Laura's Life Sketches

It's a Boy!

2011-08-25T09:44:00.001-04:00

We found out this month that another boy will be added to the family! The expected date of his arrival is late December. I brought all 4 kids with me to the ultrasound. Micah was the most excited because he was 'alive and healthy'! Josh was a little quiet- he was excited, but he wanted a sister for Sophie. Sophie was dissapointed, but that has mostly worn off . Judah saw that Mommy was right, there really was a baby in her tummy! We celebrated afterwards by going to a park and getting some icecream. So thankful for the little blessings God has given me.

Under Construction

2011-08-25T09:34:00.001-04:00

We have been doing this all summer:

Just after the new year, we received word that my husband's job would likely be transferred to another location. For 3 months we started looking for houses there and began preparing. In the late spring, some unforeseen circumstances happened at work and he was asked to stay. As soon as we found out we were staying, literally that evening, my husband took a sledge hammer and started knocking down walls in our basement. We have been wanting to remodel our home for some time now. We have seen traces of mold in our basement and with Judah's asthma, we knew we needed to take care of that. We began the planning process to remodel before the word about the job transfer. When we found out it was likely, all plans came to a stop until we knew for sure what was happening (we would do just what we needed to do to sell the house-if we moved, not all we wanted to do). So, when we knew we were staying, we started the remodeling process back up. It has been a can of worms. It's been a series of peeling up one layer and seeing the bottom layer needs work. My husband has been doing all the construction (in our college summers, he worked for a builder and therefore had learned so much), my dad has helped us with the electrical, so we've only needed to hire help with the plumbing so far. I've heard remodeling is such a mess and it is. There is a layer of drywall dust on every surface in the house. But we're little by little getting somewhere and that part is exciting. The basement, which started as the main focus, now has became the last. It is unfinished now, but free from mold and mildew. The new focus has been to bring the laundry from the basement to the 2nd floor and redo the master bathroom on the main floor (since they're right on top of each other they needed to be done simultaneously). We also decided to expand our kitchen a bit. So, maybe, by the time baby arrives this bit of construction will be over. In the meantime, it's a family affair- mixing dope, sweeping with the shop vac and bagging up garbage. Trying not to be overwhelmed- especially as school is starting up again next week! God is teaching me many lessons through all of this for sure.

Two Summer Birthdays

2011-08-01T21:43:00.005-04:00

Joshua turned 7 this summer! We dearly love this little boy-- he's so affectionate and yet so serious! He's my little thinker. We 're so thankful for all 7 years we've had with him so far.

Legos are a favorite around here right now. His cake was made by cutting into blocks with halves of marshmallows on it. Super easy!

---------

Sophia turned 11 a couple weeks after Josh. She's turned into quite a young lady and is getting so tall. I'm thankful for her passion towards music, reading and writing. I'm looking forward to see what this next school year will bring for her as she'll be in the 6th grade already!

Playing Catch Up Again

2011-08-01T21:10:00.007-04:00

Whew. Looking back over the last several months I'm trying to decide what to post first. I guess I should back up to April. Today, I promised my grandmother I would post pictures of the murals

I've been working on and realized I haven't posted the most recent one. Earlier I painted the 50s children with pendants, then the next two were free standing canvases. The first was a baseball fence scene with hidden pictures and then the second was from an old photo of Roger Maris. This one was so fun because it was so different from the rest being in monotone. It also felt like the paint flew quickly for this one.

The shot below shows the size of the canvas. The living room was the only place I could fit the canvases. They were too large to take upstairs or downstairs to paint in an out-of-the-way spot. So, my kids were a bit disappointed that having many friends over to play was not happening much these days.

So fun to be painting again!

Judah turns 3!!!

2011-05-13T08:53:00.002-04:00

It's hard to believe my little boy turned 3! Judah is such a delight.

Who knows who he's calling.

We love our little man!

Happy Birthday, Samantha!

2011-05-12T09:36:00.000-04:00

Today would have been Samantha's 4th birthday. Unbelievable! I finally figured a way to get a clip from our home movies of her smiling for the first time. This was taken 2 weeks before she died (9-18-07). She was 4 months old. We weren't sure if she would smile at all (honestly, we weren't sure if she could see or hear much). This series of smiles (they lasted about 3 days) was one of the most precious gifts she gave me.

What's Been Occupying My Time Lately

2011-04-25T09:17:00.002-04:00

Several weeks ago I had 2 very large packages come via semi truck to our home.

The kids loved the box they came in and were busy making a house in no time.

The first mural idea the client wanted was something like this (a picture he found) :

So this is what I came up with:

I changed the children to resemble the client's children and I changed the angle of the fence to make it more artistic. Finally, I added 10 hidden pictures throughout. Since this will be hung in a dentist's office, it will be something fun the kids can find.

Hidden below are a ball and jacks, gecko and teacup.

Peppermint and Bible.

It's been so much fun. However, I didn't anticipate the size or the amount of room they'd take up. I could not maneuver the canvases down the stairs so the only spot for them have been in the living room. The kids have been very good in keeping far away from it, but they've been disappointed that we haven't had many people over for visits because of the risk. I'm hoping to deliver the canvases this week and will be relieved when they leave in one piece.

Christ has Died! Christ is Risen! Christ will Come Again!

2011-04-24T09:06:00.002-04:00

This is the Threefold Truth

This is the threefold truth on which our faith depends,
and with this joyful cry worship begins and ends:
Christ has died! Christ is risen! Christ will come again!

On this we fix our minds as, praying side by side,
we take the bread and wine from Christ the crucified:
Christ has died! Christ is risen! Christ will come again!

By this we are upheld when doubt or grief assails
our Christian fortitude, and only grace avails:
Christ has died! Christ is risen! Christ will come again!

This is the threefold truth which, if we hold it fast,
changes the world and us and brings us home at last:
Christ has died! Christ is risen! Christ will come again!

1 Corinthians 15:3-5

Spring Break ?

2011-03-29T08:19:00.010-04:00

We had a week off of Classical Conversations, so we decided to head up North for Spring Break. This time, Amy (my sister) and Elena, her daughter, came with us. My poor boys. Joshies had an ear ache on the 9 hour car ride up and was in bed for the next 4 days with a fever. The day after, Micah was hit. They both went in and out of sleep for several days. Finally on Friday (the day we were planning on heading home) I took them to see the local doctor. They were prescribed antibiotics and the next day they were improving. I was noticing Judah was starting to act sick so I wanted to head home right away.

I had a moment during the week where I could get a long look at my favorite lake. It was so pretty seeing the ice formations.

The kids had a blast with their cousin, beside all the sickness, and thankfully, she escaped it all and went home in good health.

After returning home, the next day I took Sophia to the doctor and found out she had strep. Judah was immediately tested and his test was also positive. Now our fridge had 8 bottles of amoxicillin. I asked the pharmacist if it came in gallons.

The first night I gave Judah his medicine he developed a rash all over one side of his face and his eye lid was all puffy and he started wheezing (we've found out this winter he has asthma so I've been watching for signs all along). I guess he's allergic to amoxicillin. Poor little guy was better after a breathing treatment.

Whew. What a week. I agree with Josh who said when it was all finished, "We missed Spring Break!! Can't we do it again??"

Evening Entertainment

2011-03-06T09:24:00.000-05:00

My husband and I were actually having uninterrupted conversation this evening after dinner. We soon noticed why the divided attention. I bet the 'pot' was at least 20 minutes of entertainment!

Over Night Adventure

2011-02-28T08:59:00.001-05:00

We decided to go with some friends to the Great Wolf Lodge for a night in Mason. It ended up that some other friends went too. The party eventually became 5 adults and 16 children! We had so much fun!! The place was huge! With all of the friends having the large spectrum of ages, was so much better too. There was always someone they knew nearby. The kids (and I) didn't want to stop swimming. It was such a great time.

Micah's 9

2011-02-19T09:18:00.001-05:00

Unbelievable. What a great kid we're blessed with!

My Trio

2011-02-10T04:00:00.007-05:00

Here is the video of Sophie and Micah, accompanied by Daddy, playing Fernando Ortega's song If I Flee on Morning Wings for the opening ceremony at CC (Classical Conversations-- our home school group).

Judah Moments

2011-02-02T22:25:00.006-05:00

Life is certainly anything but dull around here. This week there were two particular funny moments. One, was Judah 'helping' Sophie put away the clean dishes from the dishwasher. Behind her back, he was dropping the spoons into the full milk container that was on the counter. Rather than try to get them out, I just stuck the milk back in the fridge. At least they're clean spoons, right? Most people hardly noticed. They thought it was just ice in the jug for a while. Daddy was the lucky one to find all of the silver at the bottom!

Later one evening, my husband and I were sitting on our bed, each working on our respective laptops, when we heard this low continuous beeping sound. It seemed to have started right at the same time the heater kicked on. My first thought was the heating system was going haywire. We both held up our laptops, trying to see if it was coming from it. Nope. It stopped. We turned off the light and it started again. Finally, he jumps out of bed trying to find it and it stops again. Several minutes later, we found Judah had buried deep under the covers the Taboo game buzzer.

If we were given a book as newlyweds, that would tell us all the things our kids might do, we would never have any. But, it's these sorts of moments that I can't stop laughing and hope never to forget them.

Back into Paint

2011-01-10T21:06:00.005-05:00

This year I've decided to take on some painting projects. Friends of ours, who have their own dentist practice, asked me to paint some murals for their office (their son has been one of my faithful art students). The theme is Old Timey Baseball. So this past weekend, I worked on the first project. It's been 5 years since I've painted a mural, so I was a little nervous. I went with a vintage/ Dick and Jane kind of style (from the old children's books). All 4 kids are resemblences of their own 4 children.

Notice the 3rd pendant...hee hee.

I had a lot of fun and look forward to Project #2!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T21:33:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas!

Love,
Sophia, Micah, Joshua, & Judah

Isaiah 9:6-7

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government

shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and of peace

there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom,
to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness

from this time forth and forevermore.
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

Girl's Night Out

2010-12-18T00:00:00.001-05:00

Sophia and I have a tradition that when we complete a violin book, we have a night out. So my husband booked a hotel through Priceline for downtown Cincinnati. We started our exciting day, however, by going to the Nutcracker Ballet. We met Nena there and enjoyed the wonderful performance.

Afterwards, Nena treated us to lunch and gave Sophie an ornament to remember the special day by. I'm so thankful to have such a wonderful mother-in-law.

After lunch, Sophia and I went to a few stores downtown. The candy store was a favorite of hers and mine was the art supply store.

We stayed at the Hyatt by Fountain Square. It was so pretty. With all the Christmas music in the sky walks and the snow all around made it especially magical. We had to ride up and down the escalators just for fun.

After checking in the room, we decided to head up the Carew Tower. There is a viewing deck at the top. It was snowing, so it wasn't the clearest day, but we still had a great time.

We then headed to Fountain Square where there was ice skating. Sophia had soo much fun.

After skating, we went to the Rock Bottom Restaurant where Soph had a couple of refills of hot chocolate.

The Chrismas lights were so pretty. Even the carriages were all lit up.

The hotel lobby had an amazing gingerbread village on display.

We ended our trip the next morning, riding the free carriage ride around the block. It was a very special time and I'm so thankful for such a lovely daughter.

Snow!

2010-12-16T23:50:00.001-05:00

We've had so much snow these past couple weeks. Very exciting. If it's going to be cold, it might as well have snow! It's looking hopeful that we might have a White Christmas this year.

Field Trips

2010-12-07T22:32:00.000-05:00

Mom and Dad came to visit so we decided to hit the city for a couple of days. First we went to Duke Energy where they put on this beautiful electric train display for Christmas.

Judah was fascinated. He was so excited and was telling everyone to "Look!" as the train "is coming!!" again. And then again. And then again. I guess he didn't get that the track was made into a loop.

We were fortunate to have a backstage tour with our home school group at the Music Hall. Soon following, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra played a few pieces demonstrating the importance of Rhythm and Beats found in music.

Judah James

2010-12-04T22:22:00.000-05:00

Judah, who is 2 1/2 years old, is sporting his personality more and more these days. He's such a delight.

Still Catching Up

2010-12-02T16:10:00.011-05:00

This fall was particularly a warm one. Here Judah is playing outside in his winter foot jammies. hmmm.

We really have been enjoying the kid's music. Sophie, Micah (and Josh) have been playing their instruments together more now. Very exciting!

We took a trip to my hometown this fall and visited the apple farm where my mom works each fall. She gives the tours, so we jumped in on one!

And enjoyed some apple cider and homemade doughnuts...

Then took a ride out to the orchard...

where we picked an apple.

The kids enjoyed looking at the animals.

Another thing the kids enjoyed doing at Mema's and Grandpa's, was sledding down their woods in the back (like I used to do too!). Watch out for trees!

Before leaving, Judah had to leave his signature. Yikes. All over the bathroom door. He did try to scrub it off.

I loovve the colors of fall. We did not have them at home because of the drought. So I relished them all the way home.

What????

2010-11-24T09:32:00.004-05:00

After I posted, I opened up my friend's blog to see her mentioning this atrocity. You've got to be kidding me. We'll take the baby!!!

Catching Up

2010-11-24T08:41:00.004-05:00

I am now in the catch-up mode. Being sick for so long from the pregnancy, and then going to the hospital early, has set me back with the house and school. The D&C and recovery went well.

Thank you to all my dear friends and family for your help and encouragement. We are so blessed by you. I know there were concerns- wondering if this was particularily difficult because of Samantha. I really have had peace about it. It's certainly not a fun experience. However, I have been able to trust in God's providence in this (and can't help but think if it's the baby's time to die-this seems to be a much more peaceful way to go then to have a baby go through death outside of the womb like Samantha had to go through). This past weekend I received in the mail the little hand and footprints. The nurse explained to me that they don't mention the prints because it's sometimes not possible. Sometimes people choose not to see them too. But I told her to send them to me! I won't post the picture, but they are perfect. At 14 weeks, they measured about the size of my pinky fingernail.

The kids are doing fine. We've tried to model, as all parents try to do in trials, to keep on going- enjoying life as it's given to us. They've been doing well with keeping up with school, as much as they could, these last four month. But now that I'm feeling fine again, we're back to the books more agressively! So, I guess they would say that part wasn't fine.

I'll show pictures of the last 4 months in the next post.

Looking Heavenward Once Again

2010-11-02T09:37:00.005-04:00

On Friday, I went for my 15 week dr appointment to find there was no heartbeat. It was a rough day. The worst was telling the kids. They've been worried from the beginning, so it was very hard to tell them the news. I go in this Thursday morning to the hospital.

I have seen God's grace working so wonderfully in our lives through this time-showing His steadfast faithfulness. He's provided me with a husband who is an anchor- reminding me of God's promises. He's provided friends that seek us out to help (when my first reaction is to hide). He's provided 4 children who give me plenty of reasons to still smile and go on with living.

If you can think of it, please pray especially for Sophia, my 10 year old. She's really struggling.

A friend emailed me this verse this morning and I'm thankful for these comforting words:

Psalm 63: 6-8 "When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches, for You have been my help, and in the shoadow of Your wings I sing for joy. My soul clings to You, Your right hand upholds me."

These last 13 weeks

2010-10-11T08:31:00.003-04:00

have been pretty interesting. It's taken all my strength and energy to get the kids schooled, laundered and fed! Baby #6 is on it's way to arrive April 20th. The kids are very excited and I'm convinced I'm just plain crazy!! :)

Remembering

2010-09-18T08:06:00.002-04:00

Thinking of our sweet baby girl today. Wondering what 3 years in heaven feels like. Remembering her smile.

Isaiah 40:18-31
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

To Michigan

2010-08-14T16:44:00.000-04:00

Before making our anual August trip to Michigan, we first took the kids the John Williams concert at Riverbend in Cincinnati.

We enjoyed it immensely. The boys favorite was the theme song from Star Wars, but mine was Schindler's List and Jaws.

The next day we headed to RC. We had to take a bike ride the first evening we arrived. The kids couldn't resist the lake, even in their clothes.

One of our favorite things to do is look for pretty rocks.

For 3 days my parents kindly watched the kiddos so I could go with my handsome husband on his business trips. We had a wonderful getaway to Grand Rapids, Holland, then Alpena. We had many hours of driving but we didn't have trouble keeping up conversation. It was such a blessing to work through homeschooling ideas together for the year.

In Holland, we met up with a friend from the Canada days and met him and his wife for dinner. We had a lovely time.

Our last evening ended with me writhing on the floor at 3 am with another kidney stone. I had my first one 6 months ago and really thought I was dying. After going to the ER and finding out it was only a kidney stone, I thought labor was actually perferred. I didn't get sick when I was in labor but with these... I couldn't keep anything down, the pain was that intense.

We were in the woods at a Bed in Breakfast in Alpena when this happened again. And while I was getting sick along the side of the road, he was trying to find a pharmacy that was opened to get me pain medication. We couldn't find any that were opened at 5 am. Giving up, we decided to just drive home to my parents. 2 miles from their home, it was gone. Immediate relief. I was soo grateful it only lasted 4 hours as opposed the 2 days the other one lasted. My parents were confused when we walked in at 7 am, to say the least, and we were too tired to do anything but go right to bed! Add this to the memory bank!

All in all, it was a marvelous trip. The company, fresh air, water and cool breeze was a wonderful start before heading back to begin the new school year.

The Farm Part 2

2010-07-30T07:33:00.000-04:00

Their pasture land was my favorite. Here we're all taking a ride in Uncle Steve's truck looking at the slightly rolling hills, beautiful trees and creek.

Uncle Steve dared the kids to sit in the cold creek for a dollar.

Earlier that evening we went down the road to their little country church.

This church my great grandparents also helped build and was where the 3 generations have attended. So it was where my mom attended as a child.

My grandfather who was a farmer by trade, also was an artist. He took art classes through a correspondence course and therefore was considered the local artist. He painted the two paintings in this church, as well as landscape scenes on barns and chalktalks for local Sunday Schools or VBS'.

My grandfather passed away one year before I was born but my grandmother gave me several of his well-worn art books, since I inherited his love for art.

This was the same month and time of year my parents were married here years ago.

I'm so thankful to be a part of this 3 generations + of parents who urge their children to follow Christ. I know that being raised in a Christian home doesn't mean you will be a Christian. But to be raised hearing the gospel and reading the Bible from an early age sure saves time when life hits and you're wondering what's going on. I'm thankful for that moment in late high school when I decided to commit my life to Christ and that little bit of faith has grown bigger and bigger as Christ reveals Himself to me on a daily basis.

Going back to the farm, I was noticing what a beautiful time of day for my parent's wedding reception in the enormous front yard.

Driving back to Milwaukee to see daddy who was working at a sister company of his, the boys were excited to 'ride' his rental car.

Later that night, we had supper at cousin Sarah's house where my other cousin and Aunt Ruth and Uncle Jim joined us.

Here's Gracie, the kids' second cousin enjoying icecream next to Judah.

In Milwaukee, Daddy treated us to the notorious Kopps for frozen custard.

On that last day Daddy had to work, I took the kids to the Milwaukee Childrens Museum. The kids had so much fun.

On the way home we stopped at another McDonalds but this one had a play place so that was a nice way to get out their wiggles.

The Farm Part 1

2010-07-26T08:36:00.003-04:00

Whew. It's been a whirlwind of a summer so I'm going to try to catch up before the next whirlwind begins. In July, we took a trip to my family's 3 generation farm in Wisconsin. My great grandparents build this house in 1908 (Building cost: $1200!). My grandmother, an only child, grew up and married a farmer and they took up the farm. Eventually they had 4 daughters (my mom is the second oldest) and the youngest married a farmer and they've had the farm ever since. It's an Anne of Green Gables sort of place.

I've always liked Aunt Nancy and Uncle Steve- and they were so great to let the kids and I crash their place for two days. The kids had a blast.

Uncle Steve always likes to tease Sophie. Right off the bat, he asked her who her boyfriend was- while offering her a raw corn cob- while eating a chocolate chip cookie.

Here they're all packed in for a tractor ride.

The weather was beautiful. It was hot for them, but cooler for us. The breeze was wonderful.

They had a Jeep! Judah had a grin the entire time he was on it.

Well, not the entire time. When the battery ran out, it was a sad moment...

Aunt Nancy hooked up the sprinkler for the kids at the tree swing.

How many great-aunts do you know who would run in the sprinkler with them? It didn't take them long to think she's great.

At the end of the first evening, the kids went and sat by the field while Uncle Steve lit some fireworks. "We've never had fireworks like these", Josh says. The boys weren't sure what could be better.

Sophia's 10th Birthday Tea Party

2010-07-10T15:39:00.002-04:00

Sophia's 10th birthday has arrived, it is hard to believe! We had so much fun planning her birthday party. She chose to do a Tea Party theme. I found some great ideas (much of it thanks to Aunt Ruth!) and the day turned out to be a lovely one.

After her 11 guests arrived, they each sat for a picture with the parasol in their finery.

Then, there was the group shot to be taken (Later, I emailed each family their photos).

Then they were escorted to the dining room which was decorated with tulle, candles and fine china.

They were told to use their lady-like manners as they were served their 6 course meal. The first one- the veggie tray. Of course all beautiful ladies eat their veggies...so no one could refuse.

After the first course the young ladies were read a story- Miss Spider's Tea Party. Each time the girls heard the word "spider", they were to make a scared sound and each time they heard the word "tea" they were to say "please" (the most enthusiastic one got a prize).

The next 'course' were the assorted cheese and crackers. After this course the girls played a game where they tried to throw the mini marshmallows in the tea cups.

The next course were the sandwiches. There were heart shaped egg salad sandwiches, peanut butter and jelly ones and mini cheeseburgers. After this course the girls played a word game to see who could come up with the most words from : Sophia's Tea Parlor in 2 minutes.

The next course were the fruits. Berries were made into kabobs on jeweled toothpicks. The game following was 'Pin the Lid on the Teapot'.

The final course served inside were the sweets- chocolate covered strawberries, lemon squares, yogurt covered pretzels and homemade butter mints were served.

The girls ended their stay swimming in the pool. We served the cake outside while the girls made bracelets to take home as their gift.

It was a delightful day and I know Sophie was so thankful her friends could celebrate this day with her!

Beautiful Girlhood

2010-06-26T08:14:00.004-04:00

Sophie attended a Beautiful Girlhood Camp this week. She just LOVED it. Miss Betsy taught them how to make: books, hats, bread, dolls and more. It was a delight and I was thrilled Sophie could see such a wonderful, godly example of a young woman (who's even more dear to me since I found out she just recently graduated from my alma mater). Thank you Miss Betsy!

Josh turns 6

2010-06-18T09:19:00.002-04:00

Josh is my planner. This year, he began the countdown for his birthday early. When I asked what he'd like to do for his birthday, he said he'd love a swimming/Super Mario party. And he'd like to share his cake with Gracie.

Josh loves boxes for organizing. So his daddy this year gave him a swiss army knife and his grandma gave him a wooden box with a key to keep it safe. He was beside himself!

Gracie is one of his best buddies. Their birthdays are 3 days apart. Gracie turns 7 this year. She was thrilled with sharing a cake too.

I found this cute Mario Cake idea here.

We're thankful for these two and love them very much.

Happy Birthday!!

The Hand That Paints the Sky

2010-06-17T21:08:00.000-04:00

The hand that created living things

and made the birds to fly,

is the hand of the Creator,

The hand that paints the sky.

The hand that wove the clouds from air,

and brightens the sun up high,

was made from our Creator,

with the hand that paints the sky.

That hand made all furry friends,

and such squirrels, soft and shy,

was from the hand, the same hand

That paints the sky.

The hand comes from our Creator,

Who made you and I ,

the Creator owns that creative hand,

The hand that paints the sky.

by Sophia

age 9

There and Back to the Beach Again

2010-06-06T22:05:00.033-04:00

Deciding to give Hilton Head another go with these dear friends, we set out this time with 2 teenagers added to the mix. Leah rode in our car and put up with Judah's chatter during the long car ride.

As we were arriving our destination, it was raining! OH no! Last year we hit Hilton Head on a week with record low in temperatures along with rain. Was this to be a repeat from last year?

As soon as we turned down 'our' street, it was SUNNY!

We made it!

It was a BEAUTIFUL week.

We enjoyed exploring sea critters all week.

One evening on our midnight walk, the four of us were able to see a Loggerhead Sea Turtle laying her eggs on the beach.

These were the tracks. The pictures don't accurately describe the beauty of them (or the size!)...

By the time I came back with my camera and some of the kids, there were people 'watching' over the turtle. I believe they were waiting until the beach authorities came to officially protect this endangered species. They were a little tense with me and my camera but I rebelled and got a picture anyway. I wish again the picture could show how large this turtle was. She was at least 4x the size of this visitor we had recently in our back yard. Watching her big flapper feet scoop out the sand for her nest was an amazing sight to see.

Making this a homeschooling experience, we went back to our cabin and googled Loggerhead Sea Turtles. We found out they just leave their little eggs to hatch on their own. 60-90 days later the hatchlings use the moon to guide them to the sea and they swim away. I guess Finding Nemo had it wrong! It was because of this, however, people would get fined if they left their outside lights on at the beach during hatching season. They didn't want the little guys to get confused.

The next morning we biked to where she was and found this:

The dads and kids made a fancy sandcastle almost every day. It was fun to see their creativity and intensity building it. Then, we had to 'take a picture-quick' before the tide would wash it away that evening.

We rented two bikes for the week. We all agreed it was worth the purchase. It was wonderful to explore the island this way. Because the beaches were firm enough, everyone rides their bikes on the beach too. Pictured below, we're riding near a march where hundreds of little holes are everywhere in the sand.

When we rode across, many little crabs scurried into their homes.

The boys had one afternoon of put put golf, while the girls hit some local shops.

Here are the girls and their matching jammies:

Usually I'm carrying the camera around, so we usually don't have as many pictures including myself. This week however, we were able to get several. Leah blessed us using her creative capabilities and captured several family photos of us.

We had a few evenings where just the four of us went out. We had a wonderful time as usual. One evening we went to the point where the lighthouse is located.

Like last year, we went to the Crown Plaza to their great seafood buffet.

After dinner, we walked behind the restaurant onto the beach. Since this was the last evening before we had to leave, we were trying to decide what we should do. Holly and I wanted to go for a walk along the beach and the guys wanted to go back and start packing, so they took our shoes and purses and drove back. We could see our house way down the shoreline, so we started walking. We had a great time, there's always great conversation with my friend. However, we were both wanting to get to the 'stream' before it got dark. Let me explain. Just northwest of our house there is a marsh and when there was a high tide the ocean connected to this and therefore creating a stream people waded through to get to to the shoreline on the other side. Earlier that day, Holly had walked across it and it was about ankle deep or so.

Back to our late night walk...

So the sun had set and all week there had been a full moon approaching, but the moon had not appeared yet. So it was dark and we still had not reached this stream part yet. We finally came to it and thought it wasn't a good sign that no one was crossing- the several people that were walking that night were all turning around and walking back. We approached and couldn't believe the once stream was now a gulf. We decided to brave it. We hiked up our dresses (too dark for anyone to see much, thank goodness) and started wading across. Holly couldn't believe how big this area had grown from that afternoon--it was now about half a football field in length. We weren't halfway, when we knew it was deeper then we thought-- we were waist deep already and it was dropping fast. There was a bit of a current and the waves were fairly strong. Did I mention- we couldn't see much? So do we turn around and walk the 45 minute trek back to the restaurant to call the guys? But our house was RIGHT there... once we got past this LAKE. We went for it and just started swimming towards the other side. I was just hoping, hoping not to spot- or feel- any sea critters (there were tons of jellyfish, some sting rays we say daily and even an alligator was spotted the day before). As we scrambled up the rocks at our destination I say, "Thank goodness there were no critters!!" Holly screams, "CRITTERS!!! I didn't even think about CRITTERS!!" We laughed the rest of the way home-just glad we made it.

The guys, needless to say, were surprised to see us returning, thoroughly drenched.

On our return trip we stopped in Chattanooga at Holly's hometown. It was wonderful to see where she grew up. Her view from her house, as a girl, was Lookout Mountain. We spent the afternoon in the park there and enjoyed the view.

It was here that Micah borrowed the camera to take some shots when, oops, he tripped on one of the steps and smashed the camera. The bright side was it was the last day of the vacation.

We are so thankful for this wonderful trip, great company and experiencing God's beautiful creation.

Psalm 9

1 I will praise You, O LORD, with my whole heart;
I will tell of all Your marvelous works.
2 I will be glad and rejoice in You;
I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High.

In Times of Trouble

2010-06-01T09:46:00.000-04:00

I was encouraged reading this post this morning from A Disciples Notebook:

God’s trusting child may say in times of trouble:

FIRST: He brought me here; it is by His will I am in this strait place: in that will I rest.
NEXT: He will keep me here in His love, and give me grace in this trial to behave as His child.
THEN: He will make the trial a blessing, teaching me the lessons He intends me to learn, and working in me the grace He means to bestow.
LAST: In His good time He can bring me out again—how and when He knows.
Say: I am here—
(1) By God’s appointment.
(2) In His keeping.
(3) Under His training.
(4) For His time.
Andrew Murray (1828-1917)
~~~
And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you; and you shall glorify me.
Psalm 50:15 (ESV)
~~~
“Little daily worries are heaven-sent messengers to help you on the way home. What would you think of a sailor complaining of the wind that bears him homeward? A day spent among these worries is a day in God’s school. One might say that the way to make the best of them is to make the least of them.”
Andrew Bonar (1810-1892)

Visit to Madison

2010-05-15T22:39:00.002-04:00

Today I went for a day with some friends to Madison, Indiana. I had a wonderful time seeing the cute shops, gardens and the architecture.

I especially loved the trees.

We had a good time while getting some good ideas.

I'll have to take mom there someday. It was a lovely day trip.

Littlest Cousin

2010-05-14T22:21:00.000-04:00

My sister Amy and little Elena came for a visit today. She's 7 months old now and soooo big since the kids saw her last. Let's just say she wasn't spoiled in the least...

Happy Birthday, Judah!

2010-05-13T23:29:00.001-04:00

Wow. My baby is 2 already. What a fun age it is, though. He had two celebrations this week: one on his birthday(the 13th) at home and one at Nena and Papa's on Sunday.

From the beginning, we've chosen not have big to-do's about birthdays. Our general house rule is every 5 years they can have a big party with friends. On the 'off years' we enjoy our small parties of cake and simple gifts, usually with just the family. Since Judah is just two, and we don't need a single other toy in the house , the big gift this year from us was a toothbrush. Believe it or not, once he finished stuffing down his breakfast cinnamon roll (also a birthday tradition around here), he was so excited to see his own toothbrush, he yelled, "TEETH!!!"

We can't imagine life without this little guy. He is such a delight and a treasure.

Happy Birthday, Samantha!

2010-05-09T07:18:00.008-04:00

Today, on Mother's Day, is Samantha's Birthday. She would have been 3 years old today.

A sweet friend called me a couple of days prior, to see if it was o.k. to bake a pink cake in honor of her. She gently reminded me to not ignore her birthday, but allow it to be the time to remind the kids the happy memories.

She knew. I was holding my breath, waiting for it to pass, so as not to let it hurt so much. All the time thinking, 'next year' will be easier. It never is. So my tears came that day, but not on Sunday. I wanted the kids to see me joyfully celebrating her memory and being their mother.

What another great Mother's Day.

A Visit With Maddie

2010-05-04T22:56:00.000-04:00

Our friends came to visit us today. It was so fun to watch Judah and Maddie interact.

They enjoyed some popsicles.

Then Judah introduced her to the tire swing.

Come back and visit, soon!

The Sands of Time Are Sinking

2010-05-02T16:15:00.006-04:00

The sands of time are sinking, the dawn of heaven breaks,
the summer morn I've sighed for, the fair sweet morn awakes;
dark, dark hath been the midnight, but dayspring is at hand,
and glory, glory dwelleth in Emmanuel's land.

The King there in His beauty without a veil is seen;
it were a wellspend journey though sev'n deaths lay between:
the Lamb with His fair army doth on Mount Zion stand,
and glory, glory dwelleth in Emmanuel's land.

O Christ, He is the fountain, the deep sweet well of love!
The streams on earth I've tasted more deep I'll drink above:
there to an ocean fullness His mercy doth expand,
and glory, glory swelleth in Emmanuel's land.

The bride eyes not her garment, but her dear bridegroom's face;
I will not gaze at glory, but on my King of grace;
not at the crown He gifteth, but on His pierced hand:
the Lamb is all the glory of Emmanuel's land.

Anne Cousin, 1857

Our Last Week of Art Class

2010-05-01T15:19:00.002-04:00

The last art class of the season was this week. Our last project was using Prismacolor colored pencils. I taught them how to notice colors and mix them on top of each other to match. The assignment was to take a magazine picture, cut in it in half, then draw and color the other side trying to match as closely as possible.

My example:

Here are some of their works:

I was will miss my 16 students and hope that they will keep up the good work over the summer!

Trespasser

2010-04-06T08:21:00.002-04:00

I heard some very exciting screams from outside today:

"MOM!!! Come Look!! QUICK!!"

We've seen some turtles here and there, but this?!?!

He was HUGE.

We ran inside and 'googled' it and were able to confirm it is a snapping turtle...as big as they get. One of their defenses is to raise up their back end to use their pointy shell as a weapon.

It is not the prettiest creature indeed...but pretty cool to see wandering in the back yard, nonetheless.

Goodbye

2010-04-02T08:14:00.000-04:00

1 Corinthians 15:50-58

50Now this I say, brethen, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed--52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: "Death is swallowed up in victory?" 56 The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethern, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

Mrs. Hannah Dugan passed away this morning, on Good Friday. While I'm celebrating her life and her first day in heaven today, I'm praying for Mr. Dugan and family.

Spring Break

2010-03-30T07:52:00.001-04:00

During our Spring Break, the kids and I decided to head North to my parents home in Michigan. It's the first time I've taken 4 kids by myself on the 18 hr. car ride. I was a little nervous during the hotel stay half way, but am thankful to report it went just fine. It helped that Josh can swim now so the pool time was a blast.

We had so much fun. There were 'road trips' to Millersburg and Gaylord for pizza and ice cream.

Mema and Sophie decided to take on a sewing project together. Since sewing isn't my forte', I'm thankful that both grandmas are talented in that department! Sophie loves to sew.

This was one of the few times in March where there was no snow. So, it was chilly, but we were able to take our bikes to the beach (and see the ice floating in the water).

My hometown feels like something from the Mitford Series. Friends randomly knocking to say 'hello', just in time for tea.

The kids also experienced a bit of 'Little House on the Prairie'. Our good friends, the Tollys, make their own maple syrup and this happened to be the week they were making it. We were thrilled to see the process and make it a home schooling experience.

One of the main reasons I wanted to come 'home' was to visit my close friends, the Dugans. Mrs. Dugan's health has failed rapidly. They have always been like a second set of parents to me. They have been involved in my life since I was in Jr. High. They've been so instrumental in my Christian faith. They've watched me go through the growing up struggles and have put several boyfriends on the 'hot seat'. I fondly remember stopping by their house many times and having good talks with them in their living room. Being a Hillsdale graduate and advocate, they were the reason I chose to go to Hillsdale College. They met and 'approved' Jonathan when we dated and were engaged in college. And just like Mrs. and Mr. Dugan, we were married during college at a fairly young age. At our wedding, Mr. Dugan wore a tux because he was the 'other father'. When we were newlyweds and broke, Mr. and Mrs. D would drive down for a visit and take us out to dinner and we felt like royalty. Their generosity and example have shaped our lives. As time marched on and our family grew, their love was constant. Mrs. Dugan was one of the few people who held Samantha. This photo was taken a month before Samantha died.

Mrs. Dugan's illness has been hard on all of us. The week was filled with joy but was also filled with many, many tears. Mrs. Dugan is in the nursing home now and appears to be at the final stage of the disease. Mr. Dugan's constant, tender love towards her continued to be an amazing testimony through 'the end', literally, when Mrs. Dugan was clearly not there anymore (in spirit). I'm so thankful to have this memory to share again and again with my children an example of a successful marriage where Christ is the center. Mr. Dugan is as tired and weary as a normal person would be, but he is a living example of how to 'praise Him still'.

The Lord Saves

2010-03-22T10:47:00.003-04:00

I don't know this girl, but I shed tears as her testimony rang true to my heart. Praising God for His salvation offered to all!

Hailstorm

2010-03-12T15:48:00.001-05:00

We had a hailstorm today. We had temperatures of 65-- so it was most peculiar. It was beautiful, though.

We saved some in a cup and put it in the freezer for Daddy to see when he got home.

Busy. Busy.

2010-03-11T15:40:00.000-05:00

My 8 Year Old

2010-02-19T15:10:00.003-05:00

Micah's favorite: Chocolate with Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

Micah started playing cello this year

I can't believe that Micah John turned 8 today. I was reading some old journal entries about funny things the kids have done and I smiled at this entry written 3 years ago when Micah was 5:

...Micah wanted this privilege. I said, " I don't know...it wasn't good at all how you treated your brother today in the car. Did you learn your lesson? "
Micah said, " Yes."
"What was it?", I asked.
He hummed the tune, with all seriousness, to 'Old McDonald Had a Farm'. Then said, "I played all of it, Mom!!"

It took me a second to realize he thought I was asking about his piano lesson.

We are so proud of this little man and so happy he is a part of our life!

Sledding with friends

2010-02-17T15:01:00.001-05:00

Getting Cozy

2010-02-16T08:31:00.000-05:00

We've had the most snow I've ever remembered here in Kentucky. 24 inches. I just looked it up and found, it indeed is a record- we haven't had this much in February since 1914. I'm from Michigan, so I don't mind it a bit. If it's going to be cold anyway, we might as well be covered in snow. It is so much prettier to look at! However, people tend to panic around here when it comes to snow, so it's a bit interesting. And good luck getting out of our driveway, let alone hilly, windy back roads to get to town!

So we'll put on the hot water for hot chocolate and tea and press on with school. No snow days for the homeschoolers! I'm so mean. Of course, they will be playing in the snow today, though.

My handsome hubby and I just finished watching the new Emma this Valentine's weekend. I am such a Jane Austen fan. Emma, shamefully, is the only book of hers I read so far! I need to get on that, I know. We watched the 3 Episodes on www.pbs.com. I highly recommend it! I've been repeating one of my favorite lines, "Badly done, Emma! Badly done!" in my attempt of a British accent these past couple of days.

Valentines

2010-02-14T08:14:00.000-05:00

Jesus Lover of my Soul

Jesus, Lover of my soul, Let me to thy bosom fly,

While the nearer waters roll, While the tempest still is high;

Hide me, O my Savior, hide, Till the storm of life is past;

Safe into the haven guide; O receive my soul at last!

Other refuge have I none; Hangs my helpless soul on Thee;

Leave, ah! leave me not alone, Still support and comfort me.

All my trust on Thee is stayed, All my help from Thee I bring;

Cover my defenseless head With the shadow of Thy wing.

Thou, O Christ, art all I want; More than all in Thee I find;

Raise the fallen, cheer the faint, Heal the sick and lead the blind.

Just and holy is Thy name, I am all unrighteousness;

False and full of sin I am, Thou art full of truth and grace.

Plenteous grace with Thee is found, Grace to cover all my sin;

Let the healing streams abound; Make and keep me pure within.

Thou of life the fountain art, Freely let me take of Thee;

Spring Thou up within my heart, Rise to all eternity.

Sophie's First Concert

2010-02-10T13:43:00.001-05:00

We braved the snow this weekend and made it to the Cincinnati Suzuki Concert. This was Sophie's first time playing in something like this before. There were around 100 students that played. I'm thankful she could participate in this orchestra-like experience.

Snowed In...

2010-02-10T13:35:00.000-05:00

and loving it!!

cute alphabet letters

2010-01-25T19:07:00.000-05:00

My sister passed this idea along to me. Great idea for those who like to sew!

A Photo Shoot Attempt

2010-01-21T16:49:00.000-05:00

I thought it would be cute to get a picture of the matching boys...

Real quick, before naptime...

Ok, ok, nevermind. Go back to wrestling...

Naptime, it is...

Bright Pink Envelopes

2010-01-04T20:34:00.000-05:00

After asked to sit down on the couch, I was presented with two pink envelopes from my 9 year old and 7 year old.

In it were two poems:

Happy Birthday Mama!
Have a Happy Birthday in this wonderful New Year.
We love you Mama.
Roses are red Violets are blue
and that is why we love you!!!

Love, Micah.

The other one read:

Happy Birthday Mama!

Happy Birthday Mama!
May, it bring joy to you,
You've been a great parent,
and make us glad too.

Your kindness and faithfulness
and being so smart,
Brings us to know,
You're a work of art!

If it weren't for you, we would be oh, so sad!
But now that you're here,
we're extremely glad.

Years have grown so fast,
so have you,
and surprisingly now,
you're at the age
thirty-two!

We each have something special,
We're sure you'll love it!
It's the best we can give,
and it's small, I admit.

We each have a birthday envelope,
with your present in it too,
Happy Birthday, Mama! We love you!

Love, Sophia

(Enclosed was a lovely, homemade pot holder!)

Josh, my 5 year old, said because it was my birthday, he would make a tent out of a sheet (draped over the floor vent to 'poof it out').

As the day progressed I laughed at how requests had a different twist to them. "Mom, since it's your birthday, can I...?"

A birthday can't get much better than this!

11 years

2010-01-02T09:21:00.000-05:00

I was 20 (turning 21 two days later) when I married him 11 years ago. It was in the middle of our Junior Year at Hillsdale College. We were paupers. But we were happy. We saw examples of good, generous people from the beginning- people we wanted to emulate someday. We took the first job we could get a year and a half later to support the new baby on the way. In 11 years we've moved 7 times and had 5 children. We've experienced the joys of parenting, traveling worldwide together, job promotions and gaining priceless friends over the years. However, it was the struggles of living through very difficult conflicts and a death of our child that I see God's grace so visibly orchestrating. I'm glad I have him to go through life with. God is merciful. God is soo good. I'm thankful for him.

Break

2009-12-10T21:58:00.000-05:00

Well, I have some catching up to do here.

I now have a little more time.

Last week Classical Conversations finished for the year. My class dressed up like Pilgrims and Indians.

Then this past weekend, my friend from college, Sarah stayed with us. I'm sure her single life at home is a much more peaceful environment. She was very patient, though, and endured all sorts of performances and interruptions. But, the climax was when Judah got the flu and threw up all over the place. Sarah got to experience what life is more like than not here, I'm afraid: Craziness!

We couldn't help but laugh how much Judah liked his breakfast.

Ratz.

Maybe if Sarah visited again in the summer it would be less chaotic? Probably not. She was kind to put up with us, anyway!

Drawing Classes

2009-10-13T08:05:00.001-04:00

This fall I've started teaching Drawing Class again. It's been two and half years since I've taught so it has been fun getting back into it. I have 21 students come to my home (2 seperate classes). They're learning the concepts of drawing and this week we're talking about shading. Here is a sample of a great exercise on shading I found for anyone out there who wants to 'sharpen' their shading skills.

Pencil Shading Exercise

Graduated Tone
Graduated tone can be used to create the illusion of space and form in a drawing. It is a very useful skill to develop.
Use a B, 2B, or darher grade of pencil for your shading. Lighter grades (H, 2H etc.) will not give enough depth to your darkest tones.
Just start by shading the area you wish to be dark and slowly build up the tone. As you work towards the light, gradually ease the pressure on your pencil until you can no longer see it. You then patiently repeat this process, building a depth to the shading and trying to keep the tonal changes as smooth as possible until you achieve the intensity of tone that you desire.

found here

A New Niece

2009-10-05T13:10:00.000-04:00

We have a new niece!

My sister, Amy and her husband Michael just had their first baby:

Elena Elizabeth
born on September 21,2009
9 lbs 7.5 oz. , 21.5 " long

(As I'm typing this, Micah looks at her picture over my shoulder and whispers, "She's a little princess...)

Psalm 145: 21 My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise His holy name for ever and ever.

Micah starts Karate!!

2009-10-04T13:06:00.000-04:00

Catching Up

2009-09-28T08:27:00.000-04:00

Things have been much too busy around here. I had too many great photos to ignore August completely, so I've posted it a tad earlier here. We'll see if I can catch up sometime soon.

Thankful for You

2009-09-18T21:53:00.000-04:00

In the midst of the whirlwind, time stopped today for a while. Today marks the 2nd year that Samantha is in heaven. The kids and I went to the cemetary with some flowers. It is about a 20 minute drive, so there was time for good conversation. The kids wanted me to tell her story again. We recalled some memories and I tried to answer the many, many questions about why she died. Josh, who was 3 when she died, had the most questions. " I just wish she could come back so I can play with her", he said. The kids also had so many questions about heaven. I answered them as best I could (If God thinks it's important, He will definitely have teddy bears for her to play with in heaven, Josh). But most of all, I was encouraged at this opportunity to share with my kids the importance of life, living the best for the Lord, for our days are certainly numbered. It was a wonderful opportunity to share the gospel again and to beg for God's help and salvation for them.

Our conversations are not saturated about Samantha on a daily basis by all means. Even this day, I tried to talk about her with the kids only on the way to and back from the cemetary. It just seems so heavy for them to bear very long. As for me, however, as a mom, I'm thankful that this day particularly, I can think about her all day and watch the video again of her sweet little moment of smiles (maybe some day I can figure out a way to post this short clip).

Lastly, with time going on, I didn't expect people to actually remember this particular date, as I do. Personally, dates are not the sort of things I'm good at remembering. I was overwhelmed with thankfulness for the sweet short emails , calls and even a rose bush hand delivered in memory of Samantha. I really couldn't ask for better friends. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Up North

2009-08-21T08:25:00.002-04:00

We just got back from a two week vacation- last one of the summer. I know I've said it a hundred times already, but summer just seems to go way to fast. It seems to get faster each year.

Anyway, we started our trip in Milwaukee, where my husband has been going frequently for work lately. We were excited, however, because my cousins live there and my aunts live nearby so we scheduled to see them all. Little Gracie, whom we've never met, was quite the hostess. I'm sure she was surprised to see 4 kid's bombarding her backyard, but she was a good sport. Aunt Nancy came from the farm by bus to see us. She brought supper for us-straight from the farm: delicious hamburger and steaks and garden fresh vegetables AND her well-loved Oreo dessert that she has made for many a Thanksgivings. What a cook! We had a delightful evening.

The next morning the kids and I had breakfast with Aunt Ruth and Uncle Jim (and Aunt Nancy) from Green Bay. They were on their way to Michigan the following week so we were going to be able to see them again in a few days.

After Milwaukee, we started heading to my hometown - to Mema and Grandpa's. My (9 month pregnant) sister and her husband were there, near the end of their visit. Since Amy lives 45 minutes from me, we have never been to our folks parents the same time, since she's been married. We had dinner together and then checked out the last day of the Nautical Festival. Perfect timing! It had only a few hours left and it would be packed up and gone the next morning, so we let the kids pick out 3 rides and that was it. To end the fun evening we watched fireworks on the beach.

The week always goes by way too fast. I wish I could capture the smells of the lake, the pine and cedar, and bring them home with me. We did a lot of biking on the trails and swimming in the lake. We went boating, picnicking and star gazing too! We simply can't see all those stars at home... they were breathtaking! Aunt Ruth, mom and I one evening dragged a few blankets and pillows to the beach and lay on the sand dunes until midnight counting all the 'falling stars'. Our week also included parks (even exploring the new quarry pile where the kids can 'dig' for fossils), going out to the State Park to visit friends, trying out a new archery set we found at a garage sale .

Mom had a fun project for us to make. She brought down all her jars of buttons and we made bracelets. She got the idea from another aunt of mine and we had so much fun sewing the buttons on to elastic strips.

We were able to spend a couple of days with my favorite Mr. and Mrs. D. They are my 'second parents from home'. This was to be there last summer in RC since Mrs. D has been altered with her Alzheimer's, of late. It was extremely hard for me to say my goodbyes. Going home to visit will not be the same anymore. We love them so much and it's hard to see people we love get old! Makes us look heavenward...

Heading home, we stopped at a hotel we particularly like in Southern Michigan. I couldn't help but remember that the last time we were there we had 4 kids as well, but it was Sophia, Micah, Joshua and Samantha.

This time there was a slightly different mix of children: Sophia, Micah, Joshua and Judah.

Rapping up the trip, we headed home. As always, it's good to come home too.

Sophie's poem

2009-07-20T08:25:00.000-04:00

My Happy Nine Golden Years
by Sophia

When I was born,
and first opened my eyes,
I was my parents
first surprise!
When I was 1,
I played and hid,
I crawled and rolled,
and slept, I did.
When I was 2,
My! Was I funny!
I believed in magic,
and the Easter bunny.
When I was 3,
I started to talk,
I could run, at last, laugh and walk.
When I was 4
I was finally me,
as everyone, is you see.
When I was 5
I had huge fun,
to my birthday, I invited everyone.
When I was 6
I still was excited,
I read, I spoke, I ran, I writed.
When I was 7,
I loved my age,
I think I loved to draw,
a picture on every page.
As I am 8,
I'm contently glad,
for I have no reason to be sad.
When I am 9,
When ten nears,
for then I'll remember
my happy golden years.

July...

2009-07-19T20:46:00.000-04:00

Is going by in a blink, so I'm trying to catch and write down some of the moments before August arrives!

We started this month, with a trip to Southern Michigan, where my sister-in-law lives (my husband's sister) along with her husband, Jordan and two children. Their second girl was born in March. We had not met her yet, so we (Sophie, Judah and I) jumped in the car with Nena (my mother-in-law) and Aunt Stephanie (my husband's other sister) to meet her.

This is their backyard view...

They were planning for a very large (around 60 people) Fourth of July party. We helped set up and decorate.

There were 26 pounds of pork loin prepared for pulled pork sandwiches.

The master of ceremonies (Jordan) is a patriot, to say the least. The festivities were amazing. He had mazes set up, canoe races, sack races, paint-ball the redcoat contests, you name it. Also if you can guess the number of vintage bullets in the jar you can take this 'Don't Tread on Me' flag home.

The grand finale of the evening was a canon shot, that fired a firework, into the awaiting bonfire stick pile that ignited into flames. It was a hit.

div>

The day we departed was Sophie's 9th birthday! This was my grand finale. I'm so glad she's a part of my life.

Can it Be? Josh is 5.

2009-06-30T08:38:00.000-04:00

Josh turned 5 this week when I almost wasn't looking!

We decided long ago to have the 'big' birthday parties (meaning more than one kid invited) every five years. Just too much work and too many kids! So... this was Josh's Big One this year.

He chose to have a Swimming Pool Party.

He invited 4 families (when you home school they come as an unit). So total, there were 15 children.

We had a hot dog cookout for lunch and then it was pool time.

Don't forget the cake!

Happy Birthday Joshies!

Intriguing

2009-06-25T12:22:00.001-04:00

So a friend emailed me this recipe for making your own laundry soap... has anyone done this before? I'm very curious...

Ephesians 5: 8, 14

2009-06-22T12:49:00.000-04:00

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord... Therefore He says:

“ Awake, you who sleep,
Arise from the dead,
And Christ will give you light.”

Highlights and Lowlights of the Summer

2009-06-22T08:25:00.000-04:00

The summer has come fast and furious and I'm trying to enjoy it as much as possible as it already seems like it's already over! Here are some highlights and lowlights so far:

Highlights:

My parent's came for a visit and the kids loved their time once again with them. My mother's ability to never stop loving on the kids while still managing to clean my house amazes me. I don't ask, she just does.

They watched the kids while my husband took me one evening to a rock concert. We had a great time. Just to go somewhere together without kids sometimes is such a treat!

During their stay I also attended a 3 day Practicum for Classical Conversations. I've decided to be a tutor this year. The conference was very exciting as it reminded me our home school goals and how to strive for excellence in this Classical way. It was exhausting. Including travel time it was from 8-5 and I came home admiring all the working mother's in this world wondering how they do it!!

We have so enjoyed our pool. We put an above-ground pool in our back yard last year ( an Esther Williams from Craigslist!) and have soo enjoyed it in this hot hot weather lately.

My handsome hubby has been given a great compliment at work. I'm so proud of him and know that he is such an excellent man. In this economic struggle I know that we all hold things loosely, yet I want to pause to be thankful what we do have, knowing that can all change momentarily.

Some lowlights:

Weaning Judah. I had such a hard time with this! I know it seems silly to many, but since Samantha, I cherish each stage more and therefore that finality of this baby stage was difficult! I cried for a week but he did just fine.

Kid's waking up in the morning covered with bug bites. In our wooded lot with all the rain breeds many mosquitoes. Poor Judah, swells up so it looks like a ping pong ball is under his skin. Learning more about bug sprays and using mouthwash as a spray...?

Bunnies eating my strawberry plants. Peter and Benjamin are losing their cuteness in my eyes fairly quickly!

My 'second parents' from home are struggling. This fine couple was such a great part of my growing up years. They encouraged me in Christ in so many ways. They introduced me to Hillsdale College, where I attended, graduated and even got married from. She is struggling with Alzheimers and it's breaking our heart. Realizing the need to get up there to Michigan to say our goodbyes has been very difficult.

Beachtime

2009-06-12T10:35:00.000-04:00

Our trip this year with these dear friends, was to the deep South this time...to their territory. We had a wonderful week at Hilton Head enjoying life on the beach.

The first two days were sunny and bright. The colors were brilliant and the flowers were amazing. The trees, however, were my personal favorites.

On day three, the rain began and the temperatures dropped. But the beauty never left.

Keeping the kid's busy with walks in the rain, trips to the park and indoor activities, we kept the fun rolling. Well, perhaps ALL was not fun for them. We kept them busy with a few chores too...

The last day was sunny and bright and almost everyone got sunburned. We went home thankful for such great friends and hope for more opportunities of memories with them!

How To ... by Sophia

2009-06-04T08:33:00.000-04:00

(I found this on Soph's stack of writings, too funny not to post!)

How To Be a Friend
by Sophia age 8

When a friend comes over
For play, talk or tea,
Be careful with your manners,
Be the best friend as can be.

When two friends come over,
Don't run, yell, or shout,
This is politeness, friends,
And don't leave one friend out.

When three people visit,
Now this is a challenging quiz!
If they are badly rude,
Show them what a polite friend is.

Now, when four people visit,
My, what challanging fun!
Now don't pick a favorite,
Include everyone!

When five people visit,
And three ask one rude question,
If it's rude, change the subject,
(Even though you might have a suggestion).

Judah's One!

2009-05-13T08:53:00.000-04:00

Judah's birthday is today!

We celebrated on Monday eve. We drove over to Nena and Papa's (a 20 min. drive)

and enjoyed some fajitas and then birthday cake!

I think he liked it.

On the car ride home, we all sang to 'Hey Jude'.

Happy Birthday, Judah James!

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T22:34:00.000-04:00

We had a great day. Missing handsome hubby (who has been gone for the past several days on business), made Mother's Day not quite the same, but I was treated royally by my little ones.

While baby took a nap, I enjoyed working in the garden all day. Then Sophie directed me to a spot in the front yard. Here she had been working hard too. To my astonishment I find:

a chair to rest

muffin and ice water to enjoy

bouquet of flowers to hold

basin of water and lotion for my feet

and a handmade umbrella to give me shade.

What a special Mother's Day. I am truly blessed.

Looking Heavenward

2009-05-09T22:15:00.000-04:00

Today is Samantha's birthday. I stayed busy today, purposefully, trying to ignore that lingering lump in the throat. She would have been 2 years old today. The ache of the mother's heart doesn't go away. When I miss her the most, I think how wonderful it is that I know where she is. I didn't 'lose' a baby. She is with the merciful Saviour.

I once scorned ev'ry fearful thought of death,
When it was but the end of pulse and breath,
But now my eyes have seen that past the pain
There is a world that's waiting to be claimed.
Earthmaker, Holy, let me now depart,
For living's such a temporary art.
And dying is but getting dressed for God,
Our graves are merely doorways cut in sod.

Calvin Miller, The Divine Symphony (Minneapolis: Bethany, 2000),

The Zoo

2009-05-07T09:15:00.000-04:00

Deciding to go to the zoo one more time before our membership expired, we headed of on a cloudy Tuesday. It was warm but it rained off and on all day. What a great time to go! We had it practically to ourselves. I resolved to go on more days like this.

Opening the Windows

2009-04-24T16:07:00.001-04:00

We've had quite the week.

Beginning with:

a double ear infection

a sprained ankle,

croup,

and the flu,

swarming through the house,

We gladly welcomed the beautiful sunny 80 degree weather.

And ate breakfast outside this morning.

Celebrating the big 33

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

My Handsome Hubby had a birthday this weekend...

And the kids were so excited that they kept this secret...

Sophia saved her earnings (which includes teaching Josh piano for a quarter a day) and bought her dad a rake and Mint Medley (the Bigelow tea).

And the boys didn't slip...Amazing!

(In case you were wondering, she hid it in her closet.)

We sure do love this man.

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-17T08:26:00.000-04:00

The Light

2009-04-10T08:24:00.000-04:00

And Jesus said...

I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness.

John 12:46

Little Eggsessive

2009-04-09T08:38:00.001-04:00

We are enjoying our spring break. There is nothing pressing on the agenda...love that. We have a few egg projects going on around here.

I enjoy pulling out my saved favorite dyed eggs from the previous years (blown, of course!).

Sophie decorated the tree.

For the last several weeks, this great idea has been circulating. So a couple of weeks ago, we each picked out our favorite seeds. Sophia picked out sweet peas. Micah picked out sunflowers. Josh picked pumpkin seeds and I (love my) zinnias. I was hoping they would be sprouting by Easter, but no sign yet. We are responsible for taking care of our own seeds (so I'm hoping this will be good practice for our garden this summer).

The kids helped me fill the eggs for the big Easter Egg Hunt Saturday. This time we're going to color code the eggs for the little ones so that they won't be left out.
Wanting to make some sugar cookies but not having a egg cookie cutter, I just used half of a plastic egg and it worked very well.

Finally, here are Josh's favorite eggs. They are called Resurrection Eggs and they tell the Easter Story.

Dark Blue- Donkey Matthew 21:1-9

Light Pink- Coins Matthew 26:14-16, 46-50;27:1-5

Light purple- Cup Matthew 26:17-19, 26-28' Exodus 12:23

Orange- Praying hands Mark 14:32-42

Green- Leather John 19:1-15

Light Yellow- Crown Matthew 27:29-31

Yellow- Nails John 19:16-22

Light Green- Dice John 19:23-25

Purple- Spear John 19:31-37

Cream- Linen Matthew 27:57-61

Pink- Stone Matthew 28:1-3

Light Blue- Empty Matthew 28:5-8

Color

2009-04-06T09:55:00.000-04:00

As the lack of sun affects some near the end of winter, so does the lack of color for me. I get so excited to look out my window and see color. It raises my spirits.

Green never looks more brilliant and pastels more welcoming.

To bring the color in is just as exciting. I have wonderful little flower-pickers who enjoy it just as much as I do.

"You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you."
Nehemiah 9:6

Spring is Here

2009-03-28T07:35:00.000-04:00

Oh I do love the seasons. Spring has to be a favorite of everyone. It is so fun to walk out to the garden and see the flowers come peeking out. The proportion is hard to see, but these are my miniature daffodils planted in Samantha's garden. How welcoming they are!

And to my delight, the rhubarb made it! A friend gave some of hers that she had split and I wasn't sure if it made it through the crazy winter we've had. Isn't it lovely? This talented lady could do something with the rhubarb leaves... I just love them. They would be fantastic to imprint. One of these years I'll try it.

Happy Spring.

OAM cooking

2009-03-25T21:49:00.001-04:00

Lately I've been on a once a month theme. This week a couple of my friends and I did some once a month cooking. They arrived at 1 and left around 4:30 and we had 12 meals to put in the freezer. This was our menu:

chicken and rice casserole
Mexican style macaroni
meatloaf
sloppy joes
chicken noodle soup
waffles

It was a great experience! We all had fun doing all the tedious chopping and mixing together and were glad to stock the freezer for the month.

He Did It!

2009-03-23T09:55:00.000-04:00

Without training wheels!

Hurray Josh!

So Big

2009-03-20T08:36:00.000-04:00

Our little man is getting so big. At 10 months old, he's still doing the army crawl but this week he started to push himself to a sitting position and he just started pulling himself up. Yesterday in his crib, he pulled himself up to a stand but cried and cried because he couldn't figure out how to sit down again. Too cute.

Here's a couple of photos of Judah from a photo shoot Sophie took recently trying to capture a picture of him standing up:

He has four mothers here during the day. Anytime there's a problem, everyone comes running to help. He is frequently called:

Judah

Judah James

Judah Jame(ers)

Jude

and (credited to Soph) his theme song: Zip-i-dee-Juu-dah

Last Egg Cracked

2009-03-17T08:54:00.000-04:00

Whew. We made it. I cracked my last egg yesterday. We've been trying to cut grocery costs by going once a month. This evening is my second, once-a-month shopping spree. I'm trying to pep-talk myself today. It's not the most fun experiences of mine (I try not to think about how many shopping carts will be filled). Yet it's good. With grocery prices rising and with the normal busyness of life, I found my spending way too high lately. Motivation from the sermon mentioned in this post and some of this family's practical advice, I hope to change my spending ways. I am not an organized person by nature, so this is good for me. Really good.

Hymn in my head today

2009-03-08T16:29:00.000-04:00

Jesus Lover Of My Soul

Jesus, lover of my soul, let me to Thy bosom fly,
While the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high.
Hide me, O my Savior, hide, till the storm of life is past;
Safe into the haven guide; O receive my soul at last.

Other refuge have I none, hangs my helpless soul on Thee;
Leave, ah! leave me not alone, still support and comfort me.
All my trust on Thee is stayed, all my help from Thee I bring;
Cover my defenseless head with the shadow of Thy wing.

Wilt Thou not regard my call? Wilt Thou not accept my prayer?
Lo! I sink, I faint, I fall - Lo! on Thee I cast my care;
Reach me out Thy gracious hand! While I of Thy strength receive,
Hoping against hope I stand, dying, and behold, I live.

Thou, O Christ, art all I want, more than all in Thee I find;
Raise the fallen, cheer the faint, heal the sick, and lead the blind.
Just and holy is Thy Name, I am all unrighteousness;
False and full of sin I am; Thou art full of truth and grace.

Plenteous grace with Thee is found, grace to cover all my sin;
Let the healing streams abound; make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art, freely let me take of Thee;
Spring Thou up within my heart; rise to all eternity.

Charles Wesley, 1740

Little Poet

2009-03-07T08:24:00.000-05:00

Remembrance

by Sophia Mary Age 8

Remember the blessings that God gave you
Remember remarkable as I go through
Remember a memory from long ago,
Remember a memory that you know!

Remember the valley that led up the hill,
Remember the milking pan that you did spill.
Remember the picnic with apples and grapes,
Remember the fruit pies, remember the drapes.

Remember the poem and remember me,
But speaking my future, I’m as happy as can be!

Good Questions

2009-03-03T09:43:00.000-05:00

Joshies, who is now 4 1/2, brought me Samantha's photo album along with many questions. It has been 18 months since Samantha died. But, for a 4 year old it, it seems like a decade. At 3, Josh didn't understand what was really going on. The first long car trip we took after she died, Josh asked if we were going to pick up Samantha. Now, as a 4 year old, he had questions:

How did she die?
Where was she when she died?
Did it hurt?
What was heaven like?

He looked at her pictures and said 'it's too far away...I don't remember what she looks like'. Then with tears pooling in his eyes he asked,

'But Mom, who's holding her in heaven?'

At that point I couldn't hold back the tears either.

But Jesus called for the children, saying, “Let the little children come to me and do not try to stop them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. "

Luke 18:16

Bread and Bars

2009-02-24T21:16:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been trying to find filling snacks for my kids' growing appetites. Here are two of our favorite recipes that I made this week that are healthy and filling and easy to make (thank you Ms. Kim):

Molasses Bread (Tasha Tudor's recipe):

2 c. oats

4 tsp. salt
1 c. molasses
1/4 c. butter

Throw together in large bowl. Then pour 4 c. boiling water over it. Let soak for 1 hr.

In 1 c. lukewarm water, stir in 4 1/2 tsp. of yeast in (then I sprinkle a little sugar on it and cover with saran wrap until nice and foamy- takes a couple of minutes).

Pour yeast mixture in big bowl mixture and mix in 9-10 cups of flour well. Knead for 8 min. Smooth into a big ball. Put a little oil in bowl and coat the dough on both sides and plop it back in the bowl. Take a clean dishtowel, put under hot tap water, wring out, put over bowl to add warmth and moisture. Let sit for 1 hour.

I cut my big ball into 4 large loaves. Put them in the greased bread pans. Let them sit an hour with the dishtowel trick over them again.

Preheat oven to 350. Bake for 45-60 min, depending on your pans you use.

This bread is delicious! Very moist inside and I love molasses so it was love at first bite.

Homemade Granola Bars

1 heaping cup of peanut butter
4 TB. oil
3/4 c. sugar
4 eggs
1 tsp. salt
4 tsp. vanilla

Mix all together well then add:

5 c. oatmeal
some chocolate chips or dried fruit or nuts

Bake in a 9x13 inch pan at 350 for 12 minutes. YUM!

How Sweet and Awful Is the Place

2009-02-22T15:30:00.000-05:00

How sweet and awful is the place

With Christ within the doors

While everlasting love displays

The choicest of her stores.

While all our hearts and all our songs

Join to admire the feast

Each of us cry with thankful tongues,

"Lord, why was I a guest?"

"Why was I made to hear thy voice

and enter while there's room,

When thousands make a wretched choice

And rather starve than come?"

'Twas the same love that spread the feast

that sweetly drew us in;

Else we had still refused to taste

and perished in our sin

Pity the nations, O our God,

Constrain the earth to come;

Send thy victorious Word abroad

and bring the strangers home.

We long to see thy churches full,

that all the chosen race

may with one voice and heart and soul

sing thy redeeming grace.

Issac Watts 1707

7 years ago

2009-02-19T22:27:00.000-05:00

This little man came into our life.

He was one of my biggest surprises in life: a Boy!

Happy Birthday Micah John!!

Red Envelope Project

2009-02-13T10:06:00.000-05:00

A friend just sent me an email mentioned from this red envelope idea.

Oh... My Heart...Part 2

2009-02-10T15:33:00.000-05:00

Today my heart is heavy because it seems all around me marriages of friends and well esteemed people are crumbling. Regardless of the reasons, divorce is often so painful for more than just the two people involved.

I am reminded to pray for my own marriage and to not take it for granted. Marriage is something to protect, build and work on continually.

Oh...my heart...Part 1

2009-02-10T15:18:00.001-05:00

I've had that sick feeling for the last couple of days. The kind when the heart hurts. Yesterday I was reading an article that stated:

Since 1973 when the Supreme Court legalized abortion, we have killed more than the entire population of Canada.

That's staggering to me. Perhaps it hits even closer to home because I have children of my own and I even had a baby die by natural causes. When Samantha died, I've had people question why I didn't have an abortion knowing her fatal outcome as a Trisomy 18 baby. Aside from knowing it would have been wrong to kill her in my womb, I cannot fathom not having the sweet memories of her. We would have missed her sweet sounds and smiles and we would never gotten to know her.

I look forward to help with this in some way. To the mom who's already experienced abortion, there is sweet forgiveness. To the mom considering an abortion, I pray that you will seek help and that we Christians will flock to them.

Joshie's Jammies

2009-02-04T09:12:00.000-05:00

Joshie's has a favorite pair of jammies, can you tell?

He really does own another pair. I don't understand how he can stand toes sticking out... but if he doesn't seem to mind, I'm trying not to either!

2009-02-01T18:21:00.000-05:00

I'm glad I'm not alone with snowshowers bringing a blunder or two.

Winter Wonderland

2009-02-01T07:21:00.000-05:00

Tuesday we were hit with an ice/snow storm. Because of our curvy, hilly country backroads, our road was one of the last to be plowed.

The trees were so pretty even though they have such a heavy burden to bear with all of the ice. All of the blue hues are delightful and the colors seem more brilliant.

Friday I decided to try to get out for some groceries. Driving down our driveway, I was mesmerized by the glittering beauty. I had to lean out the window and take a few pictures...

Oops. Slid off the driveway a little and couldn't get out. 5 hours later a tow truck came and pulled me out. Yes, out of my own driveway. So you can imagine the teasing I've had from my other half this weekend...