean--this is the floor to ceiling bookcase in my "school room":

It probably doesn't look horrible at first glance, but if we look a little closer:

Here is an assortment of cell phone and camera battery chargers:

And, here we see where I stashed a whistle that I did not want to hear during school hours and two decks of cards I was sick of picking up over and over again!

Here is the paper and envelopes I just purchased for our Christmas letters. Why did I put them on the shelf that holds the current year's school books? Because I had company coming and didn't want them sitting on the kitchen counter.

And, here is my stash of cookbooks and cooking magazines. The problem? I never use them because I hate cooking! LOL!! There are also three index card file boxes that have not been used in years but sit there anyway. Why?

And, for good measure, here is the top of the piano on another wall in the same room. None of us plays the piano...it just collects clutter. Here we see papers that need filing, assignment sheets and lesson plans in the making.

All this is symptomatic of the whole house! Lots of stuff. Lots of stuff out of place. I'm going to tackle these two hot spots and I'll let you know how it goes. If I'm not back soon, send someone in after me! It means I'm buried and the stuff won!

Smile!

2008-11-06T11:37:00.000-08:00

Footloose is out of braces! Here are some pictures I promised my mom (Hi Mom!!). :-)

Before:

During:

After:

A lovely transformation in a little under 18 months!

That it might impart grace to the hearers...

2008-11-05T10:16:00.000-08:00

In recent days I have become guilty of allowing myself to get caught up in negativity. It has been discouraging and depressing. Why do I, as a Christian, slip into this? Because I'm a sinner--no better than anyone else--and I fall into temptations of all kinds.

What I have learned:

I have not been spending enough time reading my Bible. If I had, I would not have suffered the way I have. ("How can a young man [or a nearly 40 year old woman] keep his way pure? By living according to your Word." Psalm 119:9)

I need to tame my tongue and sit on my fingers. With the advent of easy access to all things online and the ability to not have to face each other, our fingers can fly and the damage is done the minute we hit "send." ("..but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and wilth it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth comes praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be." James 3:8-10)

Christians are not always gracious (and that includes me!) and that is damaging to our witness.("A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 14:34-35)

In order to live in unity, we must strive to build each other up; not tear each other down. ("Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths [or your keyboards], but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" Ephesians 4:28-29; 31-32)

I need to stick to my own business and let God deal with every one else. ("Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house [or website to website]. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to." 1 Timothy 5:13)

As I have reflected, I've realized that I don't need to say everything I'm thinking. I need to think before I speak (or type) to make sure that my words are seasoned with grace and that they are edifying. I need to be understanding and forgiving of others; especially giving my fellow Christians the benefit of the doubt. Just because something is true doesn't mean it needs to be said; it can still be gossip and it can still be destructive. And, most of the time, I need to mind my own business.

My thoughts here are directed at myself. I seek forgiveness for anyone who was affected by any of my negativity (including my own family) and ask that you would encourage me in being positive and loving.

My prayer is that those who claim Christ would interact with their brothers and sisters in love so that others will see us and know that He is merciful, forgiving and the One who reconciles!

(Just a note: the things which led me to these realizations were not related to any of my FIAR friends.)

With love in Him,

Twilight...

2008-11-04T10:12:00.000-08:00

OK, I admit it! I have guilty pleasure...I have been reading the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. Who would have thought that I would be reading, let alone enjoying, a series of books written for teens that weaves a tale of vampires and werewolves?

I'm currently on page 400 of the second book: New Moon. At this moment, I'm irritated with Edward (and hoping he redeems himself), feeling sympathetic towards Jacob and so very happy to see Alice! I'll have to go get the third book so that I don't have to endure a break in the action when I'm done with this one (which will undoubtedly be today or tomorrow)! I've actually had to buy them because, would you believe, there is a waiting list a mile long at the library and I'm not a very patient person.

I resisted this temptation when I heard my friends talking about the books. But, my sister called a few weeks ago so excited about the books she'd been reading. She admitted that she rarely even reads a book and she was just over the top for these. She asked me to read them and who am I to turn down my younger sister? So, here I sit...sucked into a "vampire book." LOL!!

When Footloose found out I was reading them she exclaimed, "Mom! You're gonna have nightmares! You're freaked out by vampires!" She then told Screwloose what I was reading and he cautiously warned saying, "Mom, you're going to have nightmares." Guess what? I haven't had a single one! So there! LOL!!

I've chatted with my sister about them now a couple of times. It's been great having something to share that is so fun. I've also had fun comparing vampire myths with hubby who is somewhat of a vampire movie expert. :-)

I've had a tough couple of weeks and this has been such a fun escape. Thanks to my sister for her enthusiam and to my friends who told me to go ahead and read it!

Edward? Where are you?

The Night Before...

2008-10-30T21:11:00.001-07:00

I wanted to share what happened on Tuesday night. The night before the anniversary of Katherine's passing.

It was Tuesday night. Every Tuesday night we go to a local, family owned Mexican restaurant. Most of us order the same thing. Our regular server doesn't even bother to bring us menus and she knows our order well.

This week, Don decided to order the carne asada-the whole steak-while he usually orders a carne asada taco. It was with his first bite or two that the problem occurred. This is a recurring problem for him. His food will get "stuck" in his esophagus and refuse to go down. It's a painful experience for him and a scary experience for those of us watching.

Usually, the food will go down eventually. This time it was stubborn. It doesn't affect his breathing but causes great discomfort. I finally asked if he thought he should seek medical attention. He finally relented. Never before had it come to this.

So, we headed off to the hospital...the hospital where Katherine was born...on the night before the anniversary of her death. I could feel my anxiety building. This is the third year in a row we have ended up in that ER during the months of September and October; right in the middle of her birth day and her death day.

They attempted to treat him with medication but it wasn't working. As I was sitting by his bedside, the doctor walked in and told us that he was to be admitted for the night and that a GI team would do an endoscopy the next morning. I sat-stunned. He turned to me and asked how it would affect the next day. I started to cry and said, "It's just that...Katherine..."

I could not bare the thought of my husband in *that* hospital, having a "procedure" on the anniversary of our daughter's death. I told the doctor why I was so upset and I could see the look of compassion on her face. She left us alone to talk about it. After a few minutes, I went to the waiting room to tell the kids.

Several minutes later, the doctor and our attending nurse came back in and told us that the GI doctor had decided to do the procedure that night and that he would be there in 30 minutes. I'm convinced that the compassion of that ER doctor was a factor in the GI doctor deciding to come in that night.

I talked to the kids again. I took them home, put the baby to bed and headed back to the hospital for the procedure. Thank the Lord that we live so incredibly close to this hospital and that we had this option.

The procedure began about 10:45 and I was back with Don by about 11:20. It went well and they did a repair on his esophagus that should prevent this problem from happening anymore. He was discharged shortly after and we were home right at midnight...just minutes before the calendar rolled over to October 29th.

The thought of being in the hospital on that day was overwhelming to me. But, God, in His mercy allowed a sensitive doctor to motivate others in order to allow us to be together and *not* in the hospital on that day. I am so thankful for His provision and His protection over my husband.

So, another milestone has passed and we bask in His care for us!

Blessed Be the Name of the Lord!

2008-10-29T01:07:00.000-07:00

Four years….

Four years ago, today, our dear little daughter entered her heavenly rest. I admit…I’m struggling with it a bit right now. I miss her. I wonder what she would be like. What would she be learning now? Would she be funny like her sister or more serious like her older brother?

Today, I really feel the loss. There will be no first trip to Disneyland. She won’t excitedly show me her first lost tooth. I won’t teach her to add. We won’t bake cookies together. There will be no secrets to tell me.

The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away;
Blessed be the name of the Lord.

I can honestly say that my faith has never wavered due to the loss of my daughter. I do wonder why her time with us was so short and I would do anything to have her back with us but I trust in the Lord’s perfect plan and, like Job, I can declare, “Blessed be the name of the Lord.”

During her short life and in the months following, we were so thankful to see God’s work in our own lives and the lives around us. We literally had people from all over the world praying for us, thinking of us, helping with meals, and even contributing to our mounting medical bills.

Some wrote to us with stories of recommitting their lives to the Lord as a result of following our story. Some wrote with stories of forgiveness and reconciliation. Some told us how their prayer lives had been renewed as they were on their knees for us.

After Katherine died, the medical bills began to roll in. All told, they amounted to right at $1 million dollars for her six weeks with us. But, the Lord provided there as well. Her condition coupled with the fact that she never left the hospital qualified her for California Children’s Services. That program took care of the vast majority of the expenses.

But, I want to testify to the more of the Lord’s goodness where the finances were concerned. Some friends of ours made our needs known to a broad audience. Money began to pour in. They raised enough money to take care of the delivery portion of Katherine’s birth that our insurance did not cover.

Another friend had contacted me via e-mail and excitedly told me to look for something in the mail. She was sending something. I waited with great anticipation and, soon, an envelope came. It contained an amazing letter from my friend and a money order for just under $500. She told me how a teen aged daughter of a dear friend of hers had heard of our story and was so moved that she had to do something. She sought permission from a local store manager to hold a bake sale in Katherine’s honor in front of the store. The money order was the fruit of that sale. Just a few days before I opened that letter (and a few weeks after her passing), we had received a bill related to Katherine’s treatment in the mail that was just under $500. What an amazing provision.

We can clearly look back and see how He has provided for us again and again from the spiritual to the physical to the emotional realm! We praise Him because He cares for us. We long to join our Katherine in heaven and to behold the One who has not abandoned us!

My prayer for you, friends is this-in your life, when the Lord gives and the Lord takes away, you will bless the name of the Lord. He is Good and His steadfast love endures forever!

(PS...I want to also offer my love and prayers today to my friend Amanda. Amanda's Abigail would have been 13 today. Amanda, I love you, I remember Abigail with you and I pray that the Lord will wrap His loving arms of comfort around you.)

Sharing a Homeschool Treasure

2008-10-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to share one of my favorite homeschooling sites:

Homeschool Share

Homeschool moms are so incredibly resourceful and creative and those who participate at HSS are no exception! Plus, they are willing to share it with all of us. This is a great thing to those who, like me, don't have a creative bone in their bodies.

There are so many incredible free resources all in one place. Really--something for everyone! They have also, recently, added message boards so that you can actually hang out with the creative ladies. :-)

Don't miss this wealth of information! Thank you, Ami, and your team, for offering such a great place for homeschooling moms!

Fall! Glorious Fall!

2008-10-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

Or...at least somewhere, I'm sure it's glorious! I have a romantacized version of fall in my head where leaves transform into brilliant colors and gracefully make their way to the ground where tiny little feet crunch, crunch, crunch in them.

Somewhere, the deep hues of orange, red and yellow burst forth in magnificence! I'm sure that there is a chill in the air and the scent of a comforting fire wafting about. In my mind's eye, there are families giggling as they snuggle together to drink warm, spiced apple cider.

In reality, I live in Southern California where it is 95 degrees today and the Santa Ana winds are blowing. The only leaves on the gound are the ones that the the winds have forcefully removed from the trees. There are no fantastic colors. In fact, each "season" here looks virtuall the same as the last.

Don't get me wrong--I am completely content where the Lord has placed me. I live close to my elderly grandmother and have the blessing of having her as a integral part of my family's life. My husband works close to home and doesn't fight the California commute. My neighbors are wonderful.

But, I do dream of experiencing a true fall! One day, maybe, I'll find myself on a fall foliage tour in New England and be just giddy. I'll wear a warm sweater and sip hot chocolate while I walk along a quiet road. I'll fall asleep content with my new experience.

Until then, I am living vicariously through the blogs I visit. I'm thankful that some of my fellow bloggers have shared their falls in both pictures and words with me! Candace in the south; Dawn in New England; Ann in Canada.

If you have any beautiful fall photos on your blog, drop me a line with your link so I can live vicariously through you, too! Enjoy your fall, wherever you may live!

Looking for some encouragement?

2008-10-20T10:44:00.001-07:00

If you look to the sidebar to the right of my posts, you will see some other blogs that I like to visit. Each of them is encouraging in their own way.

Today, in particular, I'd like to encourage you to read Ann's blog. Her cyber home is a place of beauty and refreshment. Today's entry spoke volumes to me and I wanted to share it with you.

I pray that "extreme faith" would be what characterizes me!

If you have any blogs you visit regularly that bring you joy and encourage you in your day to day walk, please drop me a comment and share them with me. I'd love to know what you're reading.

The Twins are a Year Old!

2008-10-18T21:51:00.000-07:00

One year ago, I had the privelege and blessing of being with my baby sister on the day she delivered her perfect little twins. Finn and Lucy were born in the early evening on October 17, 2007. I am sworn to secrecy regarding which one arrived first. :-) It doesn't really matter which of them cried first. What matters is that they are so incredibly adorable and that they have a fantastic Mama who has proven that she is more than capable of caring for two babies! I'm very proud of my baby sister and I am head over heels for the twins.

Here are some photos of their party today:

Footloose with Lucy:

Auntie Ronette and Auntie Janette with Finn and Lucy:

Me with Lucy:

Lucy's Cake:

Finny's Cake:

Happy birthday, guys! Auntie loves you! Kisses and Hugs!

Do you see more grey hair today?

2008-10-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

On me. Not on yourself.:-)

Where in the world has the time gone? On the Loose looks like the identical twin of Screwloose at that age. Wasn't it yesterday that Screwloose was asking me to play blocks with him; to make him a sandwich; to sit down so he could sit in my lap?

Today marks the beginning of a new era: Screwloose is beginning driver's ed! How can my little guy be considering getting behind the wheel of my car? I still picture him in the carseat in the back pointing out all of the police cars on the road. I still hear him asking me a million questions from behind while his mind worked non-stop.

I just cannot believe that he is approaching adulthood and that he will soon drive out of my sight onto his own adventures without his mom to keep an eye on him and protect him.

It's so hard to let go and to watch him grow. On the other hand, it is exciting to see what the Lord might call him to do and to watch how he will follow. My prayer is that he will take all of the things his dad and I have taught him and go out and make a place for himself all the while showing compassion and generosity to those around him.

Drive safe, son. The road before you is full of twists and turns. Your dad and I will always be home to re-direct you when you get lost and give you directions along the way.

National Day of Remebrance

2008-10-15T08:50:00.000-07:00

October 15th is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

As you all know, we are a family who suffered the loss of an infant and we join together in prayer today for all those who have endured a similar loss.

May God comfort all those whose babies have preceded them to heaven.

A Kid Funny...

2008-10-12T21:49:00.000-07:00

This afternoon, I informed On the Loose that we would be having company this evening. He asked who was coming. "Pastor Bob," I answered. This met with much excitement as Pastor Bob is his "favorite." ("Favorite what?" asked Pator Bob. LOL!!)

Anyway, he asked who else was coming so Footloose answered, "Mrs. M and Pastor Mike."

"Who else?" The excitement was growing.

Footloose didn't know who else would be here so she answered, "Well, God will come, too."

No answer from On the Loose.

Tonight, our comapany began to arrive for the scheduled Bible study. We were very pleasantly surprised to see Howard. (We all love Howard! :-)) On the Loose got up onto the couch next to Howard and Howard began making some funny faces at him. He looked at Howard and said, "You're funny, God!"

I thought I would die laughing. He obviously had used process of elimination. Pastor Bob, Mrs. M and Pasotor Mike were all accounted for so, of course, this must be God. :-)

I think it's going to take a while to straighten him out. LOL!!

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Enjoying the Lake

2008-10-08T10:01:00.000-07:00

We have been having such a great time in Lake Tahoe. The kids have been having a ball spending time with my mom (they call her "Ma") whom they haven't seen in a year and a half. We've laughed and we've played.

On Monday, we took a leisurely drive around the lake and stopped for a hike at Emerald Bay. It's a steep mile down and a steep mile back up but the views are worth it!

Isn't it just beautiful? It's no wonder this is our favorite place to be together!

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Are We There Yet?

2008-10-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid, every parent joked about their kids demanding from the back seat, "Are we there yet?" (Add the whining and imagine the question every 15 minutes.)

Yesterday, we drove 400 miles through the middle of California. Mile upon mile of pistachio trees, grapevines and cows--millions of cows! About every 15 minutes, from the back seat, came the question, "Where are we going, Mommy?" I must say that I apologize for rolling my eyes at my own parents for relating my own back seat antics over the years. Seriously, this should be used as a "technique" for getting the enemy to spill his guts. I wanted to bang my head against the wall. :-)

This morning I sit typing in Sacramento, across the street from the beautiful California State Capitol. In an hour we will take On the Loose to the California State Railroad Museum where he will spend a couple of hours in three year old heaven.

Later, we will make the hundred mile trek through the mountains and get that first view of our beloved Lake Tahoe. My mom is meeting us there this afternoon and we will spend a week sharing our favorite spots with her, playing games, laughing, walking in the brisk morning air and admiring the changing color of the leaves.

Family memories will be lovingly painted in our minds and, in the years to come, we will chuckle over the sounds from the backseat, "Where are we going, Mommy?"

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Freedom

2008-09-27T08:09:00.001-07:00

I've had this post brewing in my mind for several days. I'm still not sure that I can really convey what I'm thinking but I'll try. :-)

For forty-eight hours every calendar year, the National Archives allows for the original Emacipation Proclamation to be displayed at some location. This year it was to be displayed at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California.

After church on Sunday, we made the two hour trek to the Library. As we approached the hill on which the Library sits, we were confronted with a sign delcaring that the tickets to see the Proclamation were sold out for the day. Disappointed, we decided to tour the museum anyway. It was well worth it! What a great historical museum! We were even able to board Air Force One (the *actual* plane used by seven Presidents) which was staged as it would have appeared during Reagan's terms as President.

As we finished our tour, we started hanging around the room where the Proclamation was being displayed in hopes of slipping in. Don finally approached a lady who worked there to ask her if there was any chance of seeing it and she handed him five tickets for the 5:30 showing!

We immediately got in line and, eventually, filed past the document. It was so basic. It didn't look spectacular. It was worn and faded and barely even readable anymore. But what a legacy it is! I was still awe stricken to be standing before this "simple" declaration which changed history! I was so moved thinking about the emancipation of so many people-people of full worth because they were created in the image of God.

As I continued to think about it in the coming days, I reflected on my own "Emancipation Proclamation"--the death and resurrection of Christ! As I read my Bible I see that He seemed plain and unassuming just like the pages I stood before last week. Yet, His acts were spectacular! He gave His own perfect life that I might be emancipated--freed from my life long bondage to sin; freed from my due penalty of death.

Not only was I freed from those things but I was freed in order to serve Him with the rest of my life. I don't do it begrudingly or out of compulsion feeling like I "owe" Him for His pardon. I do it out of love for the Savior who sacrificed everything because of His love for His people and His desire to emancipate them.

True freedom allows to fully love the One who freed us! It's not really plain, unimpressive or unassuming at all, is it? Perspective changes everything!

Enjoy your freedom!

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