Simply Grand Central

Sunday, July 17, 2011

2011-07-17T17:09:00.001-05:00

Z-man competed in his first official 5K race yesterday.

He was very excited to do this and was happy with how he ran.

The rain held off as well as this extreme heat wave we are now experiencing.

Next year I would like to participate in the race. . .except I’ll be walking, not running.

Last Tuesday I had a fun afternoon of taking pictures with my friend, Kathy.

This is my favorite. . .

The catch lights in her eyes are just what I am looking for. The sun was shining toward her but she was shaded enough to not be squinting or have shadows on her face.

Mr. A lost his second tooth last week. . .and swallowed it!

One afternoon I noticed that I’d been running around with only one earing. Did the other one fall off I wondered? I sure hoped not. . .it was a nice pair which Mr. E. bought after I had my ears pierced at age 40. I was relieved to see the other earing was sitting on my bathroom counter. I evidently was racing around in the morning, got distracted and never put the other one on!

I only have three kids home this week.

So I hope to make it a productive one around here.

Sunday Blessings,

cousins

2011-07-07T23:01:00.001-05:00

I took many family reunion photos over the past holiday weekend.

Mr. E was my right hand man for each of these shoots and I could not have done it without him OR Papa and Oma who watched the chickens while we slipped away.

Cousins are different beautiful flowers in the same garden

– Author Unknown.

Today we said good-bye to H-man who headed out of town on an adventure with

Papa and Oma.

They will pick up cousin Rachael on Saturday and head to Pennsylvania for an intergenerational Road Scholar trip. This will be the third journey Oma and Papa have taken with the grandchildren.

No doubt, many memories will be created and we will enjoy their stories of remembering upon their return.

Lovin’ these beautiful summer days!

Happy Thursday!

workshop, wildflowers & worry

2011-07-03T11:24:00.001-05:00

Last weekend I attended a Donna Boucher photography workshop.

It was a wonderful adventure for me .

I was happy to have a few of my lingering photography questions answered.

Lighting is always key.

And when the lighting is just right your subject “pops”. . .

Donna has a fun personality and planned a full day of learning for all six of us.

Yesterday Mr. E. picked wildflowers for me from the side of the road.

Aren’t they purty?

I always wondered if it was legal to pick wildflowers off the roadside.

So I Googled it.

I Google everything.

Here’s what I found. . .

Wildflower picking or plucking in illegal in Wisconsin, and Wisconsin is one of the few states that has a wildflower protection law. It was passed in 1923. People then were concerned that indiscriminate wildflower picking and grazing were causing the decline of these attractive plants.

So shhhh don’t tell.

I’m going to continue enjoying my flowers.

The message at church today was based on Proverbs 3:5-6.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not upon your own understanding in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”

This is a verse to ward off the worries life throws my way.

Simply trust.

Don’t lean.

Walk in His path.

Sunday Blessings,

the American dollhouse

2011-06-14T07:30:00.000-05:00

Recently cousin Sara turned seven years old.

She and Oma planned a special trip to the American Girl Place

downtown Chicago and invited Little A and I to go along!

Little A was excitedly looking forward to our trip and frequently

asked, “When are we going to the American dollhouse?”

This was our first time to the Disneyworld of Dolls!

It was quite something to see the enormity of a store

selling not only dolls but girl and doll matching clothes,

doll hair salon, doll hospital, a café with special seats

for the dolls, and every doll accessory imaginable.

Quite a concept which has caught the eye of most every girl in America.

We had a great time.

Little A was “all eyes” from the moment we entered the store.

I loved staying downtown Chicago.

I lived downtown during a semester in college.

I loved it then too.

What a different lifestyle it would be to raise a family

in a city such as Chicago vs. the rural woods of Wisconsin.

I think I could enjoy the Chicago city living. . . but Mr. E would have

none of that and I wouldn’t change him for the world.

The rainy, windy, cold, cloudy weekend didn’t damper our

spirits. The birthday girl received a rain-check on the carriage ride

with Oma since it was even too nasty outside for the horses.

Thanks for including us in your special weekend, Sara.

We made fun girl-time memories!

Happy Tuesday,

summertime Sunday

2011-06-12T21:32:00.001-05:00

Today was a spectacular summertime Sunday.

72 degrees

low humidity

sunshine

slight breeze

no mosquitoes

family time at the park

kids splashing in the water

swinging on swings

listening to the crack of the baseball bat

picnic sandwiches

simply. ideal.

We had it comin’ after a very long winter in these up north places.

Yep, we’re doing a little happy jig singin’, Yippee, summertime’s here!

Then followed that beautiful season... Summer....
Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light; and the landscape
Lay as if new created in all the freshness of childhood.
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Psalm 74:17 (NIV): It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter.

Summertime blessings,

The truth is. . .

2011-05-31T23:11:00.001-05:00

It’s Tuesday night and the truth around here is. . .

I just cleaned the griddle we used for pancakes. . . last Saturday morning!
“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did,

but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Maya Angelou

(This has been ringing in my ears since I read it two weeks ago. It’s just so true.)

My bread making hobby has been fun, and tasty, and made those numbers on my scale rise!
Z-man has allergies. The real question is, is he allergic to our cats?
The fourth load of laundry from today just finished drying.
The garden was officially planted this weekend thanks to Mr. E and Little A!
Some kids get pretty creative during “table time” . . .

“It shall be well”, is a truth Mr. E is known for saying. It shall be well because God will never leave us nor forsake us.
Two cats in the house is CRAZIER than one!
I’m walking a bit out of my comfort zone and heading to Madison for a photography workshop in June! All. by. myself.

Happy last day in May!

Heather

songs

2011-05-25T23:30:00.001-05:00

The Bible talks about us worshiping our Lord in song.

The Lord will often place a worship song on my heart and the

lyrics will play over and over in my mind.

Tonight when I came across these photos from Easter,

the song Because He Lives came to my mind.

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal, and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy he gives.
But greater still the calm assurance,
This child can face uncertain days because He lives.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.

And then one day I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain.
And then as death gives way to victory,
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone!
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living just because He lives!

Words: Bill & Gloria Gaither

During my “quiet time” this morning the following song was placed upon my heart. . .

On Christ The Solid Rock I Stand

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus' blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
But wholly trust in Jesus' Name.

Chorus:
On Christ the solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness seems to hide His face
I rest on His unchanging grace
In every high and stormy gale
My anchor holds within the veil.

Chorus:
On Christ the solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand.

His oath, His covenant, His blood
Support me in the whelming flood
When all around my soul gives way
He then is all my Hope and Stay.

Chorus:
On Christ the solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand.

When He shall come with trumpet sound
Oh may I then in Him be found
Dressed in His righteousness alone
Faultless to stand before the throne.

Chorus:
On Christ the solid Rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
All other ground is sinking sand.

The Gospel song, "On Christ, The Solid Rock I Stand" is also known as

"My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less".

This song was written by Edward Mote in 1834.

The Lord speaks to us through song.

May my ears be open to hear what He wants to tell me through song.

Thursday Blessings,

Heather

Rose

2011-05-11T21:20:00.000-05:00

All our kittens were sold and have now gone to their respective homes.

We kept the brown rosette female.

We named her Rose.

I call her Rosie.

We wondered how Lucy and Rosie would get along.

So far, they can be seen cuddling on our bed during the day

or chasing each other around the house in the evening.

We’re training Rosie to NOT jump on the kitchen counters.

She learned that bad habit from her mother who we continue to admonish for such actions.

mother and daughter. . .

I will be seeing my mom and sister this weekend downtown Chicago.

As Little A says. . . We’re going on a trip to the American Dollhouse!” (The American Girl)

We hope to take a mother and daughters picture while we are together.

Speaking of Little A, she had a “first” experience. . .

When I woke up from an afternoon nap, I asked Mr. C where everyone was?

Walking the streets collecting worms for fishing.

What? Little A, too??

Since I was hearing thunder, rain was falling, and lightning was lighting up the sky . .

I flew to the car to drive and rescue the crew.

I find them only a block away, looking at me like. . . what’s the matter, mom?

The trees are shading us from the rain. We’re not too wet, they explain to me.

As we pull into the garage everyone starts piling out and Little A says,

“I’m soaked!”. Yet she seems undaunted from the experience.

She never wants to be left out of the fun. . . even worm finding fun!

Happy Wednesday!

Heather

wishes

2011-05-08T23:37:00.001-05:00

One day of no cooking is a wish come true in my book.

Today was such a day for me.

And I loved it.

It was a beautiful spring afternoon. 68 degrees and sunshine.

After having snow flurries last week, this was a welcome change for us.

My wish for a picture of the kids?

Granted.

Yet typical in nature.

Everybody look at the camera and smile. . . .

This picture makes me laugh.

Here are a few others from earlier in the day.

I knew I couldn’t go wrong with this one. . .

This kids took turns with the camera to capture these at my request. . .

Zach’s wish came true when he was able to drive the 4-wheeler down to the lake and

go fishing.

Yesterday was opening fishing on the lakes up here.

(Others had to walk to the lake.)

Little A’s wish came true when we finally retrieved her yellow trike out of winter storage last week.

The rest of the story. . . Amongst the smiles of the day was a trip to the urgent care (sinus infection), a cut to the foot, and one with the stomach flu this evening. All are resting peacefully as a write. Thank you, Lord.

Sunday Blessings,

Happy Mother’s Day!

2011-05-07T19:26:00.001-05:00

I love my mother as the trees love water and sunshine - she helps me grow, prosper, and reach great heights. ~Terri Guillemets

Happy Mother’s Day, Mom!

You know you have an extra-special mom when. . .

You’re in your 40’s and you begin seeing your mom in yourself. . . and you’re happy about it!

And I have a feeling that when I’m a Grandma (or Oma) I will see my mom in me too. . .or at least

I hope I will!

She is a beautiful model of motherhood and omahood.

I love you, Mom!

And to my children, I say. . . When God blessed me with you, He made my dreams come true!

I love you more than words can say!

One of my mother’s day wishes is to capture a new picture of all of them together,

outside, smiling, and happy. . . some wishes do come true.

We’ll see if they’ll grant me my wish tomorrow.

And to my mom-in-law I say . . . Thanks for being an awesome example. I will potentially have five daughter-in-laws.

And when I do, I will remember you, and try to love and let go all at the same time just as you have so generously done.

This Mother’s Day is a very special one for a very special couple who have traveled

a long and difficult road on their journey to being parents.

My thoughts are with Bob and Beth and my heart is tickled pink with joy as

tomorrow they will meet their Mia Grace and bring her home from China.

Congratulations and a very blessed Mother’s Day to you!!

Happy Saturday!

Heather

welcoming spring

2011-04-09T23:39:00.001-05:00

With temperatures in the 50’s today, it is beginning to feel like spring.

I even opened a few windows.

I love the fresh air smell in the house after a long winter.

The children spotted a robin in the garden yesterday.

Papa and Oma arrived home safely from Arizona.

And Grandpa and Grandma are safe and sound back at home too

after spending the winter months in Florida.

Little A now proudly sings her ABC’s.

I must get that on video.

A few of the men-folk are turkey hunting this weekend.

The others are involved in serious air-soft gun wars.

This evening brought thunder, lighting and rain.

Maybe the snow will be gone by morning.

Probably not.

But almost!

Someone reminded me today that last year we had snow fall in May!

Yikes!

Do I dare put away all the kids’ snow gear.

I better not or we’ll surely have more snow!

Yes, we are all excited about springtime!

Happy Saturday!

(Or as Little A says. . . “See Ya!”)

P.S. Adorable headband courtesy of talented knitter, Cathy Iverson.

Thank you, Cathy!!

my helper

2011-03-31T22:48:00.001-05:00

Little A is turning into quite the little helper in the kitchen.

Tonight she “helped” roll out the biscuits for dinner.

She was very proud.

She politely posed for a few pictures but then announced,

“I need to be back working!”

She reminded me that she needed her apron.

And that her stool should be closer to the counter.

I followed her directions quite well.

I love you, my little helper.

Happy last day in March!

warriors

2011-03-25T22:10:00.001-05:00

Now that basketball season is over the boys will join Mr. C and get their exercise and “kicks” with Tae-Kwan-do.

They received their uniforms last night.

They tried them on this morning and instantly morphed into ninja warriors ready for battle.

Little A, never one to be left out of the fun, immediately changed into her Spider Girl costume.

As I began blogging about Christians being warriors in God’s battle, Mr. H came to my side and was reading over my shoulder.

I will quote what he had to say about this. . .

“Gear up for the battle of God’s war. God’s war is the battle of sin to defeat Satan.”

Amen.

“Therefore put on the armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:13-17

Amen.

Happy Friday Night,

top ten

2011-03-23T16:20:00.001-05:00

The top ten happenings and trivia from around here. . .

10. All of Lucy’s kittens have been sold except one brown rosette female which we are keeping. We are still deciding on a name. Ethel, Samantha, & Star are the current names in the running.

9. The boys completed another season of basketball and LOVED every minute of it!

Mr. C and J-man played on both the homeschool sports club and the local traveling team. That’s one sure way to stay in shape, huh?

8. Our Sonlight science program had us read a few Facts, Figures and Records yesterday from the Usborne Complete Book of the Human Body.

Here are a few interesting ones. . .

Most children born to one woman – A Russian woman named Mrs. Vassilyev, who lived from 1707 to 1782, gave birth to the greatest number of children on record – 69 altogether. They included 16 sets of twins and seven sets of triplets. (Could this actually be possible??)

Did you know?

It’s impossible to sneeze with your eyes open.
Babies don’t have fingerprints. The ridges on your fingers first appear when you are about three months old.
Human bone is stronger than concrete or steel.
Your mouth releases about three cups of saliva a day.
You shed about 40 million dead skin cells every day. In a lifetime, you’ll shed up to 45 pounds of skin.
The human brain can make 20 million billion calculations per second, making it faster than any computer in the world.

The oldest person – There are many claims to the longest lifespan, but the oldest person for whom tere are reliable records was Jeanne Calment from France. She was born in 1875 and died in 1997, at the age of 122, and she was active throughout her old age. She was still riding a bicycle at the age of 100, acted in a film at the age of 114, and released a pop record at the age of 121.

7. Last night we received our annual March snowstorm. The sun is now shining and the kids are having a blast playing in the new white stuff!

6. Our children’s program at church had a Derby Race on Monday. The kids love choosing their design and painting their car while Daddy adds weights and places the axels and wheels “just so” for them to be the speediest cars on the track!

5. Scrabble is our current game of choice on Daddy’s Droid phone. It can become a bit addictive!

4. Little A is still taking swimming lessons. Notice I did not say “enjoying” swimming lessons.

3. I later learned that Mr. E’s comment about my new cabbage roll recipe last night . . . “Wow, I haven’t had these in years!” really meant . . .”I never did care for these and you don’t have to make them again for a few years.”

2. My annual spring cleaning inside and outside of my car this past weekend felt so great. Wow, it sure does get dirty over the winter months!

1. My project this week is cleaning out the office which is why I now have a clear pathway to the computer and can do some blogging! Yeah!!

Happy Wednesday!

7!

2011-03-11T19:14:00.001-06:00

Our youngest son turns 7 today and boy is he excited about that!

He has requested crepes with strawberries and maple syrup for dinner and an ice cream cake “just like Mrs. H makes” for dessert.

Mom is fulfilling his requests, tho I have a feeling the cake will not be quite as good as Mrs. H’s.

I had 7 questions for the birthday boy. . .

1. What is your most favorite movie?

Star Wars! And my favorite character is Yoda.

2. What is your favorite time of year?

Fall, because we can play football outside.

3. What is your favorite subject in school.

Spelling because it is the easiest and quickest.

4. If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go?

The Wisconsin Dells arcade and swimming pool.

5. If you could meet anyone, who would that be?

Tobie Mac. He is a singer.

Or Danny Kuiper from the high school basketball team.

6. Where is your favorite place to go out to eat?

Paul Bunyan’s for their potatoes and gravy and donuts!

7. When you are all grown up, what do you hope to be?

A football player, wide receiver, for the Green Bay Packers.

Mom’s 7 fun facts about Mr. A. . .

1. Photogenic!

2. Loves to laugh, always has. I can remember him giggling often as a baby.

3. Protects and loves his little sister beautifully!

4. Man, that boy can eat!

5. He wants to take piano lessons like his brothers.

6. Every night he wants to say his highs and lows for the day.

7. He will always remind me to pray with him at bedtime.

Dad’s 7 fun facts about Mr. A. . .

1. Great smile!

2. Great brother to Little A.

3. Loves to play the Wii!

4. Very fast, focused & good scoring soccer player!

5. A little slow at “clean up your room” and other house chores.

6. He may only be 7 but he thinks he should be 13 and included in ALL the big brothers activities.

7. He sure does a great job making me eggs in the morning for breakfast!

Happy Friday from Birthday Central!

Heather

ready, set, swim

2011-03-02T17:35:00.001-06:00

She has been requesting, “Me go swimming too?” as she hears her brothers talk about their swim lessons.

So this week I decided it was Little A’s lucky day!

She was going to swimming lessons!

Yeah!!!

She’s a smilin’. . .

She’s sassy. . .

She’s ready to go swimmin’!!

And then as the instructor takes her hand and has her roll over onto her back. . .

“Nooooo

All Done

Mommmyyyy

I want Mommyyyyy”

Courage turns to fear.

Yet after a very long twenty minute lesson, we were walking to the car and I hear

Little A say, . . .

”That was fun!”

I may need to remind her of that next week!

Happy Wednesday!

Heather

style

2011-02-28T10:54:00.001-06:00

When I caught a glimpse of Little A on Sunday morning, I had to smile.

She had chosen her own clothes and dressed herself.

The shirt is pink. The dress is red. The tights are brown.

And the shoes? They are on the wrong feet.

And yes, this is exactly how she went dressed to church.

I didn’t change a thing.

Such is life for the youngest of 6. . .if you’re out of your pajamas you are

good to go!

Wonder where she gets her sense of style?

Maybe from this style queen. . .

Yep, that’s me!

It’s almost March! Spring is around the corner.

Happy Monday!

Heather @Simply Grand Style

wondering

2011-02-23T22:33:00.001-06:00

I’m sending birthday wishes to my grandpa who turns 94 today!

My sister and aunt took Grandpa out for lunch and sent me this cell phone picture.

Unfortunately, Grandpa recently fell and needs a sling to keep his arm secured while his shoulder heals.

We all admire Grandpa for his cheerful spirit and ability to be thankful for his blessings amidst the trials of life. Grandpa has always been able to look at the bright side.

I’m wondering. . . will I live to be 94?

Only God knows.

If I do, I no doubt will have been through more life challenges, heartache. . .

and joy and well.

But will I be thankful through the trials?

I look ahead at the future for my kids. . .

And wonder how we will lead, guide, let go and watch them fly, fail, laugh, cry as they navigate their own waters of life.

More and more I find myself thinking (the Holy Spirit nudging). . .PRAY!

I must pray without ceasing.

During our school table time we are reading the book, Heaven is for Real, A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back.

Our reading today was an encouragement for us to pray because God really is listening!

Here’s a brief synopsis of the book:

Colton, not yet four years old, told his parents he left his body during the surgery – and authenticated that claim by describing exactly what his parents were doing in another part of the hospital while he was being operated on. He talked of visiting heaven and relayed stories told to him by people he met there whom he had never met in life, sharing events that happened even before he was born. He also astonished his parents with descriptions and obscure details about heaven that matched the Bible exactly, though he had not yet learned to read.

This book gives a thrilling glimpse into eternity for those who believe and encourages those who doubt.

As believers we wonder what heaven will be like.

The kids ask questions about heaven.

Although some details leave us wondering we know it will be perfect.

Perfect joy, perfect peace, perfect worship, perfect love. . .

Whether age 94, 44, or 4 we are all one day closer to eternity.

I am thankful beyond words that I know where I’m going and I don’t need to wonder about that.

May we as believers be a beacon of light to share our Jesus with those who may not know Him.

Let’s not let others be left wondering. . . and let them live life with the peace of knowing.

Happy Wednesday. . .last one in February!

Heather

family time

2011-02-20T23:02:00.001-06:00

I am noticing that as the kids get older, activities outside the home increase and the amount of family time at home decreases. In the last six months we have tried to be intentional about setting aside a weekly “family night”. We usually have dinner together, play a card game, or watch a movie. Today was a good family day.

After church and a simple sandwich lunch we watched the inspiring movie, “Miracle” staring Kurt Russell.

Here’s the synopsis. I’m sure many of you have already seen this movie and may remember watching the actual game in the 1980 Olympics.

Storyline

The inspiring story of the team that transcended its sport and united a nation with a new feeling of hope. Based on the true story of one of the greatest moments in sports history, the tale captures a time and place where differences could be settled by games and a cold war could be put on ice. In 1980, the United States Ice Hockey team's coach, Herb Brooks, took a ragtag squad of college kids up against the legendary juggernaut from the Soviet Union at the Olympic Games. Despite the long odds, Team USA carried the pride of a nation yearning from a distraction from world events. With the world watching the team rose to the occasion, prompting broadcaster Al Michaels' now famous question, to the millions viewing at home: Do you believe in miracles? Yes! Written by Sujit R. Varma

Rated PG for language and some rough sports action.

We then went to a local indoor pool for some fun swim time.

I brought my suit with the intention of getting wet but ended up sitting on the sidelines and taking pictures since I only brought the TOP of my suit and not the bottom! Ooops! My suit bottom is definitely not a bikini! It’s a skirt. You know, the kind that covers more?!

Have you seen this card from Hallmark?

The caption is. . .

"I think the ruffle really makes a difference, don’t you?"

I giggle every time I see this!

I even have a package of napkins with this drawing and caption. I’ll have to pull them out for a girlfriends get-together.

Anyway, back to family time. . .

We then ate Pizza Hut pizza (thanks to a gift card!) and got everyone to bed by 9:00.

The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have passed at home in the bosom of my family. ~Thomas Jefferson

Happy Sunday!

socks

2011-01-29T22:14:00.001-06:00

Sometimes I wonder. . .

Am I the only mom who constantly finds socks all. over. the. house?

Socks here, socks there, socks everywhere.

Socks belong on feet, in a drawer, or in the dirty hamper, right?

Not so in this house.

Socks are strewn throughout. Simply left wherever they are removed.

Here are a few photos taken moments ago displaying proof of our sock chaos. . .

Hmmm. . . better add this sock training to our morning table time, huh?

Training. . . I’m always a bit afraid that I may forget to instruct my children in some basic task. Such as, “Wash behind your ears.” (I think about this one frequently when I’m taking a shower.)

Or, “Don’t put a knife inside the toaster!”.

Have I said all I need to say for their safety, health and welfare?

Have I trained enough and instilled Godly character and principles into them?

And then I remember this:

Your children will become what you are; so be what you want them to be. David Bly

Now that gives me pause.

I’m God’s work in progress and whatever good is in me now, or will be a part of me in the future is from Him, through Him and in Him.

Only by His grace, love, patience and wisdom will I ever be what I want my children to be.

And I realize. . .They are each His work in progress and all the good that is in them now or will be a part of them in the future is from Him, through Him and in Him.

Only by His grace, love, patience and wisdom will my children ever be what I’m desiring them to become.

Happy Saturday,

Heather

mamas and papa

2011-01-22T23:10:00.001-06:00

This mama is coming up for air after a day of swimming in a sea of paperwork as I move forward in my month of home organization projects. Drawers which look like this . . .

are my goal. They bring a smile to my face. And woe to him who may try to mess up my newly organized drawer! I really should have taken a before picture of this particular drawer which had turned into a place to stash everything and anything. But I was afraid to stop my momentum by retrieving the camera. . . if the momentum stops, I may opt for a nap which is always a nearby option in my mind!

At the end of the day, tucking my little ones into bed always brings a smile to my heart too. Little A has moved into a “big girl” bed this weekend. I’ll be selling her crib set on Craig’s List to make more room for her “things” which seem to be growing as rapidly as she.

Mama Lucy is beautifully caring for her four little kittens who are now on the MOVE!

Expending all that energy into learning how to walk makes for a tired little kitty!

And this papa? Very proud indeed. He LOVES watching these kittens grow and play.

I do too. It’s amazing how much time passes as we sit and watch these cute little ones.

As we grow to love them, we also know we will be selling three of them, and keeping the brown spotted female.

I’ve set up a website and we’ve advertised on several free classified sites which the breeder recommended. We’ve sold one of the males already and have received two inquiries of the snow. Our website is www.simplygrand.webs.com. On the bottom of our front page we have this verse. . .

"You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased." Revelation 4:11

We’re enjoying His creation!

Happy Saturday,

extracurricular

2011-01-12T21:22:00.001-06:00

Here are the kids’ latest top three extracurricular activities. . .

ELECTRONIC MONOPOLY!

Due to the generosity and kindness of a friend, the boys were given and taught how to play the Electronic Banking Monopoly game. They love it! It’s the daily school break fun!

SLEDDING!

And if they’re not playing Monopoly, they’re sledding outside on the “hill”. . . no matter how cold the temperature. The slope out front provides hours of fun for all. Yes, even Little A has a blast and now wants to sled “by myself” and bursts into tears when I call them all back inside.

EATING!

The boys are always ready to eat! Especially when they come back inside after playing outside in that cold winter air. Tonight we had a surprise treat. . . Grandpa’s Apple Slices! Grandpa made a fresh batch of this special dessert and drove up north for us to eat it together. This was Great Grandma E’s famous recipe.

Thanks, Grandpa!

That pretty much sums up the kids’ life outside of school and basketball!

Mom’s extracurricular activities do not include sledding or Monopoly AND I’m trying to cut back on the eating. . . a total of 5 lbs. over the holidays as I decided to step on the scale this week for my moment of truth. Those pounds sure go on easier than they come off, huh? My spare time has been spent creating our new website for our Simply Grand Bengals Cattery. Our hope is to advertise on the cat websites and sell at least three of the four kittens. I’ve also cleaned and organized a few drawers in the kitchen and bedroom closets. Love it!! What a difference. . .I smile every time I open them. Now to just keep them this way, right?!

Happy Wednesday,

Heather

kittens-11 days

2011-01-07T17:51:00.001-06:00

See how much bigger they are?!

Their eyes opened yesterday at 10 days old.

Little A says, “I want to hold it on my yap.”

Their nails are super sharp!

The white one seems most content being held.

No doubt, all these kittens will be well socialized. . . whether they like it or not!

Names are being tossed around. . . Rudy, Desi, Cheerios, Theo, Trudy.

The kids like to think of names from the TV shows we are watching on DVD.

A nasty cold bug has landed on four of our crew.

So far, Mr. C and I continue to be healthy.

The masks and gloves we wear 24/7 must help!

Just kidding, but every year during flu season I think of doing just that!

Happy Friday!

onward we go

2011-01-02T21:52:00.001-06:00

It was a blessed holiday.

Lots of traditions and celebrating. . . truffle making, Chinese take-out on Christmas Eve,

cinnamon rolls and egg bake, knitted hats & slippers, happy birthday Jesus cakes,

sparkling cider, Pictionary, measuring the kids’ heights, stockings, gift giving, root beer,

caramel corn, the Cosby Show, gingerbread houses, visiting with friends & family, fruit

fondue, pajamas, caroling. . .

And now a new year is upon us.

I don’t make resolutions per se, but I do find myself considering this a time of year for new beginnings. I’m cleaning kitchen drawers, re-organizing the pantry, making new chore lists for the kids, aspiring to accomplish more at homeschooling, committing to use more coupons, and desiring to add another day or two to my exercise program.

Onward I go, not in my own strength but in His.

Ephesians 6:10, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” (KJV)

Onward I go, remembering the battles I face are His, not mine.

2 Chronicles 12:15, “He said, "Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the LORD says: Do not be afraid! Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's.” (NLV)

“Go back?” he thought. “No good at all! Go sideways? Impossible! Go forward? Only thing to do! On we go!” So up he got, and trotted along with his little sword held in front of him and one hand feeling the wall, and his heart all of a patter and a pitter.
- J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit

Onward I go, in joy and peace.

Isaiah 55:12 - "You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands." (NIV)

(photo by Grandma E.)

Onward I go, in prayer.

Psalms 145:18 – “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” (NIV)

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16(NIV)

Happy New Year!

kittens!

2010-12-28T17:17:00.001-06:00

We arrived home from our holiday travels on Sunday evening.

We were thankful that Lucy had not delivered her kittens while we were gone.

(as were her loving caretakers)

Yesterday afternoon it became evident that “the time” was near.

Her water broke around 3:30 and she was “meowing” quite a bit.

I decided it was best that she stay in her room so that the birthing process did not

make a mess elsewhere in the house.

At 10:15pm Mr. C called for me to quickly come downstairs with the camera!

During the labor and delivery, Lucy was surprisingly very quiet.

Mr. C sat by Lucy for over three hours, petting her and making sure all went well.

Of course we had to wake the kids so they could witness the miracle of birth.

Her litter totaled four.

I had guessed three.

As you can see, the fourth born was a snow and the other three are either spotted

or marbled like Chief, the king. It’s hard to tell so soon.

We have not named them and we don’t know whether they are male or female quite yet.

Today Lucy has been sleeping with the little kitties cuddled up close to her.

Oh, so cute.

And oh sooo little.

Happy Tuesday!

favorites

2010-12-11T15:41:00.001-06:00

Favorite shots. . .Favorite things

The sun at your back in the coolness of a winter day;

A beautiful, red poinsettia plant;

Meeting your brand new, baby sister for the very first time;

and touching her little hand;

The taste of cold, wet snow;

A mother and her newborn child;

Laughing with your loved one;

The glow of the sunset;

And a strong shoulder to lean on.

Happy Saturday,

lights, camera, action

2010-12-04T14:18:00.001-06:00

The boys are playin’ with Christmas lights . . .

Mom’s playin’ with her camera. . .

And Lucy the cat? She’ll soon be adding to the action around here. . .

She will give birth to kittens later this month.

Her due date? December 25th.

When we are out of town!

We are praying for Lucy.

That’s she’s late. . .or early.

I’m praying for me. Adding to the ACTION around here?

Anyone want to buy a kitten?

Mr. E., our resident Bengal lover and breeder, would love to sell you one. . .or two!

Pictures of cute little kittens coming soon!

Happy Saturday!

the reason

2010-12-02T13:11:00.001-06:00

the hunt

the find

the treats

the reason!

through all the. . .

busyness,

gift giving,

card making,

busyness,

celebrating,

decorating,

busyness,

memory making,

baking,

and. . .

the busyness of this season,

I want to remember the REASON for it all.

The Word of God, Jesus Christ, on account of His great love

for mankind, became what we are in order to make us what

He is Himself. Bernard of Clairvaux

O holy night, the stars are brightly shining

It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth.

Long lay the world in sin and error pining

Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.

A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn

Fall on your knees, O, hear the angel voices

O night divine, O night when Christ was born. John S. Dwight

Happy Thursday!

winter or summer?

2010-11-26T16:07:00.001-06:00

Some kids have a hard time transitioning from summer to winter.

Happy Friday in winter. . . at least in the woods of Wisconsin that is.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T22:48:00.001-06:00

Over the river and through the woods to the cabin today we go.

Once the family picture is taken we’re all happy to be warm inside, out of the blowing cold snow.

Aunt Julie’s all set, with her master list in hand.

While helpers file in for the kitchen fun,

each are given their own part to play. . .

and make for a fine Thanksgiving feast band.

The food cannot be finer,

to feed this sixteen crew.

All leave the table well satisfied;

And thankful for bountiful blessings too.

Onward we go as presents are awaiting,

We celebrate Christmas now too!

Draw your number from the hat,

now wait your turn. . .

Go snatch someone’s gift or open one that’s new!

Time to settle in for a movie or a game,

win or lose it’s fun just the same.

Reflecting on a Happy Thanksgiving. . .

Now may my heart and mind offer a sacrifice of praise to Him continually, no matter what challenges I face. . .

An attitude of gratitude to set my daily pace.

Happy Thursday, Happy Thanksgiving 2010!

our thespians

2010-11-22T22:54:00.001-06:00

Some of our children have recently had the opportunity to be involved with our local high school and community theatre.

The first, a musical, was The Music Man.

The talent at the high school is spectacular.

From the acting, performing, dancing, directing and singing to the production team backstage, I was most impressed.

I still find myself humming, “76 Trombones”, or “Madam Librarrrrrrian!”

Such happy songs!

Currently, practices have begun for The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, at our local performing arts center.

Z-man, C-man and H-man have joined the cast.

They are excited.

Hopefully the excitement continues (for me too) as daily practices begin next week through December 19 during this busy holiday season.

I am thankful we live close to town and have friends involved who are kind enough to help shuttle the kids.

I’m thankful for these opportunities which may push their comfort zones, give them a boost of self-confidence and diminish their “screen time”.

Break a leg, boys!

Happy Monday of Thanksgiving week!

firsts

2010-11-12T23:07:00.001-06:00

I'll always remember 13 years ago tonight. . .

Giving birth to our firstborn, a son.

Is there anything that rocks your world as much as your first child?

My mom and I laugh how she ironed, yes ironed, his newborn clothes.

We were so proud.

All the firsts are soooo huge with your firstborn, aren't they?

I can still remember. . .

our first church service with him,

our first dinner at a restaurant with him,

our first Christmas,

daddy cutting his nails for the first time, IMMEDIATELY upon our arrival home from the hospital,

our first long distance trip.

Thirteen years ago? How can that be?

I am clearly seeing the reality of what many moms who have gone before me say: "Don't blink! They'll be grown before you know it."

Z-man had a rather unforgettable 13th birthday week.

He harvested a 6 point buck with his new bow!

He skinned and quartered it and we ate the tenderloins for his birthday dinner this evening.

The birthday blast continued in true boyish fashion. . .Nerf gun wars!

I have a feeling that 10 years from now, Little A may choose a slightly different

form of entertainment for her 13th birthday celebration. You think?

Z-man, we love you more than words can say.

We are as proud today as we were 13 years ago.

You will continue to lead the pack with many firsts.

We will continue to love you, "No matter what".

We look forward to seeing your relationship with God continue to grow and pray you will seek Him, love Him and serve Him in your many paths which lie ahead.

Our industrious, organized, smart, focused, fun-loving 13-year old son. . .

Happy, Happy Birthday! And may God give you many, many more!

Love Always,

Dad and Mom

Happy Friday!

the forecast

2010-11-03T19:38:00.001-05:00

Since the weather forecast for tomorrow includes possible snow showers. . .

(what? snow already? yep, this will actually be our second view of the white flurries for the season!)

I was happy to meet up with Jaci this afternoon and take her requested cross-country

photos.

She's a beautiful girl, sister in Christ, friend of our family and (we cannot believe) heading to college next fall.

This season Jaci successfully ran her fastest race time of her cross-country career.

What a grand finale!

I know she'll be tackling the upcoming college forecast of changes and challenges with God's grace, wisdom and a smile on her face.

Blessings, Jaci!

Happy Wednesday!

sweet treats

2010-10-31T21:26:00.001-05:00

I'm now in the older lifetime category.

Sweet treats will not be allowed for me . . .

starting tomorrow.

little pumpkin

2010-10-29T19:03:00.001-05:00

Look what was given to Little A after church on Sunday. . .

A pumpkin hat!

It was knitted by a very talented friend from church.

Little A knew right away it was a PUMPKIN!

After the wind storm had passed this week, I was able to take a few fun

photos.

I love the colors of fall!

At three, she didn't last long.

No more standing in one place!

This little pumpkin is off and running!

"Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God with a jubilant cry.

For the Lord Most High is awe-inspiring, a great King over all the earth."

Psalm 47 1-2

hissing and kissing

2010-10-22T16:55:00.001-05:00

Meet our new house guest who is visiting for the next month:

After realizing that our Lucy was not pregnant, Mr. E. decided to bring

the male, "Chief", to our home for the month in hopes that this visit

would be more. . . productive, if you will.

So far, Miss Lucy has not been a hospitable hostess. There

has been more hissing than kissing going on.

We've been told that given time, they will become quite fond of each other.

Although, this marble Bengal's name is Chief, Little A instantly

re-named him, "Bobcat". You see, he is absolutely enormous

compared to our Lucy who is on the petite side of the scale.

He seems the size of the bobcat on our family room wall which Mr. E. trapped

several years ago, thus "Bobcat" seems most appropriate to Little A..

"Hims not little, he big!"

"Him freak me out."

(Such is the vocabulary of a three year old with 5 older siblings!)

So there you have an update from the continuing saga of Simply Grand Bengals.

Happy Friday!

caught

2010-10-20T11:00:00.000-05:00

Five boys.

I'm trying to train five boys to be young gentlemen.

Yes, we live in the woods but please boys. . .

Let your behavior not portray that you were perhaps

raised by a pack of wolves! (That line's for you, Jane!)

No elbows on the table; No slurping; Please get a kleenex;

That piece of meat is WAY to big for our mouth; No toilet

talk; Wash your hands; Put your glass at 12:00; Do not

lick your plate; You need to ask to be excused; Bring your

plate to the sink. . .

Now we have two boys in the house who continually use

their shirt collar in place of a napkin.

It drives. me. crazy.

I know these bad habits will dissipate as the years go by (please!)

but for now I will have to remind them, each time they're caught,

to NOT wipe their face with their shirt! PLEASE!!

Happy Wednesday!. . . Happy Training!

just want you to know

2010-10-19T18:42:00.001-05:00

Last night Mr. E. was out of town.

The rest of us were at church til' 8pm and came home to a message

on the machine.

Still standing with my arms full of "stuff" I listened to Mr. E's voice. . .

I just want you to know I'm O.K.

I was in an accident. . .

My heart sank.

I was curious to know the details,

thankful that he was OK,

and anxious to talk with him.

Z-man flew to the phone before I had my hands free.

The good news was that the accident could have been worse, the

truck is still drivable, and he'll still be able to attend his meeting

at the capital tomorrow.

The bad news. . . his shoulder was injured and he's experiencing a

significant amount of pain.

Twelve hours later, we receive another call from Mr. E.:

I'm standing outside the capitol building. We've all been evacuated due

to a bomb threat!

At this point we can't help but laugh as I exclaim,

Quick, get in your truck and head home before more catastrophe follows you!!

Life.

You just never know what the day has in store.

So as the sun sets on this beautiful fall day I'll remember what HE

just wants us to know . . .

The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.

Those who know your name trust in you, for you , oh Lord, do not

abandon those who search for you. Psalm 9:9-10

This is my command; be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or

discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

Our peace depends on our willingness to see everything in God,

receive all from His hand, accept with gratitude just the portion

and cup He offers. Shall I charge Him with a mistake in His

measurements or with misjudging the sphere in which I can best

learn to trust Him? Elisabeth Elliot

Happy Tuesday!

May His peace be yours today,

new beginnings

2010-10-09T22:21:00.001-05:00

October ushers in our fall season and a few new changes.

We say good-bye to the garden.

Just a handful of carrots and lots of potatoes left to be pulled.

And a few red peppers which, as I found out this afternoon, are of the VERY HOT variety!!

(Quick, grab the milk, my mouth is burning!!)

Pumpkins!

I must show you this picture taken at the beginning of August. . .

This is one of SEVERAL buckets of basil which fragrantly descended onto my kitchen

counter the last few months. Mr. E. loves pesto so we froze the leaves of basil

and I simply take them out of the bag, wash them, place them in the food processor

and add a handful of walnuts, a few cloves of garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil. . .

and waalaa!! fresh pesto is ready to add to cooked pasta. Yum!!

Little A is such a hoot! She had to find her "glubs" (gloves), just like daddy, before

she could go "work" outside.

A new calendar decorates the wall in our dining/school room.

I ordered this from rainbowresource.com. A wonderful home school website with

endless resources at very reasonable prices.

The highlight of the past week was our New Beginnings banquet

for our new local pregnancy resource center.

I was part of the banquet committee and truly felt blessed to witness

God's hand in orchestrating such a powerful and exciting evening.

Beautiful flowers, food, and delectable dessert favors graced the tables.

The highlight was hearing personal testimony's from several women who had

been led to seek out a pregnancy center during a time of crisis in their lives. The

centers serve as so much more than helping both women and men through their

immediate time of crisis. Many years later, these women are still involved by coming

alongside other women and being a part of the center bible studies. Many people

in our community will be blessed, in ways that God only knows, by the start of this

new pregnancy resource center in our area.

Happy Saturday!

96 years young

2010-10-01T20:08:00.001-05:00

We have a neighbor.

His name is Frank and he’s amazing.

Yesterday Frank had a birthday.

He was born 96 years ago!

He is a WWII veteran; still lives in his own home; he mends his clothes with his

sewing machine; he installed new cabinets in his kitchen; he

shovels snow from his roof in the winter; he makes a deliberate

effort to get exercise every day. . .It is not surprising to

see Frank in the woods chopping wood.

We decided to make Frank a card and bring

some chili, bread, and jam and wish

him a happy birthday.

We knocked on the front door a few times and began to

wonder if he was home.

I decided to check the back yard.

And that is where we found him. . .reading the owner’s manual

in the front seat of his new Ford sedan!

“All I need to know is how to open the

door, open the trunk, and start the car. . .none of the other fancy

stuff they have in cars nowadays!”

He was disappointed that his sister and brother were unable to

come for his birthday due to an unexpected illness in the family.

I’m glad we stopped.

God bless you, Frank.

As we continued about our day I couldn’t help but take my camera along

and shoot the beautiful scenery along our mid-west roads.

Happy fall Friday and 1st day of October!

Heather

crafts, cream & color

2010-09-29T20:11:00.001-05:00

I had just been thinking. . .

It would be fun to get together with friends and do crafts together.

God blessed me today with a friend who stopped by with

water colors, brushes, and a fun craft idea for the kids!

Little did she know it would be ME to jump at the painting project first!

The kids gathered leaves, we traced them onto water color paper and then

used the water color pencils and paints to re-create the leaf.

I think I was the one who had the most fun!

After the boys had completed their Nerf gun war,

they too enjoyed making their own unique leaf creations!

A few feared failure. . .but "you cannot fail", "there is no wrong way"; We

tried to encouraged them.

And while some were painting, others were rolling.

Rolling?

Yes, rolling the ball to make home made ice cream.

Have you seen this?

It would be a great Christmas gift.

( I know. . .Christmas presents. . .scary thought, right?)

The Play-Freeze-Cream-Maker is $30 at Amazon.com and makes one quart.

The kids have fun rolling it ( NOT throwing it; we learned the hard way!)

around the yard for thirty minutes and then. . .

D E L I C I O U S home made ice cream!

We are at the peek of our beautiful fall season. The colors glow in the sunshine.

Little A has made it clear that she is her own stylist. At 3 years old, she holds

distinct opinions on what she wears each day. (I think I had it comin', huh Mom?)

Today, she chose a vest which was made for me as a child.

And after the TWO hair cuts she has given herself, I have to wonder. . .

Will she one day be a hairstylist like her Great-Grandma?

Thank you Lord for beautiful, sunshiny, fall days and unexpected blessings you send our way.

Happy Wednesday!

simply grand reading

2010-09-18T16:37:00.001-05:00

Have you ever been disappointed when you turn the last page of a book?

Such was the case with me last night.

Thankfully, there are many more in this series and my sister, Cathy, kindly

said she'd send the next one my way.

The name of the book, already, you ask?!

The Yada Yada Prayer Group

There are eight in the series.

Here's the synopsis of book #1:

What do an ex-con, a former drug addict, a real estate broker, a college student, and a married mother of two have in common? Nothing, or so I thought. Who would have imagined that God would make a prayer group as mismatched as ours the closest of friends? I almost didn't even go the Chicago Women's Conference--after all, being thrown together with five hundred strangers wasn't exactly my "comfort zone." But something happened that weekend to make us realize we had to hang together, and the "Yada Yada Prayer Group" was born! When I faced the biggest crisis of my life, God used my newfound Sisters to show me what it means to be just a sinner saved by grace.

I loved this book because it inspired me to live my faith "out loud", daily, in the relationships God places along my path.

It also exemplifies the verse. . ."Rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn."

The author is Neta Jackson.

She and her husband Dave, live in Chicago and have

also written the popular Trailblazer Series

and the Hero Tales series which we've enjoyed during our

morning home school "table time".

Books can be dangerous. The best ones should be labeled "This could change your life." ~Helen Exley

My handsome H-man celebrated his ninth birthday, recently.

So I asked him what his favorite book has been?

Without hesitation, he said The Boxcar Children.

The author is Gertrude Chandler Warner.

There are 150 mystery books in the series.

It is definitely a favorite around here.

Especially when Oma reads out loud. . .sometimes an entire book in one sitting.

Happy Saturday and Happy Reading!

fall thanks

2010-09-12T22:01:00.001-05:00

Count your blessings.

Be thankful.

In all things, give thanks.

I want to begin this week of our very full family fall routine,

with a heart of thankfulness.

To God be the Glory, Great things He hath done. . .

I'm remembering the awesome worship time at church today.

Harvesting fresh vegetables from our garden is a daily blessing.

A safe and secure home for my family.

New friends and old friends. . .God blesses me with special relationships.

Knowing my eternal future is secure!

For His angels who surround me.

Unlimited choices and freedoms living in America provides.

Loving family who are there to help, to pray, to laugh, to love, and to encourage.

Sunday Blessings,

Tomato Time

2010-09-05T14:59:00.001-05:00

The time has come.

Tomato time that is.

Tomatoes arriving on my counter.

Daily.

By the dozens.

So far, I've made a big pot of spaghetti sauce, and delicious salsa.

Tomorrow it will be chili.

My question is whether we will eat them as fast as they come.

So far the above is true. But I would still love to learn to "can" this year.

I've been enjoying the cherry tomatoes. . . Just pop 'em in my mouth for a snack.

Then I got to thinking. . . Is the tomato a vegetable or a fruit?

This is what I found. . .

To really figure out if a tomato is a fruit or vegetable, you need to know what makes a fruit a fruit, and a vegetable a vegetable. The big question to ask is, DOES IT HAVE SEEDS? If the answer is yes, then technically, (botanically) you have a FRUIT. This, of course, makes your tomato a fruit. It also makes cucumbers, squash, green beans and walnuts all fruits as well. Along with the fruit from from a plant or tree, we can often eat the leaves (lettuce,) stems (celery,) roots (carrots,) and flowers (broccoli.) Many of these other parts of the plant are typically referred to as VEGETABLES. Now don't go looking for tomatoes next to the oranges in your grocery stores; fruits like tomatoes and green beans are usually (alas, incorrectly) referred to as "vegetables" in most grocery stores and cookbooks.

So now I know.

And you know too.

Although, maybe you already knew what I did not know.

Ok, I'll stop.

Look what else I found. . . 5 Lessons from the garden about fruit bearing:

1. Fruit needs water in order to reach it’s fullest potential

You can probably ask your five-year old how to take care of a plant and they will tell you that it needs water to survive. And if you have ever kept a garden, you have surely realized that if only water it once a week during the summer months your harvest is going to be much smaller. On the other hand, if your plants are receiving frequent and consistent watering, the plants are going to be stronger and the fruit is going to be better.

Psalm 1:3 (NIV) - He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.

2. Good soil is very important

The soil contains a lot of the nutrients that cause the growth of the plants. There are tremendous differences between good soil and bad soil. This was one of the reasons I said that good potting soil was one of my 10 things worth spending more on. We need to be spiritually receptive to allow the seeds of God’s word to grow and develop the way they should.

Matthew 13:23 (NIV) - The one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.

3. Death brings life

John 12:24 (NIV) – I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.

We must die to ourselves and our own desires and submit to God’s plan. In doing so, like the above verse states, we will bear much fruit.

4. Pruning produces more fruit

I am by no means an expert gardener, but I have found this one to be true. It doesn’t make sense while you are doing it, but the results prove its effectiveness. God is an expert gardener and He knows which areas of our lives can be pruned to make us more effective. It does hurt, but the end result is beautiful.

John 15:2 (NIV) – He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.

5. A branch can’t bear fruit separated from the plant

That is a no-brainer right? Well, I don’t know about you, but I have caught myself trying to do that in my own life. I will find myself trying to accomplish things in my own strength rather than “abiding in Him.” All the fruit that we will bear in our lives will be a result of us being connected to our source: God. Just like a severed branch can bear no fruit, neither can we bear any fruit if we are not abiding in Him.

John 15:5 (NIV) – I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

Blessed Sunday,

Look, there they are!

2010-09-04T15:24:00.001-05:00

Labor Day weekend around here means lots of traffic.

But not if you're traveling in the sky!

Longtime friends came by plane to visit.

We kept checkin' the skies and listening to the radio.

First, we heard them. . ."3 miles out".

A few moments later, "Look, there they are!"

We watched them make a smooth landing on this very windy day.

Papa has had a dream of owning his own plane.

His hanger worked perfectly for storing the plane for the weekend.

Bob and Judy are special friends of our family.

My mom grew up with Judy.

In fact she doesn't remember life without her special friend.

They each grew up in Illinois, married their husbands, and ended up in Southern California to raise their families.

We spent many holidays together with them and their children, Bryan and Kym.

Judy is the "original" Oma (German for grandmother). Judy became a grandma first and her grandkids called her Oma from the beginning. My mom always noted what a very special relationship Judy had with her grandchildren.

When my mom became a grandma for the first time, almost thirteen years ago, she decided to be called Oma too.

So that's my story for today.

Special friends.

Special Omas.

Happy Saturday!

Schooltime!

2010-09-03T20:21:00.001-05:00

This week we ~~welcomed~~ began a new home school ~~year~~ journey at Simply Grand Faith Academy.

(I've read that you should name your home school. Not sure about Simply Grand but it seems to go with the theme; the blog. . . Simply Grand Central; the cattery. . . Simply Grand Bengal Cattery)

ANYWAY, the students weren't as excited as I'd hoped but Mr. E. said my expectations were a bit too high.

We've started slowly and I've found a few holes in my curriculum ordering but I must say that it feels good to be back into the routine. AND I can tell the kids are a year older and maybe (shhh) able to work a bit more independently.

This seems to be my goal since there's only one of me around here.

I could use another me. A tutor, a cook, a housekeeper, a. . .

Truth be known, God takes good care of me. I have the best family, friends and neighbors AND six kids who I'm teaching to tackle more of mom's tasks!

Since my usual question to any home school mom seems to be, "What curriculum do you use?" I thought I'd share what books we'll be opening throughout the year.

Math: ABEKA(1st, 3rd & 7th) and Teaching Textbooks(5th)

Language: ABEKA(all)

Bible: Alpha Omega Lifepac(5th and 7th)

Science: ABEKA(1st, 3rd, 5th) and Apologia General Science (7th grader)

History: ABEKA(all)

Vocabulary: Wordly Wise (3rd, 5th & 7th)

Spelling: Building Spelling Skills by Christian Liberty Press (3rd, 5th, 7th)

Geography: ABEKA (all)

Reading Comprehension: ABEKA (all)

General Reading: Sonlight (all)

7th grade Composition: Write-At-Home (online assignments and writing coach)

7th grade Latin: Z-man is on a wait-list at Veritas Press Academy for their online class.

It's always a bit "rocky" getting settled into the school year.

We're looking forward to the long weekend.

Plans for boat and water fun may be on hold as the weather has turned windy and quite chilly on us.

We see signs of fall as the first few leaves begin turning beautiful autumn hues.

Happy Labor Day weekend!

Hanna's Sneak Peek

2010-08-26T15:15:00.001-05:00

More photography fun!

This time with Hanna. . . a blue-eyed brunette entering her senior year in high school.

Hanna wanted some indoor shots.

This means my bedroom with the bright morning sun.

Little A was looking on . . . and as the sun kept rising I needed Hanna to move closer to the window.

Eventually, we opened up the windows and I headed outside.

I shot on the left side of the window while Little A played on the right side.

The natural light is so. . .naturally pretty.

Just like Hanna.

Hanna, may you look to the light of the Lord as you seek His direction in the exciting years ahead.

Happy Thursday!

Will's Sneak Peek

2010-08-18T16:28:00.001-05:00

A dashing young high school graduate.

A dear family friend.

A college-bound, math major.

An avid Brewer fan.

A sibling to eight.

An uncle to three.

A soldier for Christ.

Will. . . "May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26.

Happy Wednesday,

P.S. If you ever question that math major. . .

I think you'd make a convincing secret service agent! :)

the hammock

2010-08-13T22:28:00.001-05:00

My family jokes about the fact that Papa (my dad) is such a saver that there are still items with the moving sticker on them from 1972 when the family moved from Illinois to California. But every once in awhile we hit the jack pot and are glad that he kept something that we would like to use. Oma (my mom) thinks these occurrences are unfortunate since they perpetuate Papa's desire to SAVE every. single. thing.

Not long ago Z-man noticed a hammock down in Papa's storage room. Perfect for our backyard! Indeed it has been the entertainment of the summer for the kids. I always plan on more hammock time with a book in hand but it hasn't happened as much as I'd like.

Yesterday, while taking pictures of Jaci, the hammock turned out to be my favorite backdrop.

So, thanks for saving the hammock, Papa. . .It's been fun for the kids, and a great photo prop too!

Happy Friday!

P.S. You know it's been a long week when it's 3:00 in the afternoon and you notice you've been wearing your shirt inside out! Yep, that was me!

Jaci's Sneak Peek

2010-08-12T21:12:00.001-05:00

Amidst a week with too many commitments it was so refreshing to tap into my love of photography this morning.

Jaci will be a senior this fall (how can it be so?) and asked if I'd take a few indoor pictures for her.

After attaching a black sheet to the ceiling of my bedroom, having her look toward the light coming in the window, and fiddling with my camera settings, I captured a few sweet (no flash) shots of this blonde-haired, blue-eyed beauty. . .

The kids had her giggling as they were strategically placing blowing fans toward her face . . .I was trying to accomplish the wind-blown hair look.

And since I had a willing subject, we ventured outside to the awesome natural light. . .

Jaci has a heart for God and a very bright future ahead of her.

God bless you, Jaci!

Happy Thursday!

Face Painting

2010-07-30T22:28:00.001-05:00

While the older boys were at camp recently, the rest of the cousin crew spent hours having fun with face painting! I love this kit by Klutz. You can check it out at Amazon.com

The fun part for the kids is looking through the 50 pages and choosing which “face” they’d like. The paint is water based and comes off the skin easily. It’s a great gift idea for kids ages 6-10+.

The cousin crew left this afternoon.

We had a great visit and many memory making moments.

Not even strep throat kept this crew from having a good time!

Between all nine kids there is usually one needing medical attention during each visit . . . remembering the broken arm, ear infections, stomach flu and many a skinned knee. (Thanks Cathy, for the extra box of band-aids!)

Now it’s back to reality and the thought of getting ready for a garage sale and organizing curriculum for the beginning of a new school year which is just around the corner.

Yikes!

Happy last day in July!

Heather

summertime fun

2010-07-28T20:49:00.001-05:00

Our summertime activities have continued.

My sister and family have been visiting from Michigan and the kids have kept us quite busy as usual.

Altogether we had nine kids in ten years and it's been quite the adventure.

We keep reminiscing about the days of diaper changes, two naps, strict meal times and early bed times.

We are excited to announce we are diaper and "sipee-cup" free!

The past week we've been. . .

canoeing,

swimming,

kayaking,

go-carting,

fishing

::deep breath::

miniature golfing,

pontoon(ing),

tubing,

and

sleeping real well each night!

Today was miniature golfing. . .

The weather has been beautiful.

More pictures of our fun weeks together to follow.

In other news. . .

Miss Rachael made THE BEST Guacamole Dip this evening.

Here's her recipe. . .

1. Smash your ripe avocados

2. Add chopped onion

3. Add chopped cilantro

4. Add chopped tomato

5. Add minced garlic

6. Add a few squirts of lime juice

Stir all together and enjoy with your favorite tortilla chips!

Thanks Rachael!

Oh, and one other tidbit. . .there may be an upcoming "bun in the oven" (or two, or three) around here.

For Lucy the cat, that is.

We'll keep you posted!

Happy Wednesday!

blueberry blast

2010-07-14T22:29:00.001-05:00

Our vacation activities last week in Holland, Michigan included our traditional morning of blueberry picking (and eating).

All in all. . . 72 pounds of blueberries were picked in 2 hours. . . We’re getting more productive and efficient as the years go by!

No stroller in the blueberry patch this year. . . .Little A joined the pickin’ crew!

I think her philosophy was pick two, eat one. . . then another.

This week we’ve eaten our fair share of blueberries as you can imagine.

We keep them on the counter and we all take handfuls throughout the day.

We’ve enjoyed blueberry pancakes and cobbler too.

The blueberry cobbler was delicious!

You can check out the recipe at AllRecipes.com

I had wanted to make a pie, but the fresh berries disappeared too fast and I needed to freeze a few boxes to enjoy throughout the winter.

Hope you’re enjoying some summertime traditions too!

Happy Wednesday!

Heather

I Do

2010-07-13T22:32:00.001-05:00

I do. . .love this summertime season and break from our daily home school responsibilities.

I do. . .love family vacations and the freedom from my daily mealtime duties.

I do. . .love watching my kids play in the sunshine and water.

I do. . .love fans & air conditioning (especially since these hot flashes have descended upon me!)

I do. . .love eating freshly picked blueberries! (72 pounds we picked last week!)

I do. . .love relaxing in the hammock in the backyard.

I do. . .love looking at the freshly cut flowers my neighbor graciously gave us.

I do. . .love having my sister and kids visiting this month.

I do. . .love the garden my husband has once again planted (and the 50 tomato plants!).

I do. . .(hope) I love to can jars of tomatoes!

I do. . .love traditional family time and fun at “the cottage” in Holland, Michigan.

I do. . .love a beautiful summer wedding.

On July 4th we watched my husband’s cousin, Marva, say “I do” in a lovely outdoor ceremony. Everything from the wedding party,the reception “mansion”, to the flowers. . . was Beautiful!

Congratulations John and Marva!

We know you are having a grand time honeymooning in Thailand!

May God bless you with a long and happy life together as husband and wife.

Happy Tuesday in July,

Heather

celebrating with sushi

2010-06-17T11:22:00.001-05:00

June 16, 1989. . .21 years ago

Canoga Park, California

We walked down the aisle and said I do. . .for better or worse, in sickness and health, till death do us part.

And here we are, 21 years later.

Oh yes, there have been many changes!

Despite the obvious ones in hair color and weight (yikes!). . . we've been blessed with our growing love for one another, six beautiful, healthy kids, and thankfully more health than sickness.

We celebrated by heading to a sushi restaurant in town.

It was a first for us, and we had such fun trying new food.

We were cautious on our first visit and opted for the cooked variety.

Deeeelicious! We'll definitely being going back again.

And we ended our get-away evening with a little somethin' sweet. Yum!

I love lovin' this guy. . .for better or worse, in sickness and health, til' death do us part.

Here's to 21+ more years for us, honey!

Always,

weekend surprise

2010-06-13T21:49:00.001-05:00

What a fun surprise to receive a call from my dear friend Jenny on Friday!

Jenny and I have been friends since 2nd grade where we met at our school in Tarzana, California.

We keep in touch several times a year; recently more often as she's been facing some medical trials.

I knew she was in a neighboring state last week going through a battery of medical tests and I was awaiting an e-mail as to the results. It was a double celebration as she called to report the good news on the test results and that the possible surgery on Monday had been cancelled. . . AND that she was on her way to come visit me!

I had met her three boys in 2008 on a trip with my sister to visit her.

It was wonderful to have her in our home and meet our children.

They each loved meeting Miss Jenny and playing air hockey with her. . . one of her favorite games!

We had a great two days talking about life, love, marriage, kids, family and praying for God's sovereign hand throughout life's challenging times.

We also watched The Blind Side with Sandra Bullock. What a great movie!

She graciously cooperated with her picture-taking friend.

She's a fun-loving brunette beauty. Always has been, always will be.

Love you, Jenny!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-06-08T23:32:00.001-05:00

For today, Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Outside my window.....The skies are dark and the air is a cool 50 degrees at 10:30pm.

I am thinking....how I've missed picture taking and blogging since my busy family schedule has taken me out of the house and into the car more these days.

I am thankful.....for special times the kids are able to have with their grandparents.

I am wearing.....black shorts, aqua colored t-shirt and a black cardigan sweater.

I am hearing.....nothing but the hum of the computer since all the kids are in bed. Ahhhhh, I love the quiet.

I am creating.....lists of curriculum and school supplies for next fall.

I am going.....to miss our first born as he leaves on a road trip to the East coast with his grandparents this weekend.

I am still reading.....Johnny Tremain to the kids in the morning.

I am praying.....for healing for our brother-in-law's father.

I am remembering.....the laughter of the kids as they watched Tim Hawkins videos on YouTube.

I am hoping.....for some sunshine tomorrow.

On my mind.....sibling relationships and how God wants me to act and react to this family challenge.

Noticing that....The recent rain we've had makes the landscape so wonderfully green!

Pondering these words.....I love the Lord because he hears my prayers and answers them. Because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I breathe! Psalm 116:1-2 TLB

From the kitchen.....I tried a Chicken Florentine Style recipe from Giada De Laurentiis of the Food Network Channel yesterday and it was so tasty. . . even the kids liked it!

Around the house....I've been tackling projects which have created piles of clothes for our garage sale we are hoping to have in August.

One of my favorite things.....my morning quiet time of prayer, bible reading and simply "getting inside my own head".

A few plans for the rest of the week.....packing Z-man for his trip, pot luck for our homeschool group, getting the boat put into the water, and a dentist appointment.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you....

The new Corelle plates I ordered. Have I mentioned that I love dishes and tableware?!

Thank you for stopping and visiting my daybook. If you'd like to visit others who are participating or write a journal yourself, please stop over at Peggy's at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Happy Tuesday!

Serving

2010-05-31T15:15:00.001-05:00

Thinking of those who served our country and gave the ultimate sacrifice, their life, for the freedoms with which we are now blessed in the United States of America.

As I was reading about the history of Memorial Day I learned this. . .

To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."

I then glanced at the clock and it was 3:00pm. I was glad to join others in our country for a moment of prayer.

Thinking of those currently serving our country so we may continue to hold the freedoms we are so blessed with in the United States of America.

Thinking of our responsibility as believers to look for ways to serve others. . . our family, our church, our community, our friends. . . so that the love of Christ may be seen through our service.

Remembering a special dinner recently where the boys were asked to be waiters and serve tables. It was a fun evening and a bit of a leap out of their comfort zone.

(Mom said it was a good experience for them. . . and they had a great time!)

I hope we will impress upon our kids the joy of living "outside themselves".

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV)

Happy Memorial Day Monday,

Angels in a Mustang

2010-05-21T13:19:00.001-05:00

They stop on by with a gift in hand,

Linda's famous chicken noodle soup-

the BEST in all the land!

Ed and Linda bless many with God's love and care,

and they are prayer warriors from the heart;

Friends like this are rare.

Can you believe, these two are grandparents great?

I hope I'm this hip at 70 and sittin' next to my mate!

Thanks for blessing Mr. E. with his favorite birthday meal, Linda!

You're our angels in a Mustang!

It's number 46 for my handsome husband today. . .

I'm thankful for him and our special family.

He's a cat lovin', deer huntin', trap line runnin', fish reelin', fun lovin', husband o' mine!

Happy Friday!

The eyes have it

2010-05-19T17:19:00.001-05:00

The weather has been beautiful around here.

Not too hot.

Not too cold.

No bugs.

Blue skies and sunshine.

Perfect for taking a few family photos for our friends.

The kids (and Daddy :), have just a wee bit of patience for the camera.

Especially when these are awaiting. . .

Don't kids just love marshmallows?! Every last sticky bite.

This beautiful blue eyed family of five added their latest miracle just a few months ago.

After months of bed rest and concern for baby M, God's plan was perfect and they are now blessed to smother this new healthy baby boy with love.

And every time a new little addition joins their family?

A puppy does too! It's a family tradition.

So yes, that makes three kids and three Labs!

And those eyes! A photographer's dream.

This verse came to mind as I was taken with such beautiful eyes. . .

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:2-3 (NIV)

Happy Wednesday,

little things

2010-05-15T22:17:00.001-05:00

It was a little thing but a definite blessing. . .

Daddy was out of town a few weeks ago.

Out of town for 4 nights in a row.

Which leaves momma bear a bit weary.

Grandpa and Grandma's phone call to say that they'd be in town and taking us out to dinner was a welcome surprise.

No cooking or overseeing clean-up tonight. Yipeee!

I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.
Laura Ingalls Wilder

May I always remember the sweet little things in my days and whisper a "Thank you, Lord" from my heart.

And the ice cream flavor of the day?. . . Turtle! Very yummy!

Happy Saturday,

Pepperoni Pizza Puffs

2010-05-12T13:24:00.001-05:00

It's lunch time once again.

Meals are sooo. . . daily. You know?

I recently found this recipe in a Rachael Ray magazine and thought

it would be a perfect lunchtime option.

So I tried it and. . . .

the kids loved 'em!

Thumbs up all around!

Here's the recipe which serves 4. I doubled it.

Pepperoni Pizza Puffs

3/4 C flour

3/4 tsp baking powder

3/4 C milk

1 egg

4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese

4 oz pepperoni, cut into small cubes ( I did not double this)

1/2 C pizza sauce

2 T finely chopped fresh basil

1. Preheat the oven to 375, Grease a 24-cup mini-muffin pan or 12 regular muffin pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder; whisk in the milk and egg. Stir in the mozzarella and pepperoni; let stand for 10 minutes.

2. Stir the batter and divide among the mini-muffin cups. Bake until puffed and golden, 20-25 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, heat the pizza sauce, then stir in 1 T basil. Sprinkle the puffs with the remaining 1 T of basil. Serve the puffs with pizza sauce for dipping.

Enjoy!

Happy Wednesday,

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-05-10T18:52:00.001-05:00

Monday, May 10, 2010

Outside my window.....the skies are cloudy this afternoon but the weekend snow has thankfully disappeared.

I am thinking....about making dinner. (eggs with broccoli and cheese tonight)

I am thankful.....for safe travels this past weekend. Especially after passing a family van which had caught on fire.

I am wearing.....a white t-shirt and black sport pants from my afternoon walk.

I am hearing....Little A letting me know she'll wash her hands, "Me do it myself."

I am creating.....bridal shower invitations.

I am going......for a walk with Mr. E tonight after dinner.

I am reading.....the latest REAL SIMPLE magazine which my mom gave me for Mothers Day. Thanks, Mom!
I am praying.....for curriculum decisions which need to be made for next year.

I am remembering.....a beautiful complete rainbow we had the fun of seeing last week.

I am hoping.....to get some sort of device to listen to music as I walk which will possibly spur me on to walk faster?!

On my mind.....how to better organize and store our pictures and videos.

From the learning rooms....glad we'll be finishing up throughout the next four weeks.

Noticing that. . . the deck railings need staining this summer.

Pondering these words....."Let us know, let us press on to know the Lord; his appearing is as sure as the dawn; he will come to us like the showers, like the spring rains that water the earth." Hosea 6:3 NRSV

From the kitchen.....I need to clean out the refrigerator this week!

Around the house....are a few bags which still need to be unpacked from our weekend travels.

One of my favorite things.....is coming home to a clean house. (not that it was my reality but it is a favorite thing of mine)

A few plans for the rest of the week.....running kids here and there, a church meeting and a wedding on Saturday.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you....

Mr. E and I were glad to wish our moms a Happy Mother's Day! in person on Sunday.

Thank you for stopping and visiting my daybook. If you'd like to visit others who are participating or write a journal yourself, please stop over at Peggy's at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Happy Monday in May,

Simply Grand Game

2010-05-03T16:56:00.001-05:00

It's a cloudy, cool, spring, Monday.

A good day to grab one of the educational games I had purchased for a day like today.

All the boys had a great time playing Presto Change-O.

The 2-4 players learn how to make change, save money and spend it wisely. Players travel around a game board filled with everyday financial decisions as they earn money, sell lemonade, spend money at the museum or movies, and much more. The first player to save $10.00 wins! For 2-4 players. Ages 8 and up.

It seems we spend all of our school time trying to cover the basics but it's fun to "change it up" a bit and add an educational game every once and awhile.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart (Hebrews 12:1-3, NIV).

I'm trying to not grow weary as we finish up our last month of school.

We're beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Let's finish strong boys!

Happy Monday!

pretty things

2010-04-29T16:20:00.001-05:00

Pretty things around my home make me happy.

Yesterday God provided an opportunity for me to offer a "happy birthday!" to a friend and these pretty things made me smile.

I love the opportunity to get out my pretty tea cups.

My mom gave my sister and me a different matching cup and saucer, every Christmas, for 12 years in a row.

Another favorite pretty thing is in my bedroom. I love to walk by and see my bed made with the pretty pillows on top.

I'm inspired to make my bed in the morning because this is what I look at during my quiet time before starting school. . .

The smaller pillow in the middle was my favorite find and an inspiration for the curtains which my mom kindly and painstakingly made for us last summer.

But there are a few practical items lying or hanging around the house.

Such as these. . .

One is in the family room,

and one is even in the bedroom. . .

Can you guess?

They are not streamers!

Can you say FLY TRAP?

Yes, if you stop for a visit watch your head or it may become permanently affixed to the hanging fly trap paper strategically placed throughout our home due to the unusual invasion of a vast amount of flies outside which find their way INside and have been driving. me. crazy.!

Spring around here has been welcomed with open arms but the flies. . . not so much!

Happy Thursday!

lookin' for the light

2010-04-23T22:51:00.001-05:00

So it's Friday, late afternoon.

Mr. E. and Z-man are away turkey hunting.

What to do. What to do.

After staring at each other for awhile, C-man lamenting his boredom, and others throwing out their ideas, momma bear makes a few decisions. . .

We're not going swimming, we're heading to the library, then to the park, then for ice cream and. . . I'm bringing the camera cause I'm looking for the light.

Anyone want to throw on a "nice" shirt and model for me?

Pleeeeease?

C-man, with his sensitive heart and knowing how much mom loves taking pictures, acquiesces while informing me how much he really doesn't feel like it.

And we're off. . .

While at the library we get a call from Daddy on the cell phone announcing that both he and Z-man each shot a turkey today. WOW! We're all stunned since such luck rarely befriends us and give a hip-hip-hooray!!

. . . The weather is perfect for fun at the park.

It's dusk and I read from many photographers that this is a grand time of day to find the glorious light. I'm still trying to figure this all out so I was happy to have a few moments of practice.

The sun was behind me. I was trying to be careful of shadows on the face.

The sun is not as intense as in the middle of the day so the shadows I was dealing with were a bit more forgiving.

. . . Back in the car and the next stop is 49 cent cones from McDonalds.

C-man requests an Oreo McFlurry since he has been such an accommodating model.

Momma bear acquiesces this time while the others suddenly become interested models.

Sorry boys, only c-man.

. . . I decide to take the long way home as I continue lookin' for the light.

Then I found it!

"C-man please, quick, drop the McFlurry, out of the car!"

I didn't touch up those rosy red lips one little bit.

All natural.

Lucky kid.

What a handsome dude!

It was exciting for me to find these backdrops because they are so different than the typical woodsy landscape I find around our home.

Plus, they are facing west which was perfect for this time of day.

I know the lighting is good when I need to do very little in post editing.

Unless of course I want to, as in the last two edits.

. . .Alas, we find ourselves back at home and it's time to pick up the yard.

. . . Pizza and popcorn for dinner since momma is trying to please everyone tonight.

Oh. . . and in case you ever wonder if it's ok to leave the cardboard under the frozen pizza while you bake it. . . .it's perfectly fine. ;)

. . . An episode of Bonanza follows and then lights out boys and girl.

Happy Friday,

P.S. The title for this post reminded me of this verse. . .

If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. (NASB)
1 John 1:6-7

Monday happenings

2010-04-19T18:33:00.001-05:00

After a busier than normal weekend, Monday came fast.

I wasn't completely ready for the week to begin.

But ready or not here we go!

Noontime brought a walk/bike down to the lake.

The boys love to skip stones.

Little A jumps into all the action with her brothers.

She must have felt right at home as she wanted her clothes off.

Her brothers reprimanded me for complying because "we could get arrested!"

All went well and no arrests were made.

We enjoyed this book about Galileo during table time today.

Today in history. . . John J. McDermott of New York won the first Boston Marathon with a time of 2:55:10. Fifteen runners started the race but only 10 made it to the finish line.

The marathon's distance was changed in 1908 in accordance with Olympic standards to its current length of 26 miles 385 yards.

The Boston Marathon was originally held on Patriot's Day, April 19, a regional holiday that commemorates the beginning of the Revolutionary War. In years when the 19th fell on a Sunday, the race was held the following Monday. In 1969, Patriots Day was officially moved to the third Monday in April and the race has been held on that Monday ever since.

Although I'll never be ready to tackle a marathon, I would like to walk in a 5K sometime.

My car made an automatic stop at the McDonalds drive thru on the way to the library. "Seven 49cent cones, please."

Chicken noodle soup is simmering for dinner. Yum!

Here's hoping I'm ready to tackle Tuesday with a bit more energy.

Happy Monday!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-04-14T17:29:00.001-05:00

For today April 14

Outside my window..... the sun is shining and it's 70 degrees outside!

I am thinking.... of creating a more organized weekly meal planning schedule. (Hopefully the thinking will turn into doing)

I am thankful.... for this early spring we are experiencing. It's really been a treat!

I am wearing...... my black sport pants and a tank top. I started the day out with a long sleeve top and a fleece vest and then it warmed up and I was way overdressed.

I am hearing......my 6 year old working on a puzzle behind me and the jingling of Lucy cat's collar.

I am creating.....a mental list of projects I'd like to accomplish this summer.

I am going.....to give all the boys haircuts. And Z-man wants a mohawk for his basketball game tomorrow night.

I am reading.....the latest issue of EVERY DAY with Rachel Ray magazine.

I am praying.....for courage and strength for a friend going through a difficult time.

I am remembering.....today in history, 1865, President Lincoln was shot in Ford's Theater by John Wilkes Booth. (I just read that)

I am hoping.....with all the time the boys are spending in the woods, that our "tick checks" each night are enough to keep those nasty critters from doing any harm.

On my mind.....what sports the boys will and will not be involved in next year.

From the learning rooms....picked up about 30 new books from the library today. I love new books in the house.

Noticing that....the daffodils have broken through.

Pondering these words. . . "What you are becoming is more important than what you are accomplishing."

From the kitchen.....beef stew tonight, slow cooking in the oven since noon.

Around the house....spring has sprung so I guess I should be spring cleaning, huh? It's a good thought. :)

One of my favorite things.....watching the three older boys play in the basketball league together, on the same team.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....home school sports club, basketball game, helping with soccer registration, yard cleaning-blowing-raking.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you. . .

So the thought would be. . . "What kind of parent allows this sort of nonsense?!"

I guess that kind of parent would be, ME!

Momma says, "Only for the next 24 hours."

Z-man says, "DEAL!"

Thank you for stopping and visiting my daybook. If you'd like to visit others who are participating or write a journal yourself, please stop over at Peggy's at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Happy Wednesday!

procrastination

2010-04-09T13:45:00.001-05:00

I have a small creative task which needs to be completed by tomorrow.

I'm procrastinating.

Notice the new blog header?

That's what I've had fun doing while putting off what I SHOULD be doing.

I guess I better heed this advice. . .

The best way to get something done is to begin. ~Author Unknown

I hope you are having a more energized and motivated day than I am.

Happy Friday,

Highs and lows

2010-04-07T15:29:00.001-05:00

I had a few moments in the car today as I made a run to the library.

I enjoyed listening to Anita Lustrea from Midday Connection on our Christian radio station.

Today she had people sharing about their highs and lows for the day. . .

"It’s Open Forum on Midday Connection and we’re going to take a look at a spiritual practice called The Examen. We want you to answer this question: "What’s the high point and low point of your day?" What has been the most life giving or life draining moment so far in your day? If we pay attention, this is often where we see the work of God."

It was interesting to hear how in a given day we all have something that brings a smile to our faces. . . and at the same time we have something going on in life which causes a more negative emotion.

Anita had a great suggestion. She has been journaling with her son every night for the last few years on both her high and low for the day and his high and low for the day.

Wouldn't that be fun to look back upon?

To fondly remember the highs and see how God's hand has brought you through the lows.

How 'bout today?

Hmmm. . . My highs would be the sunshine outside and the quiet alone time I was able to have today.

Lows? Two of the boys have mysterious bug bites which left the Dr. wondering and mommy trying not to panic. Fleas? Bed bugs? Ticks? Yikes! Suddenly I'm starting to itch all over!

Happy Wednesday!

Heather

He has risen!

2010-04-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

Remembering an event which placed my beloved in CICU four years ago.

On Easter Sunday he awakened from the drug induced coma.

We will always remember and always be thankful for God's healing and the prayers of many.

Happy Easter! He has risen indeed!

Heather

Fire Drill!

2010-04-03T09:38:00.001-05:00

Homeschooling, as with everything in life, has its pros and cons.

This homeschool lifestyle is working well for our family in many ways.

One sacrifice which I weekly must come to peace with is that the house is simply not going to be the picture of neat and clean. And the entire house is never clutter-free and clean all at the same time.

That's just the way it is.

Also, I need everyone's help to keep the home in order.

So this morning before everyone left for their activities I had the family gather for a fire drill.

Fire drill? It's when we set the timer for 20 minutes, or even 10 minutes, and I give everyone a simple chore. Yes, daddy and I help too and we check that the kids chores were done correctly.

The saying is so true. . . Many hands make light work.

In 20 minutes many chores were completed: vacuuming, clothes folded, mud room picked up, garbage out, floors mopped, bedrooms picked up.

It was a great way to start the day.

How about a fire drill at your home today?

Ready. . .Set. . . GO!!

Happy Saturday,

Heather

Welcome April!

2010-04-01T21:17:00.001-05:00

Not only are we welcoming a new month today but we're a bit giddy over these 70 degree temperatures.

This is unheard of in our neck of the woods.

I can remember ice fishermen still on the lakes on Mother's Day one year!

Little A has discovered the sandbox!

She spent hours out there today.

This sandbox time is serious business.

I think I was able to have her look up at me for an obligatory smile, twice.

It was especially fun for me to see her brothers in the sandbox playing with her!

I remember a friend commenting that her daughters spent HOURS at a time in their sandbox.

I kept waiting for such an experience with the boys.

The boys had their moments in the sand but it usually lasted only till someone caught a glimpse of a chipmunk at which time they grabbed their stick bows and arrows and took off for the woods.

Of course the warmer weather brings ticks. . .we've already snatched one off of Little A's head.

April also brings the spring basketball league which means mom makes one dinner before the game

and another after!

And look who lost his last front tooth!

We're remembering this Maundy Thursday and the upcoming celebration of Easter.

I couldn't recall what the word Maundy stood for.

This is what I found. . .

The name of the Thursday of Holy Week – Maundy – is derived from the Latin word mandatum, or command. Hence, the English word “mandate,” or commandment. The idea in “Maundy” is based on the command Jesus gave his disciples at the last evening meal of his earthly ministry, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35). In Latin “a new commandment I give you” is Mandatum novum do vobis. And that is why the celebration day is called “Maundy Thursday” – or “Holy Thursday,” as it is known outside English-speaking nations. Footwashing, included in some Maundy Thursday services, is simply one illustration of how Christians are to love and humbly serve one another.

It was a Maundy Thursday evening many years ago, after a Jews for Jesus seder dinner, that I dedicated my life to Christ.

I'm thankful that God spoke to my heart at a young age and that He continues to speak through the joys, trials, mistakes and triumphs of my life.

Happy Thursday,

Heather

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-03-30T17:08:00.001-05:00

For today March 30

Outside my window.....the sun is shining, the skies are blue, and I think the temp. may have reached 60 today!

I am thinking....about a family who lost a special loved one this week.

I am thankful.....for Easter traditions the kids always look forward to celebrating.

I am wearing.....black pants, white turtleneck and a brown fleece vest.

I am hearing.....the kids playing outside.

I am creating.....thank you notes with pictures from Mr. A's birthday.

I am going.....to need a boost of energy to finish this day strong.

I am reading.....the book of John.

I am praying.....for friends who just left for a cross country road trip out west.

I am remembering.....shopping for that special new Easter dress when I was young.

I am hoping.....this warmer weather keeps a comin'.

On my mind.....the frustration of our yahoo e-mail being eliminated and the new transition not going smoothly. Grrrrr!

From the learning rooms....State capitals, place value, a 2nd grader learning division, and the end of our Caddie Woodlawn story.

Noticing that....the snow is gone and the kids come in the house covered in dead grass as they play football and baseball on our yet to be, green lawn.

Pondering these words....."There is no duty we so much underrate as the duty of being happy. By being happy we sow anonymous benefits upon the world." Robert Louis Stevenson

From the kitchen.....Spaghetti for dinner and a messy kitchen to clean up after 11 kids ate 7 pizzas and a batch of cookies for lunch!

Around the house....two Christmas wreaths still hang in my kitchen windows. Time to take them down, don'tcha think?

One of my favorite things.....oatmeal cookies and a glass of milk. Yes, I did indulge so the numbers on the scale did not decrease this week.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....basketball league has started for 3 boys, Good Friday church service, Easter breakfast at church, washing winter gear (do I dare?).

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you....

H-man playing on one of the last remaining snow piles.

Thank you for stopping and visiting my daybook. If you'd like to visit others who are participating or write a journal yourself, please stop over at Peggy's at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Happy Tuesday!

Heather

Friday favorites

2010-03-26T22:05:00.001-05:00

This week went by in a blink of the eye!

A few favorites which come to my mind immediately. . .

A warm smile from a complete stranger as I was running errands in the car.

"Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing."

-Mother Teresa of Calcutta

A welcome full night's sleep from a daughter who has been sooo uncomfortable from the chicken pox. I think the brown malt vinegar baths (1/2 c to lukewarm bathwater), which I read would lessen the irritation and help heal the lesions, did help her.

The warmth of the sunshine and the kids playing on the swings.

Reconnecting with an old friend and knowing now how to pray for her family and the challenges they are currently facing.

A new geography website the kids have loved this week. The fourth graders are learning their states and capitals. They love the competition and even my second grader scored 100% by the end of the week. Check it out HERE.

A new quick lunch favorite everyone enjoyed and the older ones can make themselves: Whole wheat English muffin (toasted), topped with pizza sauce, pepperoni, mozzarella cheese and mushrooms. Bake at 425 until cheese is melted.

Hope you had a few favorites this week too!

Happy Friday,

Heather

bumps

2010-03-23T23:12:00.001-05:00

So this morning I change Little A's diaper and, oh dear! what do I see?

Lots of little bumps on her bum and tummy!

Last week we said good-bye to Lucy-cat as she'd (temporarily) gone mad. . .

Now this week the chicken pox have descended upon our family pad!

So far a low grade fever and a little itching on the head,

I wonder what I'll see in the morning when she calls me from her bed?

We're rollin' with the punches as we say hello to spring,

Thankful for the sunshine and playin' on the swing.

Happy Tuesday!

Heather

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-03-19T20:53:00.001-05:00

For today March 19

Outside my window.....The skies are dark as it's just before 8:00 pm.

I am thinking....I'm behind on blogging this week due to a few unforeseen happenings this week.

I am thankful.....that it's Friday!

I am wearing.....black sport pants, pumpkin colored t-shirt and a taupe sweater.

I am hearing.....NCAA basketball playing on the television.

I am creating.....a logo and letterhead for a small company we are establishing.

I am going.....to box up clothes the little ones have grown out of and simplify those closets.

I am reading.....Caddie Woodlawn to the kids.

I am praying.....for peace and direction concerning family decisions.

I am remembering.....the fun I had with the home school mom's basketball team playing against the kids on Thursday. The kids were even surprised how well the moms did! It was great exercise, and my teammates kindly encouraged this out of shape player with very limited knowledge of the sport.

I am hoping.....Lucy, our cat, continues to recuperate from a week which included a two night stay at the animal hospital after hallucinations, fear, and extreme aggressiveness forced us to "commit her". It is assumed that the bizarre behavior occurred after she ate "fish bait" used for trapping. I even brought the kids to the vet to "say good-bye" to Lucy when it was looking as if she'd be "put down". . . thankfully God had other plans for her.

On my mind.....my comment to Mr. E. last night, "We've come a long way baby! You're fixin' toilets and I'm playin' basketball!! It really is funny considering our lack of talent in those areas!

Noticing that....most of the snow is gone! In March? We'll probably get dumped on again but we're heading into spring!

Pondering these words....."We are to hate sin in ourselves and in all men, but never undervalue the man in whom the sin is found." A.W. Tozer

From the kitchen.....Crepes for dinner tonight. A family favorite.

Around the house....Piles of clean and dirty laundry to be dealt with tomorrow.

One of my favorite things.....A happy, purring cat in my arms.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....The week is almost done and the weekend plans are few which feels wonderful to me.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you....

We're glad to have you back home Lucy!

Thank you for stopping and visiting my daybook. If you'd like to visit others who are participating or write a journal yourself, please stop over at Peggy's at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Happy Friday!

And may you sleep as well as Lucy on this end-of-a-long-week night.

Heather

Laughter

2010-03-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

We watched a movie this weekend which had us all giggling.

What makes me laugh even more is watching the kids laugh!

H-man is the one who expresses his laughter in a most contagious way.

And it always brings a smile to my face.

Laughter is an instant vacation.
-- Milton Berle

After a day of pondering difficult family decisions, watching a movie which caused me to laugh till I cried was without a doubt, an instant vacation!

May this Monday bring moments of laughter your way!

Heather

Friday Favorites

2010-03-12T22:32:00.001-06:00

It's Friday afternoon and I'm just coming up for air after a week which left little time for blogging.

We now have a six year old in the family! Yesterday we celebrated Mr. A's birthday. Everything from making his cake, eating his cake, opening his presents, and playing Yahtzee was a moment of celebrating for him.

Did you know?
Court says 'under God' constitutional (OneNewsNow.com)

SAN FRANCISCO – A federal appeals court in San Francisco upheld the use of the words "under God" in the Pledge of Allegiance and "In God We Trust" on U.S. currency, rejecting arguments on Thursday that the phrases violate the separation of church and state.

It's hard to believe this was appealed in our country. May this victory always be upheld.
And how about this news? I've joined the mom's basketball team for our homeschool group. Yep. . . Never played basketball, ever. Why not start in my overweight, out of shape, 40's huh? This has been a source of wonderment and laughter for my family. But hey, I'm gettin' some exercise and I even enjoyed our first practice last night. Mr. E. claims he'll be taking off of work to come watch the game next Thursday and take video. Maybe I'll post a few pictures, depending upon how good, or bad, I look.

Enjoy the weekend and don't forget to turn your clocks ~~BACK~~, oops I mean AHEAD, Saturday night.

Heather

I Heart Faces

2010-03-08T13:37:00.001-06:00

JUMP!

GO HERE to I Heart Faces and view lots of other JUMP! photos this week.

These sisters can jump, huh??

Happy Monday,

Heather

hiccups

2010-03-05T20:10:00.001-06:00

I love my daily routine.

I love the predictable.

I love the assumed "eb and flow" of our full family life.

But then invariably there are the daily "hiccups" which present themselves.

Moments when I think to myself, "Lord, I'm being tested here. Help me to not disobey you during this little hiccup."

Hiccups for this week?

Thursday morning. . .I've taken my morning shower, dressed, combed the wet hair and trying to find my glasses.

Glasses, where are you???

I always put them on the vanity before entering the shower.

Finally, after five unsuccessful minutes of blurry searching (I honestly can only see a foot in front of me without my glasses) I yell for "the troops" to rally and find mommy's glasses. I have only walked from the bed to the bathroom this morning! Where could they be?

The boys put me through a battery of questions in hopes that I really didn't need my glasses . . .

"Can you see me here Mom?"

"How about now?"

"Wow, she really can't see!"

"She won't be able to drive!"

My reading glasses were found three times over and I needed to convince each excited rescuer that the reading glasses won't work and it was the glasses for seeing far away which were lost.

Hiccup.

Definite hiccup and time of testing.

Finally, after fifteen minutes of searching, Z-man FOUND my glasses behind the bathroom door on a stack of towels. Why I put them there I have NO idea.

What was left was a disastrous mound of books and papers on my bed as my nightstand had been cleared out during the reckless search and rescue.

I guess the long overdue project of organizing my messy side of the bed would take place, TODAY.

Other hiccups? The home school sports club shirt to be worn each Thursday still has not been found. And a pile of clothes which still needs to be folded and organized on the shelves in this son's closet from the chaotic search and no recovery mission.

Another? Making quiche tonight only to realize I only have 1 cup of milk and need 4 1/2 cups. Fortunately, Mr. E. was able to pick up a gallon on his way home and we'll be eating dinner at 7:30 instead of 6:30.

Such is life.

All the daily hiccups are inevitable.

The only constant is my faith. My Lord, He will lead me through these daily challenges.

I like this quote from Beth Moore: "God's mercies have existed through all of eternity, yet Scripture tells us they are new every morning. A new day with all its fresh challenges gives an old practice of faith new life."

Yes, my faith has new life each day!

"Because of the Lord's faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! I say: The Lord is my portion, therefore I will put my hope in Him." Lamentations 3:22-24

May you rest well this Friday night. . .

So you'll be ready for tomorrow's hiccups and

for your old practice of faith to be given NEW LIFE.

And just because everything's more interesting with a picture. . .

Guess Little A needs a hair cut, huh?

Happy Friday night,

Heather

The view from here. . .

2010-03-03T21:20:00.001-06:00

So I caught a winter bug last week.

By Sunday my bedside view was mostly this. . .

Although I did have the beautiful morning sunrise each day to view from the bedroom window.

We've had such unseasonably warm sunshiny weather this first week in March.

The children, you wonder?

Oh yes, my six children.

They pretty much ran wild while I tried to tune them out.

Just kidding.

Mostly. ::grin::

They did more of this than usual. . .

On the couch watching something educational I'm sure.

Yes, they do have knives in their hands.

Just cutting up their mangos, I promise.

But today dawned a new beginning.

Momma was even out of her pajamas, made salads for lunch, and tromped outside to capture the winter fun on this beautiful March day with temperatures reaching 40.

Yes, that's Little A without her coat or hat.

I can assure you that she was not barefoot.

I guess this mom is not fully functioning quite yet.

But I'm close. Real close.

Hope this month brings spring-like weather and good health your way.

Happy Wednesday,

Heather

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-03-01T18:31:00.001-06:00

For today March 1

Outside my window.....the sun is shining brightly and the skies are blue!

I am thinking.....it's hard to believe today is March 1. We're heading into spring folks!

I am thankful.....for another 2 lbs. lost last week. That's a total of 5. Yippee!

I am wearing.....My husband's army green fleece shirt and my black sport pants.

I am hearing.....the boys wrestling on my bed. "Out of my room boys!!"

I am creating.....a "Simply Grand Photography" logo, just for the fun of it!

I am going.....to bring C-man to Tai-Kwan-Do, run to the grocery store, come home, make dinner, do Little A's laundry, tidy up the kitchen, make Mr. E's lunch for tomorrow, and head to bed!(in a nutshell)

I am reading.....the popular Children's Book of Virtues by William Bennett to the kids this week.

I am praying.....for my dad who came down with shingles this week.

I am remembering.....I guess my memory has left me--I cannot "remember" anything at the moment.

I am hoping.....that this cold virus will leave and I'll have more energy by the end of the week.

On my mind.....I'd like to attend a photography workshop this year.

From the learning rooms....Alexander Graham Bell today. Did you know that his greatest enjoyment in life was teaching the deaf and blind?

Noticing that....when the sun is shining at the temps are in the 30's, the boys spend LOTS of time outside.

Pondering these words....."Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it." (Prov. 22:6)

I hope my kids choose to walk in His ways when they are on the younger side of "old". I would delight in seeing them walk closely with Him. But I'm sure we have some ~~interesting~~ challenging days ahead. I'll start praying now.

From the kitchen.....Spaghetti for dinner tonight and quiche tomorrow.

Around the house....we're all glad to have daddy in town this week.

One of my favorite things.....a warm shower.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....the usual weekly routine plus a wedding on Saturday.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you....

I need a smile about now. . .and this picture does it for me.

Thank you for stopping and visiting my daybook on this day. If you'd like to visit others who are participating or write a journal yourself, please stop over at Peggy's at Simple Woman's Daybook

Happy first day of March!

Heather

Olympics!

2010-02-28T19:55:00.001-06:00

What a great Olympic game this afternoon for hockey fans all over the world.

Growing up in So. California I don't remember hockey being played in our community or school athletics.

Now living in the northern mid west, I can say hockey is B.I.G. around here.

Kids learn to skate soon after learning to walk.

Our kids are not involved in hockey. It's a year round sport now, and requires a major time commitment.

But they love the chance to play in the backyard rink at a friends' house.

Competition. . . these boys relish it!

After taking an afternoon nap trying to end this lingering cold, I caught the medal ceremony.

Congratulations, Canada!

Next Winter Olympic Games?

Sochi, Russia 2014

XXII Winter Olympic Games
7 - 23 February 1439 days left

The city of Sochi, Russia, has been elected as the host city for the XXII Olympic Winter Games in 2014. The announcement was made by IOC President Jacques Rogge in Guatemala City, where the IOC members were meeting. Sochi was elected in the second round of voting with 51 votes against 47 votes for PyeongChang, South Korea.

The vision of Sochi 2014 is to unite the resources of the city of Sochi, the Krasnodar region and the Russian nation to develop in Sochi greatly needed sports venues and resort infrastructure, in a sustainable, inclusive, environmentally responsible manner. Their goal is to deliver Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games of unsurpassed excellence for the athletes, the Olympic family, the Paralympic family and the world.

City Details: The city of Sochi is located in far southwestern Russia along the edge of the Black Sea. It fronts the massive peaks of the snow-capped Caucasus Mountains, a perfect venue for winter sports of all types. The last local census indicated 328,809 residents, but that will certainly increase as construction and development activities for the 2014 Winter Olympics progress.

We've sure enjoyed watching the Olympic Games each night.

Now it's time for earlier bedtimes.

Happy Sunday,

Heather

Bed Time

2010-02-23T23:09:00.001-06:00

Bed time with the children. . . it's always umm, let's just say a test of my patience at the end of a long day.

But sometimes I just have to smile and take it all in.

I can vividly remember my sister and me calling for my mom to come tuck us in at night. "All riiiiiiight mooooother, we're reeeeeadyyyyy", we would loudly announce in unison. I loved having my mom sit on my bed and talk as I would try to lengthen the good night ritual.

So it was with Mr. A tonight, my soon to be six year old.

Usually I ask, "What was the best part of your day?"

Tonight he had similar questions for me as well as the answers he thought most fitting.

And then he had to show me the surprise under his pillow.

(He's had a sense of humor from the "get-go"!)

"Look what I'm hiding so the brothers won't take them!"

("Bullets" to his Nerf gun)

"Let's count them!"

And at the feet of his bed??

His beloved "guns".

He's really "packin' the heat", huh?!

He loves to have his picture taken!

And I love to comply.

Finally after the many questions are answered and the final trip to the bathroom has been made, I say a final "Good Night, I love you."

And I hear the words every mom loves to hear,

"I love you too momma."

Hope it was a happy Tuesday,

Heather

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-02-22T22:37:00.001-06:00

Outside my window.....it's dark at 9:15pm.

I am thinking.....this cold I'm fighting has me draggin'.

I am thankful.....for the recent milder temperatures. The 30's feel wonderful!

I am wearing.....my walking shorts, black tank and a plaid flannel shirt. . .totally precious!

I am hearing.....the Olympics on TV.

I am creating......DVD's of photos and videos to edit and give to friends.

I am going.....to clean up the kitchen, and make my husband's lunch before heading to bed.

I am reading.....my devotionals and a few low-carb cookbooks I picked up at the library.

I am praying.....for safe travels as my folks will be on the road heading south.

I am remembering.....(after just sneezing four times) a friend from years past (Pete Robinson) who would say after someone sneezed. . . "God Bless you", and they sneezed again. . ."God Bless You". . . and they sneezed again. . . "the third time your on your own!"

I am hoping.....that I can keep losing the pounds as the scale revealed -3 this morning. Yeah!

On my mind.....we were exposed to the chicken pox so I'm curious what the next month will bring. Also, my grandpa turns 93 tomorrow!

From the learning rooms....the solar system today. "My Very Educated Mother Just Showed Us Nine Planets". (Mars, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto)

Noticing that....the Olympics have us watching lots of TV lately. And it's been fun to follow those amazing athletes.

Pondering these words..... "God loves each one of us as if there were only one of us." Augustine

From the kitchen.....Chicken noodle soup this week and hopefully a few new recipes from the cookbook I'm reading.

Around the house....the Monday laundry is done but not put away, and the counters are beginning to collect the usual clutter once again.

One of my favorite things.....watching the ice skaters in the Olympics.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....basketball games for the boys, home school sports club, watching a black belt ceremony and the final winter swim lesson.

Here's a picture thought I am sharing. . . The boys did a great job at their first piano recital last night. A fun time was had by all!

Thank you for stopping and visiting my daybook. If you'd like to visit others who are participating or write a journal yourself, please stop over at Peggy's at Simple Women's Daybook.

Hope this last week in February is a good one for you!

Heather

Armor of God

2010-02-19T20:00:00.001-06:00

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. . . .

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, stand with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:10-18

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Eph. 6:12

Equipped with your armor, have a victorious weekend!

Happy Friday!

Heather

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-02-16T12:47:00.001-06:00

Outside my window.....I see blue skies and reflections of the sun on the snow covered landscape.

I am thinking......it's going to be a great day!

I am thankful.....for a friend's thoughtfulness in letting us use their "rabbit ears" and converter box so we can watch the Olympics. Yeah!!

I am wearing......my walking shorts and my husband's army green fleece sweatshirt.

I am hearing.....the kids playing downstairs as they take a school break before table time begins.

I am creating.....a "talk" about courage for our Thursday homeschool group.

I am going......to head to the library today and pick up a few books I ordered.

I am reading..... my A.W. Tozer devotional.

I am praying......for healing of my mom's painful foot. She can hardly walk because of plantar fasciitis.

I am remembering.....Mr. A telling Little A, "I love you and Jesus loves you too--always remember that, OK?"

I am hoping......to find winter boots on sale for C-man who's been wearing rain boots this season.

On my mind......the thoughtfulness of our neighbor who took his time to snow blow our driveway.

From the learning rooms....Z-man is enjoying his new "Spelling Zoo" DVD program (Institute for Excellence in Writing).

Noticing that.....the more exercising I do the more energy I have during the day.

Pondering these words....."Sometimes God requires us to follow a fair amount of repetition for a considerable amount of time until He deems a season complete. Then all of a sudden, He seems to do something profound or miraculous, and we can't figure out what changed." Beth Moore

From the kitchen.....leftovers and NO more sugary treats allowed around here.

Around the house.....my new bookshelves on sale from Target are great. I even have room for more books.

One of my favorite things.....listening to my mom read Boxcar Children books aloud to the kids.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....helping the Food Pantry, orthodontist apts., library, homeschool sports club, and piano recital.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you....

A friend's precious little boy.

Thank you for stopping and visiting my daybook. If you'd like to visit others who are participating or write a journal yourself, please stop over at Peggy's at Simple Woman's Daybook.

Happy Tuesday,

Heather

Happy Hearts Day!

2010-02-14T14:50:00.001-06:00

"LOVE does not consist in gazing at each other

but in looking outward

together in the same direction."

-Antoine De Saint-Exupery

Hope you are surrounded with love on this Valentine's Day.

Heather

A Valentine for Him

2010-02-13T09:17:00.001-06:00

9 ACROSS

V-A-L-E-N-T-I-N-E

Check this out. . .

For a fun Valentine to make for your special someone, go to puzzlemaker.discoveryeducation.com and create a free customized crossword that incorporates words and clues from your relationship.

I made this one:

ACROSS

2. Our special day in 1989

3. Where we met

5. Kisses sweeter than _______

8. Our first pet

9. You want to do this one day

11. Your favorite dessert

DOWN

1. I make this for you every day

4. Don't forget to tell me _________.

6. You are a ___________ owl.

7. I am this to you

10. Our second hometown

12. Arrows in your quiver

My Valentine surprised me with these last night.

I love flowers, especially tulips.

Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love. . . puts up with anything, trusts God always, always looks for the best, never looks back, but keeps going to the end. 1 Corinthians 13:4 MSG

Happy Saturday!

Heather

What??

2010-02-10T22:00:00.001-06:00

As with many people, I'm inspired to begin positive lifestyle habits come the new year.

It is now February 10 and I've been doing fairly well on the whole eating healthier and exercising regularly routine. My goal is to lose 30 pounds. I haven't stepped on the scale because. . . if I don't see a number which is less than the number I saw the last time. . . it's just a depressing way to start the day, you know?!! But this morning I was brave. I physically prepared. . .bathrobe is off, hair is dry, bladder is empty. . .I think I'm ready.

WHAT???

I gained two whole pounds!!

Then I ponder where I might have been making wrong choices.

There were recent temptations such as these. . .

But I had done well avoiding those beautiful sweet things.

Then I remembered the sale on cereal and our recent pantry abundance of Corn Fakes and Cheerios.

These are major weaknesses of mine and one which I have indulged in too much. Somehow I seem to rationalize that cereal doesn't contain THAT many calories.

Seriously, I think there are valid reasons for the low carb diet, especially at my 40-something age.

So my plan is to begin cutting back on the carbs, as hard as it is for me.

I know that the exercising is healthy for my body, mind & spirit and I want to keep that up.

It's hard to not be discouraged.

We've been studying Abraham Lincoln.

Did you know this?

LINCOLN'S ROAD TO THE WHITE HOUSE

Failed in business in 1831

Defeated for legislature in 1832

Second failure in business in 1833

Suffered a nervous breakdown in 1836

Defeated for Speaker in 1838

Defeated for Elector in 1840

Defeated for Congress in 1843

Defeated for Congress in 1848

Defeated for Senate in 1855

Defeated for Vice President in 1856

Defeated for Senate in 1858

Elected President in 1860

So no positive results today for me but tomorrow is another day.

And even though I'd like to grab an evening snack of Corn Flakes, I'll head to bed and say AMEN to this prayer by Augustine. . .

Let my soul take refuge. . . beneath the shadow of Your wings; let my heart, this sea of restless waves, find peace in You, O God.

May you find peace, resting in Him this day.

Heather

Key to lasting love

2010-02-09T22:43:00.001-06:00

The following story about UCLA basketball coach John Wooden was told by our youth pastor during a recent sermon. It was so touching that I asked for a copy. I think it will bring a smile to your face.

There has never been a finer person in American sports than John wooden or a finer coach. He won ten NCAA basketball championships at UCLA, the last in 1975. Nobody has ever come even within six of them. He won 88 straight games, nobody has come within 42 since. There has never been another coach like Wooden. Loyal to one woman, one school, one way, walking around campus in sensible shoes and Jimmy Stewart morals. Discipline yourself and others won't need to, coach would say. Never lie, never cheat, never steal and earn the right to be proud and confident. If you played for him, you played by his rules. Never score without acknowledging your teammate. One word of profanity and you're done for the day. Treat your opponent with respect. He believed in hopelessly out of date stuff but never did anything but win championships. No long hair, no facial hair--it would take too long to dry and you will catch cold leaving the gym, he would say. That one drove his players bonkers! One day, all American center Bill Walton showed up with a full beard. "It's my right!", he insisted. Wooden asked if he believed that strongly, and Walton said he did. "That's good, Bill, I admire people who have strong beliefs and stick by them. I really do. We're going to miss you." Walton shaved it right then and there. Now Walton calls coach once a week to tell him how much he loves him. Wooden is almost 90 now, but on the 21st of the month, the best man I know will do what he always does on the 21st of the month. He'll sit down and he'll pen a love letter to his best girl. He'll say how much he misses her and loves her and can't wait to see her again. Then he'll fold it once, slide it into a little envelope and walk into his bedroom. He'll go to the stack of love letters sitting there on her pillow, untie the yellow ribbon, place the new one on top and tie the ribbon again. The stack will be 180 letters high then because the 21st will be 15 years to the day since Nelly, his beloved wife of 53 years, died. In her memory, he sleeps only on his half of the bed, only on his pillow, only on top of the sheets, never between, with just the old bedspread they shared to keep him warm. You see, that kind of commitment is the key to lasting love.

And since we're talkin' about love and sports. . .

Here are a few snapshots of the twins lovin' their sports!

May you rejoice this Valentine's week in your lasting love.

Happy Tuesday,

Heather

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-02-08T19:38:00.001-06:00

For today February 8

Outside my window.....cloudy and lightly snowing

I am thinking.....it's a good afternoon to take a walk but I better do it quickly cause these eyelids are gettin' heavy.

I am thankful.....for the loving friendships God has given to me.

I am wearing.....black pants, black top and rusty-orange sweater

I am hearing.....the hum of the computer while the kids have some quiet reading time.

I am creating.....valentines!

I am going.....to make and effort to recognize and reward positive behavior in my kids.

I am reading.....my devotionals in the morning.

I am praying.....about upcoming decisions regarding our church's children's ministry.

I am remembering.....how my dad would always buy my sister and me See's Candy for Valentine's Day. As with anything now, you can order it online. It's the best!

I am hoping.....to sort through and organize our stacks of music CD's this week.

On my mind.....computer problems and making the time and effort to get them fixed.

From the learning rooms....I ordered the first 10 Caldecott Medal Winners from the library. The award began in 1938 and I'd like to set a goal to read all 72 to the kids by the end of the year.

Noticing that....The kids are tired and cranky after staying up later for Superbowl fun.

Pondering these words. . . Lord, someone once said that anything that becomes a burden will be discarded with relief. So please keep me from ever giving the children the impression that belonging to You and obeying You are a burden and a joyless journey.--Ruth Bell Graham

From the kitchen.....I'm cleaning out the freezer. Steaks for dinner this week.

Around the house.....I finally have a clutter-free office!

One of my favorite things.....A positive "this tastes great, Mom!" comment at the dinner table.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....basketball game for the boys, soccer meeting, a special Valentine dinner with my husband, and friends in town for the weekend.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you....

Little A requests that we "weed" each night before bed. Love those precious little hands.

Thank you for stopping and visiting my daybook. If you'd like to visit others who are participating or write a journal yourself, please stop over at Peggy's at Simple Woman's Daybook

Happy Monday,

Heather

Simply Grand Central

Sunday, July 17, 2011

cousins

workshop, wildflowers & worry

the American dollhouse

summertime Sunday

The truth is. . .

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did,

but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Maya Angelou

(This has been ringing in my ears since I read it two weeks ago. It’s just so true.)

songs

The Gospel song, "On Christ, The Solid Rock I Stand" is also known as

"My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less".

This song was written by Edward Mote in 1834.

Rose

wishes

Happy Mother’s Day!

welcoming spring

my helper

warriors

top ten

7!

ready, set, swim

style

wondering

family time

Storyline

socks

mamas and papa

extracurricular

kittens-11 days

onward we go

kittens!

favorites

lights, camera, action

the reason

winter or summer?

Happy Thanksgiving!

our thespians

firsts

the forecast

sweet treats

little pumpkin

hissing and kissing

caught

just want you to know

new beginnings

96 years young

crafts, cream & color

simply grand reading

fall thanks

Tomato Time

2. Good soil is very important

3. Death brings life

4. Pruning produces more fruit

5. A branch can’t bear fruit separated from the plant

Look, there they are!

Schooltime!

Hanna's Sneak Peek

Will's Sneak Peek

the hammock

Jaci's Sneak Peek

Face Painting

summertime fun

blueberry blast

I Do

celebrating with sushi

weekend surprise

Simple Woman's Daybook

Serving

Angels in a Mustang

The eyes have it

little things

Pepperoni Pizza Puffs

Simple Woman's Daybook

Simply Grand Game

pretty things

lookin' for the light

Monday happenings