Oak Blossoms

Free Time

2011-12-31T16:47:00.001-08:00

While nursing my youngest, I admit I sometimes read blogs or play mind numbing games on my ipad. Today a post I read centered on free time. I have tried to make free time lately. I have listened to many mothers and fathers who desire free time. I know I get my panties in a bunch at least once a week over my lack of free time.

You know what. I live in one amazing society if I can whine about free time. Sure I spent quite a bit of brain power figuring out that I am an introvert, so I need that time.

Don't fool yourself. Free time with five kids might start to look real different. Getting to pee by yourself starts to look mighty fine. Sneaking a cup of coffee while a baby sleeps on you and your toddler watches some dancing rat might qualify as free time.

Somewhere there needs to be a transition. Like when I realized you can do all sorts of stuff while you nurse a baby. But, then I had my fourth child who I had resigned myself to never having. I realized the best thing you can do while nursing is to stare in those little eyes. Talk to them and kiss them. Tell that sweet child little stories. Count those few fleeting moments like little bridges to heaven. That is free time.

Free time needn't be shopping or coffee breaks at the MegaMermaid. It can be time to refill our love tanks with someone special and the absence of consumerism and screens. Have some free time with a picnic, in a garden, or
on the beach.

Vision Forum giveaway for Christian Books at Modest Mouse

2011-11-21T08:41:00.001-08:00

http://www.themodestmomblog.com/2011/11/60000-vision-forum-gift-card-giveaway.html

I wanted to pass along this link to the vision forum giveaway at Modest Mom!

November Meal Planning

2011-11-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

I always find things I want to make. But, then I look in my pantry and I am missing stuff. Sometimes, when I work on my weekly plan there just isn't room for a few ingredients. In September, I started planning for October. I made a folder to save the new recipes for October. When it started looking a bit too much, I think around 20, I started November. This worked so well for me. I looked through them all and added those staples to my first shopping list. I was able to do most of them for October. It really helped to mix up my normal go to recipes like chili, enchiladas, tacos, homemade pizza, pasta and sauce. So, here are my picks for November.

Breakfast

If I can actually get up in the morning and make something for breakfast. SURPRISE! My crew will wake up early, too. They are so much happier with something to eat. If I remember I will set out stuff the night before. I can mix up dry stuff and put them in the mixing bowl. The bright green one that has it's own lid. The one that used to seem so big before I had a teenager.

Mocha Coconut Banana Bread

Orange Glow Muffins

Protein Porridge

Soup
It is starting to get cold. I love soup. It is cheap. I can usually make it in the crockpot. When put in the crockpot at breakfast time, it is usually read for lunch. Hot lunch makes homeschooling just a little bit better. Already prepared hot lunch makes me feel like I almost have a maid or cook or mother's helper.

Gluten Free Goddess's Mulligatawny soup with Jasmine Rice

Humboldt Soup

Dinner

For some reason dinner is the hardest meal of the day for me. I don't really like dinner. Everyone in my house likes something different for dinner. My husband and the 14 year old man er boy...whatever he feels like that day...think they need meat and man food. My 11 year old is a staunch vegetarian. My 8 year old wants to eat and run. My toddler wants to eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. The baby wants to slap my spoon and nurse at the same time. I could eat chili and rice or stir fry and rice EVERY SINGLE NIGHT. If I was feeling warm I might eat a smoothie. Oh, and the budget. Our budget is tight. My compromise? They don't get to complain unless they help. I buy meat maybe once a month and it is usually I really good sale. Our local store often has B1G1F. I can usually get nice chicken or roasts in a family pack. So, I can get a lot of meals out of those. I am totally digging on the lentils, too.

Lentil and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers.

Crockpot Pizza Potatoes

Eggplant Veggie Burgers

Spaghetti and Red Lentil Balls

I made the lentil balls and they were awesome. No one complained. Well, at least not the annoying kind. But, everyone ate. No one said they had a stomach ache. I even made some Vegan Parm. I used half raw almond and half nutritional yeast. I whizzed that up in my vitamix very carefully. I was afraid of making nut butter. I ended up adding salt to taste. I felt like it needed some saltyness. I feel like such a dummy mummy for waiting so long to make Vegan Parm. It is so expensive and the jar is so little. I think I spent maybe 2 or 3 bucks and the jar is huge. It is so yummy and full of protein and B12. What isn't to like about that?

2011-06-27T06:30:00.000-07:00

Found a new blog while searching for Vegan menus. Fimby is full of natural things and simple beauty.

I spent Saturday trying to find alone time. I let the boys play games and veg. But, first I knocked out the pile of dishes and laundry. I gave each boy one major chore. Little flower got herself a really plush bed and lots of babies in her giant play pen. I think I really needed that. I knew I wouldn't get to go anywhere and my fuse was short. But, it sure feels good.

::Things I need to do this week::
Finishing revamping chorepacks
Wash all the windows...they get dirty and moldy over the winter since the back half of the house is partially in the ground.
Oldest is hanging up the laundry we got behind on.
Read more in Siblings without rivalry...these boys drive me nuts. I get tired of yelling, leave me alone and the oh so popular..you are such a turd.
Make a Trader Joes list. I realize we haven't been there in a few months. Seems strange.

One Thousand Gifts post 1 Being Thankful

2011-06-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

I have been working on some reading for myself. Currently it is One Thousand gifts by Ann Voskamp.

Here I am on page 40. I tried to close the book at the beginning after the heart wrenching stuff. The stuff I don't want to read or hear about because I don't want to cry. I don't want to put myself in that place.

But, this quote makes it worth it.

I would never experience the fullness of my salvation until I expressed the fullness of my thanks every day...

From the Joy of Vegan Baking

2011-04-09T15:35:00.001-07:00

From the Joy of Vegan Baking, a photo by OakBlossoms on Flickr.

These were delicious bars. I doubled the recipe, used canola oil instead of Earth Balance, and Marionberry preserves instead of raspberry. These would be a great breakfast bar for on the go mornings. The jam gets a bit gooey, but it sets up nice by the next morning. Of course, I only had one bar left to enjoy by the next morning. So, you might consider making them after the kids go to bed.

Arrival of Ocean

2011-03-17T18:30:00.000-07:00

Our newest little addition arrived at what we thought was 39 weeks. My water broke at home at 5:30 am which put me on edge right away. I have always had my children with in 15 or 20 minutes of my water breaking. I didn't think I would make it to the birthing center. So, I called my midwife and laid down on the bed while my husband let my parents know we were leaving.

The little one arrived just after 2:00 pm. He wasn't breathing well and was covered in vernix.

He has struggled with nursing from the start. Which is all new territory to me. He lost enough weight and could not keep up his temp that we ended up in the hospital within his first week. It was a bit traumatizing. But, the hospital we were at was amazing. Everyone was so wonderful to us. We were treated amazingly. I have a previous experience with a Children's Hospital that was downright horrible. But, any concerns were elevated immediately. They made sure to not only care for my boy, but they made sure I had plenty to eat and plenty of water. They brought me sterilized bottles and nipples since I have had to pump. It help so much because I have never had to pump before. I have never had to see my baby not eat. I have never had to deal with all these emotions that I am dealing with.

I have moments where I feel like we are bonding enough. I feel so sad that this pregnancy cut my nursing relationship short with my only girl. I was hoping with this new arrival that I would be tandem nursing to ease any engorgement. I pictured us all snuggled in bed together. Instead, I am still working to keep up my supply. Ocean is still struggling to gain weight.

But, I am trying to shake those moments off. I am striving to enjoy the few moments here and there, when he actually latches on...even if it's only with a nipple shield. I am enjoying just having my little girl snuggled up next to us on the couch. You know the couch that has turned into my bed. Because I have to get up so often at night to feed him and rinse out the pumping stuff and grab a new bottle....and do all these things I didn't before. I am trying to look forward to when we will just get to lay down in bed and snuggle. Where night time is when I tuck my arm around my baby and let him nurse when he wants. I know it will happen. I just know it will happen.

Pumping...

2011-03-12T20:36:00.002-08:00

I haven't found the time to share our journey so far with our newest addition. But, I wanted to share something funny before I forget. Our little girl was walking around with a bottle and she held it up to her little breast and made pumping sounds. I didn't know if I should laugh or cry. I would like for her to be imitating nursing her baby. But, I chose to laugh. Because she was imitating. Our new little baby is getting breastmilk and I believe he will transition to the breast once he catches up to his due date.

To Stress or not To Stress

2011-02-15T14:11:00.000-08:00

I have been limiting what things I take in lately. There are things mounting that I have no control over. Things I cannot make happen. I have been ignoring those blogs where women share perfect pictures of crafty things I can never make or old houses with perrfectly beautiful imperfections.

I really have to focus on some good stuff and NOW. I cannot have a baby within this negative cloud.

I crawled up into my husbands lap this afternoon. I kissed his great big bushy Amishy beard. I said...I thought when we were dating our life would be just like all those road trips where we jumped in the little Justy or Brat (yes we both had Subarus) and we would go where we wanted, when we wanted. No one told me how stressfull it could get. No one told me I cou loose thst Peace.

Funny...he says...I was just thinking the same thing...We would just wish to drive off to Oregon and off we went.

I have posted a few links from here lately. Her post popped into my mailbox shortly after I climbed in bed this afternoon. My husvsnd took the boys to their PE class. I paid the rest of the Auto Insurance...thank you automated I don't have to speak to anyone phone line...and hoped on before taking a much desired nap.

I hope these post help you with your anxiety. Push aside a few things. Slow down a bit even if it is just today. Give someone a kiss. Realize road trips aren't so easy with five kids, but they can be planned and they can still happen.

Searching for Inspiration...

2011-02-08T10:16:00.000-08:00

I have been searching for s little happiness in my life. I am trying to focus on the positives. It seems like a lot of work sometimes. It is probably just the winter. It is probably a whole lot of the stress of seeing things that need to get done and jobs that need to happen. I remember when I moved bsck to Washington. I had peace and I felt good. I was thin, full of energy and ate well. I have those moments here, but I really wish I could find that place again although I know it would have to be a bit different considering things are different.

::Naughty things to eat::
Skillet Cookies

::Funny Things to Watch::
God is Not a White Man

::Prayerful Things::
A New Way to Pray from Relevant Magazine

::Things to Read::

Happy Groundhogs Day!

2011-02-02T12:34:00.000-08:00

I have to share a dream that woke me up very early this morning. Pregnancy always beings on the craziest dreams for me. But, this one had perfect timing. I dreamt I was naked and I felt like the baby was coming. I reached down and then looked down and the baby was coming out and in the caul. But, I was like it isn't time yet and he went back in. When I woke I realized it was Groundhogs Day. And, today in Washington State there is no rain and the sun is shining amazingly bright.

Thinking about simplicity in 2011

2011-01-02T17:40:00.000-08:00

Well, 2011 is here. Several years ago I realized I had a sometimes over the edge attachment to things. I started trying to simplify. In the midst, We added another child and now there will be another soon. I have that nesting thing going on. I am craving a big move. I love moving. My third child asked me this week what my favorite things were. I told him moving. He laughed because he thought I meant the ability to move. I mean moving to a new home. I love throwing out and donating as we pack. I love getting there and not opening boxes till we need them. I love putting the glasses away in new clean shelves. I love the smell of fresh paint (even the low voc stuff has a smell).

Here are some Other bloggers to help you get started:
SimpleMom has a list of questions if you are feeling thoughtful.

Raising Olives encourages you to read your Bible.

Enjoy and celebrate the seasons.

And, two of my favorite boards are holding the 2011 in 2011 decluttering challenge. Here and Here.

.

Meditating on this New Year

2010-12-29T11:30:00.000-08:00

I am not a fan of resolutions.
It makes me feel like I am setting myself up to fail.
I didn't finish that photo project last year. I guess I could try agsin this year.
I did get dreads and I love them.

I have been inspired to meditate on this New Year instead.
I am going to give praise for what is yet to come.
I have no idea what God has in store for us.
I know we are coming to the end of schooling for my husband.
I know we are depending on God's provision for a suitable job.
I know a little boy is due sometime in March.
I know I will turn 35 this year.

Terra Organics

2010-12-21T17:23:00.001-08:00

regularbox
Originally uploaded by Terra Organics

We had to let our Terra Organics order lapse for awhile. I have been a bit bummed about it and trying to work it back into our budget.

When I saw this today I realized I NEED to get it back into our budget. I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.

This weeks Menu

2010-12-03T06:38:00.000-08:00

Well, this week starts up on Friday. I plan to shop early on Friday morning. We usually visit with friends that day. But, that will have to wait to see how shopping goes. I am using my printable shopping list again. We follow the menu from my last week for the entire month. We were able to really stretch our budget and fit in some goodies, as well.

Breakfast

F-Muffins or Granola Bars

S-Waffles or French Toast

S-Cold cereal or leftovers

M-Pancakes

T-Hot Cereal with honey

W-Eggs or breakfast burritos

T-Oatmeal

Lunch

F-Fruit, Crackers, Cheese, deviled Eggs

S-Quesidillas or leftovers

S-Leftovers/Fend for yourself OR English Muffin Pizza & Salad

M-Chickpea or tuna salad sandwiches/melts

T-Grilled Cheese & baked beans or soup

W-Peanut Butter and Jelly on bread/tortillas

T-Mac and Cheese & frozen veg

Dinner

F-Pizza

S-Snackies, pizza leftovers, poppers

S-Dad's Birthday...Fish Burgers, Coleslaw, Avocado, Homemade Fries, german chocolate cake

M-Bean Burritos

T-Chicken, tofu, cornbread, salad or frozen veg

W-Church, leftovers or spaghetti

T-Chili and baked potatoes

I used to read a lot to the boys...

2010-11-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

then we changed some of our schooling methods. Then we added a son with some speech and reading difficulties. Read Alouds fell to the way side. I miss them though. I need to find the time to sneak them in again.

Baby's First Snow (that she got to play in anyway)

2010-11-24T14:08:00.001-08:00

LOMO
Originally uploaded by OakBlossoms

Well, she didn't have to wait long. The snow has hit Washington State in November. She loves the snow. She stood and yelled at the door when the boys went out without her. We bundled her up tight and covered her hands with some thick socks.

Right before this pregnancy...

2010-11-24T12:53:00.000-08:00

I felt like things were going smoothly again. I felt like I came up, we'll okay we, had found a good rhythm. Getting pregnant and therefore sick made me feel ike a mess. How was I going to handle another child? Should the children go to school next year? This book is helping me find my way again. Reminding me what is important. Reminding me that we are adding someone new...again...

We don't know this someone's personality. We can't be prepared.

Halloween and Mummy Dogs

2010-11-13T17:22:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share the mummy dogs the kids made for Halloween. We don't usually do anything regular for Halloween. Depending on where we live, we Trick or Treat. A few years ago we did a big festival with our church and that was crazy. Smack dab in the middle of our towns Halloween Trick or Treating event. This year one of the boys and Dad went out for last minute Trick or Treating. I'm sorry I have no pictures of their makeshift costumes. But, I told everyone that I'm too pregnant and tired to go out.

We did manage some fun dinner though. We made some vegetarian and some with meaty dogs.

Threw in some broccoli for good measure. All the kids like broccoli and it comes in very big bags at Costco.

Kitchen Organization

2010-11-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

I have a good size kitchen with a slightly strange layout. I haven't figured out how to use it yet. And, this is the second time I have lived in this house. You would think I would have it down. But, you must remember with me. Back then I was newly married and a new mom. I had only a husband and little baby to feed. Seriously, I didn't need any room. My cupboards were barren because well....I didn't need pots and pans and piles of dishes. It took us forever to fill up the dishwasher.

Now I have four. I am tired. I am homeschooling. We come and go. Everyone is always hungry.

A real live action break

Enters oldest son....why is there nothing to eat...I hate curry....I am complaining because complaining is fun.

So, I am looking for some inspiration.
Down to Earth talks about her pantry here.

So, I made a menu. Which I plan to repeat to boredom every week. I need to put something on auto-pilot. I, also, created a shopping list for said menu. So, I can just check off what we need/want and not spend forever shopping and guessing and wishing and wondering. Cooking is no fun right now. I will let you know when it is. Right now, I don't want to think about it. I don't want to hear how there is nothing to eat.

Breakfast

M-Pancakes

T-Cream of Wheat

W-Eggs

T-Oatmeal

F-Muffins or Granola Bars

S-Waffles or French Toast

S-Cold cereal or leftovers

Lunch

M-Chickpea or tuna salad sandwiches/melts

T-Grilled Cheese & baked beans or soup

W-Peanut Butter and Jelly on bread/tortillas

T-Mac and Cheese & frozen veg

F-Fruit, Crackers, Cheese, deviled Eggs

S-Quesidillas or leftovers

S-Leftovers/Fend for yourself OR English Muffin Pizza & Salad

Dinner

M-Bean Burritos

T-Chicken, tofu, coleslaw, cornbread, rice

W-Church, leftovers or spaghetti

T-Chili and baked potatoes

F-Pizza

S-Curry Beef in crockpot, tofu, rice, frozen veg

S-Leftovers/Fend for yourself or Fried Rice

A link to the actual Shopping List

What is important. What is doable.

2010-10-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

I am reading the above book. I will try to keep track of some notes here. There is this quote from page 18, "What seems the most important is usually not; what is most doable is the place to begin. If. you do enough that is doable, you will get to the important, and your motivation will be fueled byyour success."

I think I try to tell this to my children, but I definitely don't do it for myself. I make countless schedules and routines. Yet, I have yet to work on the things that keep our routines from working. I think it would be better if I worked on improving mealtime and bedtimes. Bedtimes used to include candles and lots of books. Now they are usually TV with Dad at a horribly late time while Mom passes out in the bedroom. Dad misses this time, but no one is doing anything about it.

An Autumn meal...

2010-10-07T09:05:00.000-07:00

I checked out some books from the library. One of them was....

I am making Sage, White bean, and Sausage soup from it. I am going to use Tofurkey Italian Sausages to make it vegetarian so everyone can eat it. Plus, greasy foods aren't sitting well with my stomach lately. Did I forget to mention it uses dry beans and my crockpot. I love the crockpot. I am planning on making some rice because we have a bunch of limes leftover from yesterdays dinner. a squeeze of lime is really good on rice. I am going to make pumpkin muffins, too. I am going to double up so we have enough for tomorrow's breakfast. I love muffins for breakfast.

Proof

2010-09-16T10:51:00.001-07:00

0717101859.jpg
Originally uploaded by OakBlossoms

Those inner voices...

2010-09-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

Always seem to come when my children are doing somethingthat drove my mom crazy. All of a sudden I hear her and realize it is just me. Apologize and reconnect. Call my mom and tell her I am sorry for driving her so crazy she had to mutter to herself.

I have been feeling better. We are expecting another member in the spring. I have never parented a toddler while being pregnant. I am exhausted. I feel bad, too. I don't feel like I can give my all to the baby. So, there is definitely some mamma guilt to top of that sundae.

July Covets

2010-07-14T14:18:00.000-07:00

I've been limiting my online time. I make little notes on post-its and I tag the computer with them. When I can't take it anymore, I turn on the computer (for years I've just left it on) and play for awhile. Usually it's during a nap. And, I try to make sure I'm caught up on laundry and the kitchen is clean.

So, here is what I'm coveting this week.

Things I would make if only I were crafty....

....A mug cozy.
......A pile of rainbow washcloths.

If I had a bunch of extra money and was wondering what I could possible spend it on...

...........little underwear for the waldorf doll.

Next time we are at the beach we are going to make little gardens and find some rocks for painting.

The start of some gluten-free vegetarian meatballs.

2010-07-11T14:51:00.001-07:00

The start of some gluten-free vegetarian meatballs.
Originally uploaded by OakBlossoms

I've been working back towards GF. There are definitely some health issues around this house. I don't know if they are all deemed mysterious. But, they can all be symptoms of Celiac disease. I know I can do it. I know I can do it.

I know I can do it and not end up eating meat again.

My kids love pickles. So, we always have the pickle jars from Costco. I'm hoping they are GF. They seem like it, but I would be bummed if they aren't. Really bummed. Also, I do know that cast iron is porous. Right now I'm doing my best. Getting rid of Grandma's cast iron pan is not on the list. I'll think about though. I'll consider it. But, first let us see if this GF thing lasts.

Here is the brown rice cooking.

Veggies cooking a bit in the cast iron pan.

All of the goodies after I Vitamixed them.

It was a bit runny still. So, I did add some brown rice flour to get it to hold together better. I need to remember how well the vitamix works. It created a lot of juice from the veggies. I probably should have drained my beans more.

Frying them up.

Eating in June

2010-06-15T17:14:00.000-07:00

This month I decided to start freezing foods. I really wanted to do it before our last baby was born. But, I never got down and did it. I wish I had.

This month my plan is to at least double all our meals. I made up a plan and I'm trying to add to my grocery list as I go along. I'm hoping I might at some point get enough energy to do it all at once. But, don't hold your breath. But, maybe one of my readers will get all excited and give it a go. I have been getting really frustrated at the end of the night. I do not like having a dirty kitchen. We just all get tired and no one wants to clean up. It feels good to have a clean kitchen in the morning. There are other dinner snafus that are driving us crazy. So, I took all of it into account. I realized I need to be able to throw something in the oven or have things my husband can heat up when he is hungry.

We are not casserole eaters. We hardly ever have meat and some of us are vegetarians. I never wanted to do this because I hate using plastic. But, my husband will spend 25 bucks at Papa Murphy's and get a cheese loaded, greasy pizza covered in plastic wrap. I can make a whole lot of cheese light and cheese less pizza and put them in plastic bags for a lot less. A good freezer bag can be rewashed and reused. I'm not planning on doing any meaty items.

So far I made frozen pizzas and a batch of white chili. It wasn't any harder than making my usual dinner or pizza or chili. Next time I'll just have to heat those up when we need them.

I figure on days I'm busy I'll have frozen food. On the days when I feel like baking or cooking I can stock the freezer with foods or baked goods. I asked my husband what he thought. He said he didn't care what it tasted like. He just wanted food he could cook. My husband was a baker in a rustic bakery. He used to cook when we were first married. But, somewhere along the line he got tired. I started to teach myself how to bake and cook. But, somewhere along the line I got burnt out on being an excellent cook. I hope the things I make don't taste too bad. I figure they will taste better than mac and cheese.

Communication, Parenting, being a Gentle Christian Mother

2010-05-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

I sought out gentle parenting out of necessity. I was raised in a non-gentle home. When my mom remarried, I saw how a man could be gentle with his daughters. He did well with me and I was a very rotten, very lost little 14 year old young lady.

I'm now the mother of four. And, I still find myself reverting back to learned behaviors. Things I don't want to do. Things I cannot do to my children. Often I haven't taken care of things like proper meals and sleep. And, yet I know there is more. I know, for me, it's a spiritual battle. The enemy does not want my family to be gentle and kind Christians. He wants us to fall apart. He wants me to be angry and fearful.

So, I spend some time during my days to reflect. Remember what my goals are in parenting. Do you have goals in your parenting? If you homeschool, do you have goals for your children? Not the academic ones but the spiritual ones or the leadership ones. The ones like I will my hug my children daily.

I'm currently reading this article. It's a Waldorf article titled "Compassionate Communication."

This book is a great book if you are a Christian family. One that feels like they aren't on track. One that struggles with their children's behavior. Do you feel like you are all at odds with each other? Do you keep asking for parenting help and everyone just gives you surface answers? Do you want to dig down deep?

Meals and Money or Money and Meals

2010-05-12T19:46:00.000-07:00

I'm not doing so bad when I enter our income into the Global Rich List. That's a fun little tidbit worth checking out if you are feeling a little down and out about your yearly income or your mediocre food bill.

Some of those cheap meals we have been eating (and in no particular order):

Spaghetti with two types of sauce & garlic toast. A family member gifted us with some pantry staples from their overflowing pantry. Spaghetti was one of those. My kids are eating a ton of bread lately. I made garlic toast out of all the leftover pieces of bread my children refuse to eat. They always leave a few pieces in the bag. I just spread with butter or Earth Balance and some garlic and Italian seasoning.
Chickpea salad spread melts. We were out of pickles and relish (egads what will we do), so we used jalapeno olives instead. It was delish. This was spread heavily on pieces of bread, topped with thin slices of fresh tomato, sprinkled with cheese for those who eat it, and sprinkled with Italian Seasoning (from one of those nifty McCormick Grinder thingies).
Teriyaki Tofu, Brown Rice, and salad with Goddess Dressing. Trader Joes has a private label dressing that is so delicious. I used to hate this stuff, but it's the only salad dressing I like now. I ate the leftovers at the gym the next day. Just piled it up and put more dressing on the top.
Lasagna is on the menu currently. A giant pan came from a family member. Unfortunately for me, it contains lots of meat and cheese. Both of which I vowed to give up after Mother's Day. (I feel better by the way!) I'll probably grab some salad to go with it tomorrow.
White Chili is on the menu for those not eating lasagna. I made two pounds of beans, so I'm hoping that lasts 3 days because of that lasagna. Made it in the crockpot, too. Can't beat cheap and crockpot and doesn't make me sick when I eat it.
I had planned on pizza after the chili was all eaten up.

Wedding Photos by 2015

2010-05-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

A friend mentioned she didn't have good wedding photos. We didn't either. We had a family member take them and they turned out horrible. She did manage to take good photos of other family members though. It's really irritated me for a long time. But, I'm going to add getting a new photo shoot to my list of things to do by 2015.

April Grocery Recap & May Meal Planning

2010-05-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

So, we did skate through April just fine. You can read about some of our meals from this previous post mid-month. I'm trying to not have too much variety. Mostly because it's easier to eat around leftovers. If we have some cilantro left, what can I use it for next. I really do think I did better by having less around the house. It's just difficult. I like having lots of food around for the boys sake. It was good for my waistline though. I got back on my weight loss track. I'm not hugely overweight, but watching all the diabetes happening in my family is making me realize I, personally, need to get my health (and body) back in better shape. Less sweets and enjoy some fruit. Having less food around caused me to not grab something like bread or a sweet thing because I knew it was needed for the next meal or for the kids to take for lunches when we leave the house.

Today we are eating up bits and pieces. Eggs tacos with some salsa verde. I love those little cans of sauce (I know it's sick, but if you look to the left you can see that amazon has it) you buy in the mexican section. You can usually get them for a little over a buck. Not bad if you consider what they can add to a few eggs and some corn tortillas. I bought a couple when they were on sale. They aren't bad at all. They are easy to grab and add to a simple meal. You can mix the green one with some avocado for a really great avocado salsa. There is a bean soup on the stove. And, I will probably makes some chickpea salad sandwiches to go with that. Tomorrow we are off to a family function and we only need to bring chips.

Monday I'm going to hit Costco for burritos makins. We will probably subsist on those for 4 or 5 days. Everyone really wants burritos...so I'm going to stretch that meal out as long as I can. I figure it's a good start to May.

Waving Hello to Daddy!

2010-04-30T12:24:00.001-07:00

Waving Hello to Daddy!
Originally uploaded by OakBlossoms

Our youngest has been growing like, well, wildflowers. Sweet, pretty, and fast. She is waving, climbing the stairs, eating, and growling. She does have three older brothers. Growling seems like a must.

We have been having a lot of fun. Spring is beautiful in Washington this year. It's just gorgeous out. We have had just enough rain to enjoy it. And, enough sunshine to bring out the much needed sunshine happiness.

Our butterflies have hatched and they have been so much fun to watch. I want to let them go. But, I don't want to let them go. If you want to see what else we have been up to, check out our learning adventures at OakBlossoms Academy.

This winter has been much better then last year. Even when times were tough or too cold, there was a new little person to watch.

New little people remind you that each day is new.
New for everyone,
not just babies.
We all learn something new.
We all can get up in the morning
and watch the sunrise.

Ani Phyo Makes Baja Fresh Taco Boats at Mom Tri's Villa Royale Workshop ...

2010-04-24T20:07:00.000-07:00

Talk about yummy raw food. We love anything mexican and I came across this today. It doesn't seem too complicated. I like raw foods, but I hate it when it seems complicated.

A capful of oil, Food in April, meal planning, stretching the pantry,

2010-04-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

So, I mentioned that we had another budget cut. I can't see our budget getting any smaller. Ouch...it really does hurt. I did go and get on WIC. That was a bit difficult for me. I don't want to be dependent on services. It has helped quite a bit. I'll venture to say it's going to be the thing that helps us get through. I have $100 a week for food plus WIC. I have to be out of the house most days for things like the YMCA classes, taking my Grandma to her classes, friends, or church activities. So, I'm not really menu planning. I'm just buying enough groceries to get us through a few days. Then, I try to stretch that food another day or two. I have a pretty meager pantry currently and almost nothing in the freezer. But, I just don't feel right stocking up on stuff. We need to eat what we have.

A few months ago I was watching TV. There was a woman doing her shopping in an open market. I want to say Africa, but I can't recall. I just remember she got oil in the capful. Just enough for that meal of cooking. And, all I could think of was how I had been complaining about being low on oil. And, yet I had so many capfuls of oil in my fridge.

Thank you God for your abundant blessings.

Food is on our table.

Food is in our bellies.

Breakfasts we have eaten:

Cold cereal with soymilk

eggs and toast

baked beans

smoothies (blueberries from Costco, flaxseed, soymilk, banana, and raw oatmeal)

Lunches and snacks we have eaten:

Peanut Butter and Jelly

Chickpea salad on bread

leftovers

ramen

hard boiled eggs

deviled eggs

fruit

peanut butter cookies

Bread pretzels with mustard

Dinners we have eaten

(I offer salad, fruit, and/or frozen veggies on the side. We have had some canned veggies this month. I don't usually do that, but it's one of those things I'm willing to do now.):

We ate out a friends house once.

Orange chicken, Peanut Butter Chicken, cornbread, rice, and spinach. (This was a clean out the freezer meal.)

Salmon Burgers with tater tots and canned green beans.

Veggie Burgers (got a big box at Costco).

Soup and bread

Grilled Cheese, salad, and tater tots.

Taco Soup with all the fixins.

Tacos with all the fixins (I fry corn tortillas. It's really tasty and much cheaper than those boxes of taco shells.) We top ours with refried beans, shredded cheese, cilantro, onion, radish, finely sliced lettuce, salsa, pico pica sauce. Rice with fresh lime juice on the side.

Homemade pizza. We usually make personal size pizzas. We top with a variety of stuff from whatever was on sale or I have around the house. This time we had red sauce, pepperoni, black olives, green onions, black refried beans, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, chopped tomato. I like to make pizza on Friday and use our leftovers from the last few days. You can use barbecued chicken, curried meats or veggies, the list goes on. It's amazing what's good on pizza.

A Million Miles in A Thousand Years

2010-04-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

I really enjoy Donald Miller books. I enjoy them because you can read just one chapter and savor it for a week. That is how I like a book. I like to read a bit at a time and let it sit on my mind and flow through my body. I like to apply it to my weekly routine. See how it filters through our life. See if it makes a difference. See if calms me.

In chapter 9, he talks about Jason and how he saved his family by recreating their story. This is my advice (for myself even) when thinks seem hard. There are days when the kids won't cooperate. There are days when I tell my oldest I'm going to send him to public school and see how he can handle it. It comes out as some awful threat. It comes out like I hate all public schools and that he will be shamed into a little robot or cast onto the playground. I'm venting. It isn't attractive. So, I re-do. I let go. I apologize. (I mean what happens if they do have to go to school one day?)

But, I don't know if after the apology I really look to make our life better. I tend to clean up the kitchen or serve them a good pie or something. Sometimes I try to make up some sort of amazing schedule that gets us all out of bed at 6am and I suddenly feel the urge to study Latin with them. But, I don't think I really take the time to seek out something exciting. I don't think I really take the time to figure out a mission for us to accomplish. A better way to serve God together.

Meal Planning

2010-04-03T16:11:00.000-07:00

We recently got another budget cut. God willing he will bless us and we will get through each month. I thought I would share some good links I'm using for meal planning. Since, I'm actually out of the house a few times a week for the YMCA or to drop my Grammy off at her Tai Chi classes, I'm going to start doing smaller shopping trips. My goal is to see how stretchy I can get.

I'm sure the next week will be full of deviled eggs.

Vegetable Pakora http://www.ManjulasKitchen.com or her youtube channel If you are looking for an excellent source for Indian recipes this is the best. I love Indian food. It's comforting and can be very cheap if you can get spices in bulk and use produce common in your area.

Chocolate Oatmeal Cake I admit it. I do like sweets. I find if I make a sweet thing once a week, I don't feel deprived. I usually make a sweet after a simple meal. It encourages the kids to eat a meal they may not be excited about.

The Duggar recipes are big. These are not foods I got to eat growing up. I remember the first time I had tater tot casserole. You can make tater tot casserole vegetarian and even vegan. I never had casseroles growing up and I've never made them for my kids. They aren't that fond of them. But, sometimes it's nice to have an all in one dish. My kids do like enchilada casserole and lasagna. I usually make both of those in the crockpot. They work well.

Taste of Home (which my Grammy insists on getting me. I hardly use it because it's always so meaty and cheesy.) had a section on layered salads this month. They showed a taco salad. We haven't had taco salad for a long time and I think that sounds yummy. Either that or this yummy looking taco salad and cilantro, cucumber, and avocado dressing.

Greenish Tofu Curry. My husband loves green curry. I normally buy the jar at Trader Joes. But, I would like to come up with my own recipe at home.

Busy, Busy, Busy...

2010-03-11T17:52:00.000-08:00

We joined the YMCA this January. It's taking up a bit of time lately. So, blogging is a little bit behind. Oh well, that happens. I already petered out on my photo challenge. I've done ok with my One Small Change Challenge though. This month I bought a case of Seventh Generation Diapers. We had been trying to do cloth only. But, rashes tend to develop at night. I'm too tired to get up and change her. Plus, my husband prefers to use them. But, if you purchase by the case from Amazon or Diapers.com they aren't that much more than purchasing (insert that name brand) at your big box store.

I just like to share things when I find them.

I found this Shepherd's Pie recipe through a an online friend. Talk about easy and kid friendly. I really have been working on doing casseroles. My kids don't really like them. But, I really appreciate them. Lasagna, tamale pie, enchilada casserole are all favorites of mine. They can all be done in the crockpot if you are going to be out and about.

Speaking of that friend. She is spectacular. She does a lot for her family. She is like a mini-mom. She is a fantastic role model for young ladies trying to pursue a Godly lifestyle. Fun, beautiful, hip, and caring. That is how to raise up our young ladies.

This is what I've been up to lately. I finally got my dreads. So, I can click that off of my 2015 wishes =). I shot this awhile back. The son was really shining on me, so my hair is really Auburn ++.

little fish

2010-02-15T18:01:00.001-08:00

little fish

Originally uploaded by OakBlossoms

Today we went for a walk on the beach. I found this little fish on a rock. Isn't it sweet. What a great moment to catch.

Gratitude Saturday

2010-02-13T10:26:00.000-08:00

I always enjoy Waldorf Mama's simple Gratitude Friday post.

:: I'm thankful for this little baby in my lap.
:: I'm thankful for family that's so close.
:: I'm thankful for a husband that enjoys me for who I am right now.
:: I'm thankful for a certain teenage young lady who was willing to dread my hair.

Valentines

2010-02-11T11:40:00.000-08:00

I usually blow off Valentines Day. I'm not much of a romantic. I don't like red roses or diamonds. In fact, I would be insulted if I got a diamond much less had a husband who couldn't think up anything better to do than go out and buy some slave labor mass produced guilt by commercial....I'm ranting. (My mother got married on Valentines Day. Loves red rubies, hearts, roses, giant cards...go figure.)

But, I'm trying to stop being so cynical.

Syrendell has some crafts for Valentines Day and Chinese New Year.

A sweet little heart felting project from 5 Orange Potatoes.

A post on loving your partner from Parenting Passageways.

Gnome's Home Radio show talks about Cultivating Love.

Valentines stained glass from a Little Nature Nest.

5 Years

2010-02-06T06:30:00.000-08:00

I was editing a post this morning. I decided to look back on my posts. I realize I have been blogging for over 5 years now. I started with Xanga, move to blogger, moved to wordpress, and then moved back over here.

That is such a long time. My kids are 5 years older. I only had three back then and one was just a baby. Where did all that time go. What were my goals and dreams back then? We have moved three times since then. The adults have gone back to school. We have added another child to our family.

I've changed a lot during that time. I've relaxed. I've grown. I've tried new foods. So, have the kids.

We took a short break in there to try public school again. The oldest went to half of Grade 4. The second went to a fabulous K program and half of a not-so fabulous Grade 1 program. The third child has not attended any schooling, although he has been in speech therapy for two years. And, then there is the youngest. Who I pray will never attend school.

In 5 years, it will be 2015. Our oldest will be graduating and be just turning 18, the next will have just turned 15, then 11, and a Kindergartner. Now that my friends will be a crazy year. I bet I cry a lot that year. I bet I will have changed a lot by then.

But, goals, thoughts, guesses on my future. It seems so very wrong to do. How can I do that to my family? How about hopes....

I hope...
   we are still homeschooling
   we live on Vashon or in Ojai
   my husband has a profession he loves
   I've finally found a hobby I love or written a book
        we are happy and strong
   our oldest is going out into the world with God in his heart
   I've gotten my hands in some good organic earth
   I can decorate a cake without it falling apart
   I've experienced dreads
   I've sailed on a boat with my husband
I'm no longer afraid of the water

Brooms, Waldorf

2010-02-05T06:45:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the things I've been gazing at lately...

I really hope you do not mind me downloading this picture and sending everyone who actually reads this blog running over right now at this very moment to find something that will actually bring them some joy when they do that dirty little deed of sweeping. Not only that, but it comes in a child size, too.

Waldorf education. I've been drawn to this for years. I've put it off for different reasons. I think it's time though. I'm taking a few things with us that we have enjoyed in this homeschooling journey. I'm packing them in a sweet basket and walking down a trail. It's still homeschooling. It's just going to be a bit more. I don't know, meaningful. I heard that voice that says jump. Then I read a post I made when my oldest was much younger. I realized I need to jump. I couldn't afford not to. Grade 1 may not look like much. She includes everything you need. Stories, supplies list, examples of pictures. I printed out the e-book. I'm glad I did. I just print out a bit at a time to read. And, now I can print out the months outline and stories. I wasn't sure if it's what I needed. But, it's wonderful, amazing and everything you need to jump. Everything you need to start. The rest will come. You don't need to be perfect. YOU NEED TO DO.

Water, Perfect Families, TV

2010-02-02T23:46:00.000-08:00

I'm holding a little one in my lap, who just doesn't want to sleep. I could clean, but I'll save that for the morning. It's better to clean when all the family can pitch in. Today our goal was to get to the YMCA. We got a membership there last month. It was quite fun. This was the second time our littlest went to childcare there and she loved it. She was not stressed at all. The play with the babies and hold them. They are the sweetest people. It gave me a much needed break with the boys. I actually went swimming with them. I hate the water and they all know it. The smiled and laughed. I even raised them all to the other side of the pool and back. It was fun. Special fun.

You might notice some changes. But, maybe not. I'm always full of changes. We like to try on new things, keep what we like and toss the rest. I hope and pray our children do well in life. I hope we aren't hindering them. I do worry about that at times. But, I see a lot of people trying to make this perfect family. They work so hard to keep their homes perfect or spend all their money to make them perfect. And, yet they don't have what we have. We have nothing really. We have no belongings worth much of anything. Strange collections of stuff here and there. Vehicles that no one else would want. A dog with allergies and a strange little cat. But, those things don't matter. I have them and they have me. And, we are so important to each other. I couldn't trade this family. Not for anything perfect.

In time, I tell my husband.

My mom told him, too. Just give her time and a good cry.

I get through, I move on. I'm always seeking. Moving towards God. Moving towards simplicity. Moving towards connection.

The cable is on here. We don't pay for it. It's just on. I spend last year sick and well sometimes depressed. Not because I was pregnant, but because I wanted to be in the city. I didn't want to fail at that life. I wanted that life. But, it didn't fit everyone in our family. And, you know what...that's not ok. It has to fit us all somehow, that is why it's called family. I spent a lot of time watching TV. And, maybe that was good. Because today I flipped it on. I was nursing and on the couch. I flipped it one. And, I felt a sick yucky deep down in my stomach yuckiness. I blinked. I watched. I blinked. I enjoyed it before. I enjoyed that show about wearing clothes to make you look your best. And, yes some of them looked better. I turned it off. Enough. My stomach hurt. I'm glad it's over and off.

Groundhog Day

2010-02-02T06:45:00.000-08:00

What are you doing for Groundhog Day?

Annette at Season's of Joy shared this sweet little verse for the day.

The Toymaker has these wonderful little toys.

At Little Acorn Learning, Eileen shares about St. Brigid Day along with a little bit on Groundhog Day.

February Photo Project

2010-02-01T09:48:00.000-08:00

It's February. What words best describe February to you?

Red

Pink

white

love

shelter

dainty

Here is the link to the first photo project post. How did you do? I would have liked to take more photos. So, this month that is it. More photos. I'm still very tired from having a little one around. I think this is a good month to get over it.

One of my New Year things to do (don't make me say the R word)....a photo project for each month. I sat down with my husband to come up with words to describe each month. I'll try to keep my pictures in correlation with those words for my project. Check in to see what the new months project is. You can find the Flickr set here. If you want to join in with me,there is a flickr pool as well. Otherwise, just share the pics on your blog. If you join from here, will you drop me a line so I can see your blog. I would love to keep up with what others are doing. Feel free to make a button on your sidebar from the pic to let others know what we are doing!

Gratitude Friday

2010-01-29T11:10:00.000-08:00

Waldorf Mama is sharing today and I thought so should I.

:: I'm so thankful for the young man in my life. The young man who is turning 13 today.

:: I'm thankful for his Grammy who will cook him up pounds of shrimp.

:: I'm thankful I married my sweetheart so young.

:: I'm thankful for heat you can just switch on. (We have been reading The Little House on the Praire. We were piled under blankets late last night. I was still a little cold. But, Ma said it was ok if they couldn't afford glass for their windows.)

Better-Off and A Little Garden Flower....

2010-01-28T21:04:00.000-08:00

I have to be careful. I will take on a stack of books and not finish one single book. I don't often purchase books though. I think it's because, in the past I would devour them in two days and feel like I wasted money. But, with more children and more to do, books often linger on the bedside table, in a kitchen nook, wander past the toilet, in a full laundry basket...you get the picture. I renew them three times and pay my 30 cents in late fees. I renew it three times a year. Honestly....buy a book every once in awhile. Savour it, enjoy it.

I'm really enjoying this book. I'm so happy to have purchased it, too. I decided it's required reading for High School. I actually thought it might be dry. But, Amanda said she devoured it. I appreciate his style. I find myself literally laughing. I don't mind reading it to my children (and yes sex is mentioned once).

My other purchase was A Little Garden Flower Grade 1. I bought the E-book because I figured I could print just what I want and not get overwhelmed. I've been wanting to go towards Waldorf for many years. I'm a bit sad that I never just did it. I had excuses for years. But, maybe I wasn't ready. Maybe I needed to work on myself first. I needed to let go of stuff and attachments to things. I needed to purge.

Beach

2010-01-28T19:06:00.001-08:00

0127101629.jpg
Originally uploaded by OakBlossoms
(Be nice it's the camera on my phone.)

Sometimes I forget where I live. We move around a lot. But, we came back here in 2008. I haven't always appreciated the beauty of the places I've lived in. I live right down the street from this impressive piece of History.

January Terra Organics Order 1

2010-01-13T16:43:00.001-08:00

This is my first order for the New Year & One Small Change. I'm hoping it will get more fresh produce in our tummies and keep me from the grocery store. I'm hoping I can get in on the CSA this next month.

It weighed in at just about 22 pounds. We never buy fresh Mango, so that is a plus. We have never had a Crenshaw Melon, so that should be a fun new thing to try. We are studying plants for homeschool and the boys like to plant seeds from our fruits. So, we will see if we can get anything to grow.

Bulk Tea

2010-01-06T11:39:00.001-08:00

Bulk Tea
Originally uploaded by OakBlossoms

When we moved here, I couldn't find bulk tea anymore. In Seattle, I just walked up to the store and bought what I needed for the week. I liked getting different ones each week. But, my husband purchased me a tea set this Christmas. It has a tea container for bulk tea. See the cute little wooden scoop!

I'm trying to trim our food budget down this year, as well as build up a pantry for lean times. I'm not sure how long one pound of tea will last me. The container holds about half a pound.

Lisa Leonard Giveaway

2010-01-04T10:19:00.000-08:00

Enter to win a $50 gift certificate from Lisa Leonard.

I love the jumble necklace. I think I would like it in bracelet form though.

The sweetheart necklace is darling. I made a cup like that for my husband. I’m wondering if he would wear something like that.

4 January, 2010 Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-04T08:18:00.000-08:00

Outside my window...it's overcast, water is sprinkling on the pond

I am thinking...about my second child's birthday tomorrow

I am thankful for...a husband that enjoys me being at home and sleeping with our babies

From the learning rooms...it's the first day of the second half of the school year

From the kitchen...Black Mango tea in my new mug from Christmas

I am wearing...long johns and a Life is Good sweatshirt

I am creating...Window Stars and my Photo Project

I am going...absolutely no where today...ok maybe the library

I am reading...The Compassionate Child

I am hoping...for my bulk tea to arrive, so I can use the new tea pot I got for Christmas

I am hearing...it's really quiet, my husband is just leaving for school, only me and the little one is up

Around the house...August the Cat is comfy under the Christmas tree...I can't take it away from her yet

One of my favorite things...that I don't need my husband's permission to do things...he trusts me so completely

A few plans for the rest of the week: Get back into our school groove, Get back into our chore & cleaning groove, make Window Stars, Make pinecone birdfeeders

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

January 2010 Photo Project

2010-01-03T15:22:00.001-08:00

Sleep
Originally uploaded by OakBlossoms

One of my New Year things to do (don't make me say the R word)....a photo project for each month. I sat down with my husband to come up with words to describe each month. I'll try to keep my pictures in correlation with those words for my project. Check in to see what the new months project is. You can find the Flickr set here. If you want to join in with me, there is a flickr pool as well. Otherwise, just share the pics on your blog. If you join from here, will you drop me a line so I can see your blog. I would love to keep up with what others are doing. Feel free to make a button on your sidebar from the pic to let others know what we are doing!

January means to me....
White
Gray
Sleep
Shelter
Birds

If you had problem with comments...

2010-01-01T11:42:00.000-08:00

I fixed it. I'm sorry you couldn't make comments before. I use Link within and I think it might have messed up the comments portion of my blog. I tested it and you should get a pop-up comment window now.

2010-01-01T10:25:00.000-08:00

Hip Mountain Mama has a challenge that most people could complete. Make one change till Earth Day. That is 22 April 2010. Go ahead and give it a try.

My change for January was already planned. But, I'm going to share it again. I'm ordering from Terra Organics. Once the CSA season starts in June I will be ordering a share from Tahoma Farms via Terra Organics instead. I'm excited and look forward to our first delivery next Friday.

Meal Planning in 2010

2009-12-31T16:53:00.000-08:00

Monday-Soup and Sandwiches

Tuesday-Burritos or Mexican Food

Wednesday-Leftovers or Church Meal

Thursday-Tofu/Chicken, rice, frozen veg or salad

Friday-Pizza

Saturday-Finger Foods and leftovers

Sunday-Crockpot or Breakfast

Along with some changes in our budget, I am making a plan for meals. I don't want to have to be a slave to it. But, I've found it helps to make outlines for myself. I'm going to keep myself out of stores. I've already set us up for our first Terra Organics order. I'm working on finding a local drop point for Azure Standard. Then I can shop at Costco once a month and Trader Joes every other month. That should keep our budget low while still building up a stockpile. I don't want to go through another hard time without a pantry. That was really hard this last time. I can go without a lot of things. But, not being able to feed my family well is so difficult.

Espresso

2009-12-28T12:24:00.001-08:00

Originally uploaded by inostriantenati

I found this pic on Flickr this morning. Isn't it lovely? It just makes me think of a cool morning. Anyone can make coffee in a pot. But, this picture makes me think oh my gosh...a few minutes alone...the kids aren't up...the dog hasn't ruined anything while I was sleeping...the cat actually lets me pet her.

Christmas 2009 Tea Set

2009-12-27T14:29:00.001-08:00

Christmas 2009 Tea Set

Since, I no longer live near loose leaf bulk tea...well a place that sells it...I ordered some today from Republic of Tea. It's the kind I used to drink in Seattle. I got just a small bag every week or so and kept in one of those magnetic tins on the fridge.

My husband got me a tea container for Christmas, so I want to fill it up. I'm curious to see how long the tea lasts for me.

Smile

2009-12-26T14:40:00.001-08:00

DSC07857
Originally uploaded by Mr&MrsLewis

Here is the little flower that has been keeping me away from my computer.

Gearing up for a new Year...

2009-12-25T22:05:00.000-08:00

Christmas is over. I think we will keep up the tree. I had to download all my photos onto Flickr. It was full and we couldn't wake up the kids till the camera was empty. I gifted myself a new subscription to Flickr. I love Flickr. I've been trying to use shutterfly instead. I do like their family pages, as well. Plus, Shutterfly is free! Can't beat free. Since, we our computer crash, I just hate risking the loss of photos. Plus, I really like to share with family members who may not need a pile of photos to clutter up their homes.

I got Wii Fit Plus from my Mom for Christmas. The kids have been playing with it. It looks like it's going to get a lot of use. I thought it would be fun for me this Winter.

I just signed up for Terra Organics. I'm super excited. I've wanted to try this before, but never had the opportunity. I wanted to add that they are accepting EBT cards now. I've always felt like the poor really need help accessing healthy foods. I've read online about people who say the poor buy junk food with their food stamps. But, I've always strived to buy healthy, organic foods when possible. Yes, there are times when my pregnant little self bought some cookies and ice cream. But, for the most part we have strived to eat healthy on our food stamps, when we have had them. If other people are going to help pay for my food I think I owe it to everyone to make good healthy choices.

I hope to blog more often, too. I'm trying to get more of a routine going for us again. I think we get more down that way. Plus, we are hoping to get out and do more things. I don't want to spend all our time doing "school". I would love to see us have more time for friends and outdoor time.

Our youngest is getting her very first teeth. Both of the bottom front teeth are coming in at the same time. We got some all natural teething help this time around. I'll have to make a post on that.

Goodnight Christmas

Goodnight Cookies

Goodnight Happy Little Children

Thank You Lord for This Day

Thank You for Your Grace and Mercy

Thank You for My Little Children

I Give You my New Year

I Ask for Your Guidance

I Hope for Love

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-12-10T12:32:00.000-08:00

The Simple Woman's Daybook

~*~*~*~*~

Outside my window...

the lake is frozen, the air is crisp, but by Golly it is still SUNNY in Washington.

I am thinking...

about planning the rest of our learning year.

I am thankful for...

boys who love being big brothers.

From the learning rooms...

we are listening to Hallelujah Handel,

reading about winter,

talking about seasons,

reading lots of books,

trying to figure out a few crafts to do...I think we are going to work on this recycled star wreath today.

From the kitchen...

Banana Bread cake with blueberries.

I am wearing...

uggs that I have had for at least 15 years, pants, a long sleeve brown shirt with a teal short sleeve one over the top. I don't know why, but layering shirts makes me feel young. Anyone else?

I am creating...

absolutely nothing. I still want to make a mobile (like this) for the baby. But, she puts everything in her mouth. I'm not sure how good that would be now...

I am going...

perhaps for a walk. Did I mention how cold it is? But, our baby really loves walk and my post-preggo body is craving one.

I am reading...

Calm and Compassionate Children.

I am hoping...

for a calm and simple Christmas.

I am hearing...

boys playing with lincoln logs very loudly over the sound of Handel.

Around the house...

my Papa is working on our shower which decided to leak at some point this summer.

One of my favorite things...

knowing it's only a few steps away to visit with my own Grandma Cookie.

A few plans for the rest of the week:

read a stack of library books (mostly on Winter), make that recycled Christmas Wreath, walk everyday, visit the thrift store.

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing...

(How deep the ice on the pond was yesterday.)

2009-12-10T12:02:00.001-08:00

I'm not sure what happened with Good Reads. I thought at some point I could just post a review straight from their site. Goodness, I don't have time for all of this.

I've picked this up before. I thought it was time I really read it. It's beside by bed. It's getting a bit of time each night from me. I think my children have a pretty calm and compassionate life. I think I'm the one who needs help to remember to give that life to them. There are definitely some things I disagree with in this book (as a Christian). So, if you are really conservative you might choose to put this book down. Other than that I love the suggestions. I love the stories and personal input.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-09-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

I thought I would try out an entry, since I've run into it a few times.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

~*~*~*~*~

Outside my window...

Washington is still warm and sunny.

I am thinking...

about making sure I eat enough and drink enough today.

I am thankful for...

the time I get to spend with my new baby.

From the learning rooms...

we are learning about trees, discovery, the Americas, Henry Hudson, and the Northwest Passage. The boys are building Galleons this week out of milk cartons and various other fun supplies.

From the kitchen...

Escher baked an orange cake with cream cheese frosting.

I am wearing...

maternity shorts, a grey tanktop, and a really ugly green sweatshirt with a zipper. (I can almost fit into my old clothes and I refuse to buy size 10's.)

I am creating...

absolutely nothing. I want to make a mobile (like this) for the baby.

I am going...

to church tonight.

I am reading...

the creative family.

I am hoping...

for a nap

I am hearing...

boys, boys, boys, and our little baby girl has the hiccups again.

Around the house...

there is a mess from all the paper they are cutting up to make boats.

One of my favorite things...

yogi chai tea with vanilla soy milk creamer.

A few plans for the rest of the week:

work on boats some more, hope our science supplies come in, go for a nature walk and collect leaves, bark, whatever for our notebooks.

Here is a picture for thought I am sharing...

Little and pink baby girl clothes drying on the rack. A big deal to a mom with three sons in a row.

Muffin Tin Monday

2009-09-15T10:31:00.000-07:00

I haven't used a muffin tin in ages (for snacks or muffins). But, then I found the Muffin Tin Monday and I new I had to give it a try. So, E got out the muffin tin and everything he thought would be tasty. He ate on it twice and shared some with me. It worked so well he has asked for it again.

row 1: Trader Joes Jalepeno crunchies, pimento stuffed green olives, carrot stickes, blue corn chips
row 2: crackers, cheddar cheese, little organic tomatoes, guacomole.
row 3: Life cereal, trail mix, peanut butter, apple slices.

2009-05-29T10:55:00.000-07:00

I don't think this would work well in Washington State. But, what a ingenious thought especially for sunny low-economic areas. I wish I could talk someone into giving it a go.

Green Rabbits

2009-03-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

Once in awhile I check to see what new books are in/on order for our library system. I noticed Peter Rabbit "The Green edition". I had to go searching because I had some inner worry that someone had changed the book. Come to find out it's the entire product line.

Interesting tidbit. And, yes I did know how interested she was in the environment and the Lake District.

It is a girl!!!

2009-03-17T15:30:00.000-07:00

I made the doctor tell me three times. The third time he got a really good shot of her parts and gave me a nice scientific in detail description of what everything was and will be.

Ultrasound is coming..

2009-03-09T18:46:00.000-07:00

So, tomorrow is the ultrasound. All my boys are coming, so I hope all is well in there. I just started worrying about what if there was bad news and my boys had to be there for it. Ugh.

Also, got my directions for the next appointment and my Gestational Diabetes test. My last pregnancy I had it and I had to fast for the 1 hour. I'm curious how it will go this time. I haven't been feeling so hot unless I keep my protein up. This means I've been eating cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, fish, and chicken. I've had red meat twice, but boy is it difficult. I'm terrified of mad cow disease. I'm normally a vegetarian, so it's a bit much some times. I definitely feel the dairy stuffiness that I grew up with. But, feeling better is worth it, even if I'm stuffy. I'm jealous of all those Vegan and Vegetarian moms.

I'm just a gypsy married to a displaced surfer boy

2009-03-02T11:08:00.000-08:00

Being that it's still winter in Washington I'm craving a move to California. My poor Californian husband is molding something terrible. We are so sorry we left. For some reason it makes me feel better thinking about living in little spaces and enjoying some sun again. Come this summer I know we will feel better.

Green Kitchen's cute little cabin
The cute little kitchen in Delights former apartment.
A rustic kitchen.

A salvaged kitchen.

I look at other people's blogs and they are making so much of their lives. They are sharing all the sweet little things. You probably think I dress in black and cry my day away. I don't. I love my family. I'm happy with my life. I don't think it's a the grass is greener syndrome. I just enjoy the change & challenge.

2009-02-24T14:42:00.000-08:00

Sharing the Harvest: A Guide to Community Supported Agriculture by Elizabeth Henderson

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
I'm really enjoying this book so far. I just picked it up because I've been interested in CSA's the last few years. This book talks about the use of an account for CSA to allow those on foodstamps (which is now on a debit like card) to access CSA's. So, I guess I'll start searching for one that might possible accept my card. I would love to see some of my food money go somewhere better. The town we live in now is just not as supportive of an organic lifestyle.

View all my reviews.

An article to about being a CSA and how to accept food stamps/ebt cards.

As part of my search I found that a local group is trying to come up with some wise shopping alternatives to what is available at the moment. The Tacoma Food Coop is working on forming, but they have been working since 2006. Oh I hope there is a turn in the road soon for this. This area is definitely a low income area of Washington. Yet our housing prices are ridiculously high. I think growing and supporting our local farms is a movement for the people not just some luxury.

Planting Grass inside

2009-02-23T12:28:00.000-08:00

I'm always looking for ways to bring the outdoors in. My husband and I are summer people. We just cannot wait for summer and right now we are just pushing through Winter.

I love the idea of planting grass in pots inside. I've seen wheat grass for cats and juicers, but I think I might just have to plant some for beauty. Imagine that. I mean how hard can it be to grow a pot of grass.

Here are some more links:

Growing Grass Indoors
Apartment Therapy Indoor Grass and Troubleshooting
Grow a grass houseplant
Greensun sustainable Easter Basket

2009-02-21T16:23:00.000-08:00

I just changed this photo a bit. I then realized I haven't really been taking photos at all since I've been sick. Ugh. I'm going to start carrying my camera around again. Honestly we just don't get out much here because we have to drive. I don't mind driving. It's that we use to go for walks to get out and there was so much to see. Not really much to see around here but a neighborhood and if you leave the neighborhood you better keep an eye on where you are walking so you don't get run over (no side walk).

Not quite 20 weeks (had to come back and update this one!)

2009-02-20T18:20:00.000-08:00

I'm wearing a Bella Band with my pants in this one, so it looks really round.

Here you can see where the top of my uterus is at. Right down that middle line.

2009-02-19T09:58:00.000-08:00

Captivating: Unveiling the Mystery of a Woman's Soul by John Eldredge

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
I must note that I tried to read this book once before. I felt the same way many of the reviewers have. It's fluff. And, I have to admit I still don't like the writing style much. There are a lot of quotes and poor placement of the quotes. But, I might be too picky on that. The writing style is the reason I gave it a 4 and not a 5.

But, honestly I think I just needed to wait for a better time in my life. I'm a lot closer to God at this point. I have had some huge heart changes in my life. I never see myself as I long haired dress wearing girl. So, if you think I've gone to that side you would be mistaken. I'm still a short haired, jean, and converse wearing kind of girl. I'm still mistaken as a sister and not a mother of my children. I still have that kiss of youth.

I don't know how much this book is helping me personally. But, it really has helped me to look at the women around me and see where their pain is. I don't always know how to relate to women are at different places in their lives, who have made different choices. This has helped me see them in a different life, so that I can be a better friend.

I grew up with mostly guy friends and have always had difficulties with having girlfriends. But, this is really opening my eyes and my hearts to the relationships I do have know and how I can help improve them...because I am at a point in my life where I desire deeper relationships with women. I'm married and relationships with men just don't fulfill me anymore. I have my husband and I just don't need to be that close to other men.

View all my reviews.

2009-02-16T15:11:00.000-08:00

What will I do...the library catalog is not working today?

I want to see if they have books with the illustrator Alison Jay, Plain and Simple (it's about the Amish), and the creative family.

2009-02-12T09:31:00.000-08:00

Farm Sanctuary: Changing Hearts and Minds About Animals and Food by Gene Baur

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was an interesting History about Farm Sanctuary. It's always fascinating to read about how something develops out of nothing but a dream or even a passing thought.

View all my reviews.

Waste, Websites, Soymilk boxes

2009-01-20T11:49:00.000-08:00

I've had enough energy to sit at the computer lately. I miss my little iBook and staying in bed when I don't feel well. (I know how many times does she have to tell us this?), so I thought I would share some new places I've found instead of just writing run on sentences and adding them to my reader....

My Zero Waste
is a well put together site. They say it's just a blog, but wow blow my socks right off. I enjoy putting out little waste from our house. We haven't been as good since I'm doing none of the shopping. But, my mom did point out that we hardly ever use that second trash can that she pays for each month. I told her we put out very little garbage. We live with my parents and grandmother, but it's my parents house and it's actually divided into a duplex. We do have an inside entrance so the boys can bug my parents just enough to not forget they have grandchildren living downstairs.

Simple, Green, Frugal Co-op
is a next mish mash of writers who write on a variety of topics. It's nice to read through because it melds well, yet it's a change of pace to hear from different writers.

We don't drink dairy milk. We usually buy the big box of aseptic boxed soymilk at Costco. They don't recycle those here. They did in our last city. But, not here. It's probably the thing that fills up our trash can now. So, I'm thinking of just purchasing a soymilk maker, probably the Soyajoy when we have more money in the summer. I've read you can make other milks, too. I would love to make Almond milk and I'm curious if I could make hemp. I haven't read anything reliable on that yet. I love the hemp milk. But, the cheapest I've found it is $31 US dollars per case from Azure. I can't justify that.

Cleaning up my reading list...

2009-01-18T14:36:00.000-08:00

I just went to clean up my reading list. I can't believe how little we have been reading. I just couldn't read at all while I was sick. I'm still struggling to retain information. I think I'm just that tired. I did start Farm Sanctuary and it's been really interesting and a good read so far. I was worried I couldn't stomach it, but maybe I needed something more technical to chew on. I don't know, but it seems to be working. I think Monday I'll get back to reading aloud to the boys. I think we could all really use that, but that's a different blog now isn't this. This is my blog.

While at goodreads (where I keep my reading list) I realized how much those lists are like my life. I have a bunch of lists on there and they aren't really doing much. I expected way too much reading for all of this for the year. With three boys it's just makes no sense to separate them for reading. There is a good middle ground for all of them. I guess I'll just leave those lists there until I wake up and realize I don't want them hanging over me.

I felt like I had done really well to simplify and get into a certain groove. And, then my life took another sudden turn and here I am. Moved, pregnant, sick, a new home, a new church, a not so new town. I felt so settled in Seattle and honestly my parents town, where I live now, is a really wonderful town. Full of wonderful people. But, they just aren't as hippy, dippy, crunchy as we are.

But, this is Washington State and I know they must be out there. There must be someone who still wears Birkenstocks and socks!!!

Big Businesses, Christmas Memories

2009-01-09T11:11:00.000-08:00

Looking at this map of the Growth of Walmart brought on some Christmas memories for me. I think because my dh family is really into Black Friday and they all go bonkers and buy a ton of stuff. My dh and I don't see the point. I don't want a present just so I can open something. We did get some really thoughtful presents this year. A nice framed picture of our boys and a framed silhouette of each boy.

But, I realized this Christmas that since becoming a family our favorite Christmases have been the ones where we lived out of state. My favorite was Southern California when I wore shorts and a tank top and we went looking for a place open for Breakfast. Our tree was maybe a foot high and that was all we could fit in our 400 sq ft cabin. But, it was lovely and sweet and meaningful.

We have had very little money these last few months, so we did not get our children presents. But, many other people did. We still ended up opening presents 3 times. My parents did tone it down this year and yet my children were still happy...surprise. The most used gifts so far have been the board games. I went shopping with my mom and we decided to get board games so we could go upstairs and have game and pizza nights. The boys love them!

I like spending time with family (we live with my parents and Grandmother) and my husband's family. It's so nice to have this time with them again, especially my Grandma whom I spent a lot of time with as a young child. But, sometimes I realize how truly different my husband and I can be from our own families. How we have melded together and formed our own little definition of family. I hope I can respect that as my own children grow and join their wives.

Having snow in Washington State was lovely for the boys. My parents have a huge hill for sledding and we got snowed in a few days.

I hope I don't sound cynical about Christmas or Holidays in general. I do love Holidays. I just don't want to be another family celebrating presents and giving. I want to celebrate Christmas and be thankful for the birth of Christ.

Bump, Bump, Bump

2009-01-09T11:08:00.000-08:00

Literally, I have a big bump growing on my belly.

We are expecting our 4th child in June!!! I made an announcement on my other blog already, but then I got really sick and haven't been doing anything. Well, I've been vomiting, loosing weight, and sleeping...but that is about it.

I feel so much better this week though. So, I think I'm ready to start enjoying the growth of my baby.

Feeling a bit better & Christmas Break

2008-12-20T14:07:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm feeling a bit better during the day. Nights are still just awful.

We have snow and it doesn't feel like Washington State, not one bit. So, very odd. But, the boys have had so much fun sledding down the big hill here.

I have a bit of due date change on my ticker. And, there is nothing better than knocking a month off!

I told my oldest he is on official Christmas Break till Dad goes back to school Jan. 5. Even then I honestly know things are going to be a bit lax around here for awhile. I don't see me getting a great big amount of energy anytime soon.

And where have you been..

2008-12-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

I've been vomiting.

See ticker in right hand corner.

We are all very excited. My wonderful husband is in charge of everything. I'm in charge of sleeping and vomiting and the occasional bath. If my laptop hadn't died I would probably be on here quite a bit. But, alas a computer by the kitchen isn't cutting it for my body right now.

I did get sea bands and that's helping. But, I'm hoping my midwife will give me some medication. I've never been so sick before.

What is a good day?

2008-10-15T20:06:00.000-07:00

My husband and I are trying to get on track. We flounder around. We know we need a better routine for our boys. They are so much happier when they know what is expected and I am so much happier when I get a chance for a break during the day.

We took away video games during the week. So, very helpful. They were getting into the habit of only doing work so they could play video games. They get more and more manipulative. I just can't stand that. I want to enjoy our time together and not just rush through it so we can retreat to separate corners of the house.

When should we do chores?

School doesn't really take much time once they get started. I really want to get some more of our chores done in the morning and I'm thinking perhaps I should get them done before I start schooling.

My boys do not do school when left alone. I think they should be able to handle it at this point. It's frustrating and I run out of patience and time every night. I end up fixing too many lunches and getting sidetracked with vacuuming or dog brushing or window washing or toilet scrubbing. I go to help someone wash their hands and realize their toilet is filthy and their laundry basket is full.

Boundaries and Expectations

I think if we can keep being firm with our boundaries and expectations of the boys our life will run a little smoother. I hope then I'll be able to leave them alone and they will actually complete what I give them to do.

Dresses

2008-10-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

Here are ten reasons skirts are better than pants. It caught my eye because I've been thinking about wearing skirts again. I went to unpack some winter clothes and I have only one skirt left. I actually like wearing skirts in the winter because you can layer so much under them. I am always cold. Under a pair of pants I might be able to get a tight pair of long handled-underwear or long johns or thermals...whatever you call them. Yes my family always called them long handled...
Under a dress I can fit a pair of wool socks and cropped yoga pants. If I'm really cold I can add that layer of long handled underwear or tights. I'm short and this is a good way to stay warm without looking like a beach ball.

New European Car seat for the larger family...

2008-09-06T14:22:00.000-07:00

The Europeans have done it again. Did they try to make a larger vehicle? No...they made a carseat that fits in a smaller vehicle and it fits up to 4 children! It's not all that pretty, but so very practical. It probably wouldn't be legal in the United States. At the moment we have a Volvo and normally we have some sort of VW bus.

This carseat would allow me to safely transport our children in the Volvo or the Volkswagen and I could even have another. My problem with the VW bus is that it's hard to put carseats in safely. Plus, one child has to sit rear facing in the jumpseat (or whatever it's called).

Grieving, Mourning...and moving on...

2008-09-05T10:52:00.000-07:00

A sad thing happened shortly after my birthday.

Seattle and I have broken up. Sure I'll see her as I arrive by Ferry. Sure I'll get to ride public transit to visit the Zoo.

But, alas I've moved. Whilst cleaning my little City home, I cried till I got a migraine. I will admit to drinking too many beers to get through my cleaning date. I'm sad, really, really sad.

I've moved to my hometown (well my parents live here...so I guess it's my hometown). I don't feel at home. I feel uprooted. I feel naked. Heck I feel like someone chopped my roots off with a cleaver.

It's quiet here. There are more cats, chickens, sheep, a small horse, a pond, ducks, a rabbit and five acres for three little boys and their Border Collie to roam. Apples have been picked and pies and cider made. They all seem happy thus far.

Still riding my bike...

2008-07-25T10:52:00.000-07:00

I'm still riding my bike. But, last night I wanted to go to the store & so did my 5 year old son. But, I can't ride the bike with him. That's fine because the dog needed a walk. He is a Border Collie...thus he always needs a walk. So, does my 5 year old come to think of it. 9 at night and he was running around the store attracting positive attention as usual. A man was looking at the bin of prebagged and netted pistachios. Escher ran up and put his hand on each bag.

So no bike ride last night for me. I used to prefer to walk even if it's was a long distance. But, I'm starting to find the riding easier. I still haven't ventured out of the safety of my neighborhood yet. But, what started this? Oh yes. My 5 year old cannot ride anywhere with me & he doesn't fit in a *seat (see explanation below) & I hate bike trailers. So, I went lusting after and Xtracycle again and found a local couple who I think I'll lust after, too. Is that ok? I mean I'm just lusting after their biking, not them as individuals. I promise not to hunt them down or anything either.

I once, and only once, had a child's seat on the back of my bike. I'm not sure if I'm too short or what. But, every time I came to a stop my giant child & bike came crashing down to the side. Try as I might to keep the bike upright it's just horrifying to me. Well, perhaps it's not horrifying, just horribly embarrassing and a blow to my tough I know I'm short but I can do what I want spirit.

Time to Travel

2008-07-22T11:34:00.000-07:00

Are you planning any cultural studies or perhaps just touching on different countries? Here is a passport to print up & it includes "stamps" to modify for each destination.

Joy Sucking (A post from my wordpress bog) a reason to homeschool

2008-07-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

If you have read my wordpress blog this might not be new to you.

JOY SUCKING

Joy sucking is probably the number one reason our boys are not in school. And, it’s something we fight about. Perhaps we are spoiled little brats, the whole lot of us. But, my husband and I usually work pretty darn hard to rearrange our life, put off dreams and desires and then reroute and find all new dreams which include little adults. My two oldest both attended public Kindergarten and half of first grade. By the middle of first grade they were sucked dry.

My first went to Kindergarten even though I thought we would homeschool. It was close, seemed safe and it turned out he enjoyed it and I enjoyed the break. My second wanted to go to school and bless his heart the lucky little soul he got the one Queen of Kindergarten teachers. She who lives in a tiny little speck of a town. She was a gem. She actually hugged children and got down on her knee to insure they knew they were cared for. That is a teacher.

Summer with a Bike for Groceries

2008-06-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

I have lived in places previously...in places with my bike. A sweet little GT boys bike with a little basket on the back. I've dragged it from home to home. But, this is the first home where my little GT feels loved. Because a bike was meant to be ridden.

It's wonderful to ride my bike with my oldest son. I enjoyed his little years. But, this is new. He is becoming a little man. He is becoming more friend than son. And, it's strange, but fun.

When you haven't ridden a bike in years you have to limit the amount of groceries that you can place in those little baskets. Good for the budget and really good for the bum!

We spent $20 and have dinner tonight with leftovers for lunch tomorrow, coffee & sugar, cat food, and sandalwood soap.

What drives me crazy is my will power. I do not save money when I shop at Costco. I actually hate having extra food around the house. I wish I could replace our fridge with a mini-fridge. It's insane with 5 people in our house. It feels so wrong yet so right. We don't need all that food. I love being challenged to figure out what to make out of leftovers and frozen bits of veggies. I don't like trying to have willpower against that giant box of low fat ice cream bars my children talk me into.

When I sat down to post to my blog the first thing I remembered was Rebecca's Eating Organic on a Budget. It seems impossible to live that with a family. But, it is plausible. It is nice to occasionally get a trip to Costco (I do sometimes send the husband on his way home from work), but it isn't necessary. You can teach your children to enjoy simple food. You don't have to stock up or rely on hamburger to be thrifty.

The Year of Living Biblically

2008-06-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

Wow, this finally came in from the library. I was well over 100 in the waiting list. So, far it's hilarious and insightful. It's a good look at how those from the outside often see "us". By us I mean those who identify as believers in a Judeo-Christian God.

School is like a zoo...

2008-06-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

but for children.

This is what my 11 year old son told me today. He was sitting at the table. I was sitting on the couch with my laptop. The other boys were outside on the sidewalk. It runs along the side of the kitchen. They had the kitchen door open. At very specific times of the day we hear loud children, screeching little girls especially. It was funny at first. But, somedays it's disturbing. But, it took my sons comment to make me see why.

He told me they make them sit all day and do tricks. Then they let them out of that box. Then the children go crazy for a while. (For the record this child has attended public school.)

At least they still get recess.

Mancala Math & Lullabies

2007-10-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

Posted by shangrilewis on 22 October, 2007

I admit there are times we worry about our youngest. No one can understand him because of his speech “delays”. His last therapist always did this slow talking thing and he adapted that. It makes him sound slow.

But, what if we didn’t see him as a problem or as delayed?

He is loving Mancala. We count as we put stones in each section. He put one in his Mancala and showed me how he had four with his fingers and that if he has one more (he showed me his thumb) he would have a full hand! Yeah…that’s Math.

Tonight I sang him Hush little Baby.

He’s heard this so many times through the years.

But, tonight he told me

it was so beautiful

and then he sang me a song.

His car song he called it.

But, for me it’s heaven…

pure and beautiful heaven.

Women in Love

2007-08-18T01:52:00.000-07:00

Allright, here is the secret book from which that largish word comes from...ugh that is how I feel when I read this book. But, luckily I did a bit of research to answer a question and I found out someone will die before the end. I'm so excited..I can now go back to reading.

Really so far it seems there is enough sexual connotations to get you to the next string of rather lengthy words OR to the mention of something that would seem to make the characters or perhaps the author appear to be rather learned. Perhaps I will feel differently after reading it with a group of people.

Todays word is megalomania, n.

2007-08-09T22:17:00.000-07:00

If you see a word you do not know then you look in the Oxford English Dictionary. Here you go!!

In Psychol.: delusions of power or self-importance, esp. resulting from mental illness; a passion for grandiose schemes. More generally: lust for power, a desire to control.

1887 Polit. Sci. Q. 2 157 Dr. François Roy of Quebec testified..that [Louis] Riel was..afflicted with a form of insanity known as megalomania, by which he labored under a delusion that he had a mission to perform for the Métis. 1890 J. S. BILLINGS National Med. Dict. II. 723 Monomania involving the idea of a divine or celestial origin or connection..[is] a species of megalomania. 1892 Contemp. Rev. Feb. 166 Here again megalomaniathe desire to ‘do the great’had the upper hand. 1897 LD. SALISBURY in Daily Chron. 17 Nov. 8/2 A common intellectual complaint..which I may name (as I see Mr. Gladstone has consecrated the word) megalomaniathe passion for big things simply because they are big. 1904 A. GRIFFITHS Fifty Years Public Service xiv. 222 Megalomania was strangely prevalent among these criminal lunatics. 1914 W. J. LOCKE Jaffery viii, This is absurd. It's megalomaniala folie des grandeurs. 1959 Listener 17 Sept. 451/3 The later rake's progress toward corruption, aggression, humiliating subjection to Hitler, pathological megalomania and final catastrophe. 1974 F. FORSYTH Dogs of War II. ix. 169 Megalomania..is present in many people outside lunatic asylums and is usually..interpreted, at least when present in the rich and famous, as merely exaggerated egocentricity. 1993 Toronto Sun 17 June 12/1 The Tories reveal their megalomania, insecurity and arrogant intolerance for dissent.

Now I want to see if you are paying attention to everything I write...pardon my grammar. What am I reading?

Have something to carry and want to skip that bag...

2007-07-21T23:30:00.000-07:00

Well the Government of Japan can help

A Black Bookstore

2007-07-21T22:32:00.000-07:00

It isn't right when your 10 year old thinks this is funny. I know I shouldn't let him watch it. I shouldn't let him stay up so late.

But, darn it what kind of life can you live without being introduced to British Comedy.

I'm a firm believer that the US would be a whole lot easier to live in if more people were introduced to good British Comedy at an early age.

Just a reminder...

2007-07-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

(I like those dots even if though they don't belong there...it's like a pause)

I have to moderate posts. I know it's a pain for some people. But, if I don't I get the strangest stuff posted here. I'm not perfect. I can be a bit racy at times. But, still people are so bizarre. So, for those who aren't just give me time during the busy weeks.

It's a city mailbox

2007-07-10T17:38:00.000-07:00

0710071720.jpg
Originally uploaded by Mr&MrsLewis

Yes readers, may I share my excitement.

I have my very own blue man
in little shorts
(well, I share him with the neighbors)
who walks
from door to door to deposit mail
in boxes which are hung
right next to front doors.

Front doors
which are perfectly placed
at the front of houses
(remember my old door which was
at the side of the house and opened into the kitchen)
which line up
in little rows
which line up
along
perfect
little
sidewalks.

Fall Quarter for Big Girls

2007-07-10T17:19:00.000-07:00

I've only got the book list for two of my classes. Since, I keep enjoying Native American classes I think I'll go ahead and minor in it.

My first class description and book list:
Survey of contemporary Native-American people, cultures, and issues. Focus on modern experiences through readings from Native-American autobiographies, contemporary narratives and literature, and reports of important topical issues, e.g., water rights, Indian gaming, treaty law.

BERNIE WHITEBEAR REYES
BLOOD STRUGGLE WILKINSON
CHIEF RED FOX IS DEAD (CUSTOM) RAWLS
SPIRIT & REASON DELORIA

Here is my English class which is my major.
Intensive examination of one or a few major works of literature. Classroom work to develop skills of careful and critical reading. Book selection varies, but reading consists of major works by important authors and of selected supplementary materials.

ART LOVER MASO
LONE RANGER & TONTO FISTFIGHT IN HEAVEN ALEXIE
WAVES * ANNOTATED (ED HITE) WOOLF
WHITE NOISE DELILLO
WOMEN IN LOVE (FARMER ED)

Not sure if I have shared my schedule or not yet. But, I thought I might! I'm, also, talking a geography class on immigrants. Thought it sounded interesting and it fits the slot I needed.