What It All Comes Down To...

Sarah

2010-12-06T09:49:00.000-08:00

After the storm

2010-08-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

Master Sarah

2010-04-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

Trouble. Real trouble

2010-04-27T14:36:00.000-07:00

2010-01-20T17:09:00.000-08:00

Here's the link to the "New" What it all comes down to.

http://whatitallcomesdownnto.wordpress.com/2010/01/20/what-every-11-year-old-boy-needs/

Pioneer Woman Cookbook--A Review

2010-01-05T08:26:00.000-08:00

Do you follow the Pioneer Woman? You should.

I've considered buying her cookbook, but the price is so high. However, I found the book at a used bookstore (already? it was just released!) this weekend and snatched it up. While you can find most of the recipes on the Pioneer Woman blog for free, I prefer having an actual book that I can hold in my hands. And set on the counter and get all covered with food while I'm cooking. Call me old-fashioned. Anyway, the photography in the book as well as the silly, little anecdotes make it so worth the price. The recipes are definitely not low-fat. They are hearty and homemade, easy to replicate using the great pictorials if necessary.

I think this cookbook will earn the place of honor (sitting on the counter) for quite a while this winter.

Also, if you look at the Pioneer Woman blog, be sure to check out her link to "Tasty Kitchen" if you're interested in finding lots of new recipes and cooking ideas submitted by other members.

11

2010-01-04T04:51:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Jack's birthday. I remember a few things about the night he was born. First, it went fast. I mean really, scary fast. Second, it was really cold. Third, Bill drove too fast on the way to the hospital (which in the end, was a good thing). Fourth, my favorite shoes were ruined when my water broke while walking into the hospital. Fifth, my Dr. was not wearing a silk shirt when he arrived to deliver this baby AND his hair was most definitely uncombed. Sixth, I remember the sunrise, while laying in my bed. Seventh, how glad and relieved I was when this baby was finally allowed to leave the NICU place and join me in our room.

Jack is a tender-hearted boy, always considering the possibilities in life. He's a planner and likes to be sure those around him know this. He is aware of the underdog and is mindful of this. A superb builder and inventor, Jack always has a project going somewhere. Hard work makes him most happy--cutting wood, raking leaves, digging holes, or weed-whacking.

Happy Birthday, J.!

Blowing out the candles.

The cake.

Shooting the new gun. (As an un-gunned person, I find this frightening. There, I said it.)

The gun.

A mom-made quilt. I told him it would last forever. Love the morning hair.

Wanna See Something Scary?

2010-01-01T11:58:00.001-08:00

This is a scene from today. Just where are this baby and her brother playing? That would be on the top bunk of this brother's bed. I was struck by the quiet in the house after lunch--where was everyone (expecially Sarah)? And why were they all quiet? Good golly. Jack says, "I'm doing an okay job watching her." "Okay" from the top bunk isn't exactly what I was looking for. Maybe I should be thankful that Sarah is not on the floor of the boys' room as it is covered with about 6000 tiny Lego pieces.

What Is Your Word?

2009-12-31T13:54:00.000-08:00

What child of the 70's doesn't have fondue for New Year's?

Cream puffs and candy for dessert.

Tacquitos per Jack's request.

For the past several years on New Year's Eve, our family had chosen a word (for each of us) that describes our personal goal for the coming year. It must be something positive, something that encourages principles that we believe in. The younger kids get a gentle suggestion for choosing their words. This year we are as follows:

Jon: Peace (though he states his word was actually going to be "independent")

Jack: Self-control (just a little direction in choosing this one)

Madeline: Tolerance

Julie: Sharing

Bill: Joy

Crawling Sarah

2009-12-28T07:43:00.000-08:00

Saturday

2009-12-26T16:16:00.000-08:00

More snap circuits. This time it was a radio.

Jon, ironing. "I am an ironing fool." he says.

Such a nice and quiet day. Went for a walk this afternoon in the mud. Yuck. This evening found the kids all engaged in their own activities. Madeline read her new favorite book--Rolling Stone's Rock and Roll Encyclopedia. (Thanks to Uncle Jayson for the idea.) Jack graduated to the "big" experiments in the snap circuit book. Jon decided that ironing was the greatest idea ever. Sarah slept. Now, what will tomorrow bring?

Just a Few Christmas Pictures

2009-12-26T05:24:00.000-08:00

Sarah, sucking her finger, looking sweet.

Sarah with her new teething doll.

Jack putting together snap circuits. (Which I highly recommend as a toy)

Madeline, reading as always.

Jon, as only Jon can be.

A lovely, simple Christmas. The requisite pajama presents on Christmas Eve, Chinese food for dinner, early morning wake-up call (even by the older kids!), staying in our pjs until mid-afternoon, playing with new treasures. No cooking for me and a nice party with friends to finish off the day.

I spent some time this morning researching Epiphany. Anyone celebrate this? It's a holiday that culminates with a cake, so I'm thinking about hopping on board this one. Any holiday with a cake is a good holiday in my book. The only part of this idea that won't work for me is that you're supposed to leave the Christmas decorations up until the 6th of January. Then have an undecorating party. NO WAY! I am all about putting it all away today. As in the day after Christmas. I'm ready to reclaim the space. Note though, that I do keep up twinkly lights in our living room all year, so we are not totally without cheer.

Only 7 more days until Jack's birthday. I'd better get going on this.

A New Quilt For A New Baby

2009-12-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

Started piecing a simple baby quilt for my good friend who recently found out she was expecting. Not sure if it will be for a boy or for a girl, so decided on a brown/blueish/greenish scheme.

Finished top.

This is what I saw outside my window, while sewing.

Cut and ready to sew.

I Won't Ever Make It As A Meteorologist

2009-12-19T06:55:00.000-08:00

Well, I said it wouldn't snow. I mean, it didn't even look like a snow sky. I guess I was wrong. This is what it looked like this morning:

We had about 3 inches by last night. Very windy, sleety, and cold overnight. Not sure what today will bring, but I know that we will be warm and cozy inside the house. There might be some snowman construction and fort building by the boys, but it won't last long. Jon always takes his gloves/mittens off, believing that they hamper his ability to handle snow. Then he becomes hysterical when his hands "are freezing/burning!"

While standing in the kitchen, looking out the window towards the chicken coop, I feared I saw a dead and frozen chicken just laying in there. I watched for several minutes and it never moved. Yikes. I woke Bill and made him go out and offer mouth to beak resuscitation. Luckily, Ms. Chicken was only gazing about, enchanted by the winter beauty surrounding her.

An Old Dress

2009-12-16T08:39:00.000-08:00

This is Sarah, in a dress that my grandma made for me a-l-o-n-g time ago. This is knit on tiny, little needles in a Fair-Isle pattern. It's amazing! To take the time and put forth the effort to create such a treasure is a quickly disappearing art. I have come to appreciate these little bits of creativity and work so much more in the past few years. Of course, just after the pictures were taken she promptly spit up all over. Now the dress is soaking, to be worn again someday soon.

Helpful Brothers

2009-12-15T07:54:00.000-08:00

Jon, feeding Sarah.

Still feeding. Notice the HUGE hole in the arm seam of his pjs.

Jack, snuggling with Sarah. He like to put her in my bed and cover her with blankets.

Bawk

2009-12-12T10:28:00.001-08:00

These lovely ladies have been providing us with fresh eggs for several weeks now. I believe it will take 2 months of egg production to recoup our lumber costs for the structure. With a little shock training for Daisy the Dog, we are able to let the chicken roam freely about the yard and woods. Every evening at sunset, they all congregate outside the coup, ready to be shut in for the night. Aside from chicken poop on the porch a few times (the chickens walk right over the sleeping Daisy--she's sure they're responsible for the shocks she received and is now horribly afraid of them), they have become a welcome addition here.

Sarah's View

2009-12-12T10:24:00.000-08:00

A picture, by Jon, of where Sarah is most happy. Carrier courtesy of my parents. Can you believe this carrier (it's an Ergo, for anyone who's interested--highly recommend it) was found via Craigslist in Salem and shipped to me in VA? I cannot find one here within a 100 mile radius. Crazy!

She has the best laugh

2009-12-11T14:30:00.000-08:00

Still Here!

2009-12-03T20:28:00.000-08:00

There's been a new chicken coop AND the accompanying chickens. New forts for boys, complete with flying flags. Lots of winterizing the house. Undecorating for fall and redecorating for Christmas. Visiting family. Lots of knitting and sewing for Christmas. A little shopping. Plenty of reading. Advent. Good cooking and baking. Lots of baby rocking.

Pictures to follow.

Crazy Sarah

2009-11-14T08:42:00.000-08:00

The End of Baseball--At Least Until March

2009-11-12T15:46:00.000-08:00

Jack's Fall baseball team. Jack is on the far left, bottom row.

Just a funny side note: The guy on the left side, top row, is a salesman/deliveryman for Lay's. That means he is surrounded by chips all of the time. On the days he restocks store shelves, the outdated bags of chips get thrown away--or in our case, re-gifted to us. Not being a chip-eater myself, I didn't know much about the variety of chips and chip products available. Now, I feel like a true chip expert. We have boxes of chips in our utility room. Strange combinations such as cheddar and jalapeno Cheetos, spicy sweet chili Doritos, tacos at midnight Doritos (Bill's favorite), and cheddar and sour cream Lay's. All kinds, really. I'm not sure yet if I'm grateful for his generosity.

Bananas Are Good!

2009-11-12T15:41:00.000-08:00

Sarah has started eating. A little cereal earlier in the week and this morning, bananas. I see that a stack of newly sewn bibs in my future.

The Boycott Continues.....

2009-11-10T17:54:00.001-08:00

We are now more than 6 weeks into our Walmart boycott. We haven't set foot in Walmart. Not once. Though there was a tempting afternoon where we needed craft supplies. We fought it and walked away. I feel strangely liberated and free. Can we make it through Christmas?

Sleeping In A Hole

2009-11-06T04:40:00.000-08:00

So Jon has been playing outside a lot lately, even after dark since the time change. He usually brings a "lantern" (flashlight) to light his way. There's a large hole, near the driveway, that he's been diligently digging. You get the picture. Anyway, the other evening I went outside to check on him around 6:30 and I couldn't find him. I called for him and he didn't answer. I put on my shoes and walked around the yard looking for him. I found him laying down in his hole "taking a little nap." According to him, that is. What a little freak!

I Think I'm Going To Need To Babyproof Soon.

2009-11-05T05:56:00.000-08:00

Cookies

2009-11-02T09:30:00.001-08:00

The stem NEVER comes out on this one! Never.

My favorite. Needs to be washed.

Every fall, for probably my whole life, I've used these cookie cutters to make gingerbread cookies. Same recipe, same cookie cutters, same everything. I thrive on change, don't you know.

Oh Golly, the Chocolate.

2009-10-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

Easy recipe for truffles:

10-12 oz. of good quality dark chocolate (we use Ghirardelli 60% Dark)

2 Tbsp. butter

Pour 1 C. heavy cream, scalded and hot, over the chocolate and butter. Cover and let sit 5 minutes or until chocolate is melted. Whisk until smooth. Add any flavoring at this point too. Vanilla is good, but so is mint, or Bailey's, or Frangellica, or orange zest. Put the bowl in the fridge for several hours or until the chocolate is thick enough to scoop. Be sure to dip your finger in the bowl and lick it several times. It's especially good when the chocolate has thickened enough that lots sticks to your finger.

Scoop thickened chocolate into balls, roll them into nice round shapes if you want. Freeze for 20 minutes. Now, dip in melted chocolate, roll in nuts or cocoa, or just eat. Super easy and so good. No pictures to share because we ate the examples!

An Autumn Walk

2009-10-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

Sarah's new pumpkin hat.

Looking across the pond. The ripples are from Jack's BB gun that he uses to skip BBs on the water.

Another view. Aren't the leaves too pretty?

Another gorgeous day in Virginia. Took off for a walk this evening, across the field by what the kids think is a haunted house. We've been hearing logging machines in that direction and seeing loaded trucks come by the house but weren't sure exactly where they were working. We found the landing, machines and all, by our favorite pond. Didn't seem to be bothering the beavers as there were plenty of freshly fallen trees on their dam.

What Fun!

2009-10-24T15:41:00.000-07:00

Gosh, we had a fun day today. Woke up at 5:00 this morning when the power went out (and the kids came in) and rewoke at 8:00 to find it still out. Since Saturday mornings are Donut Shop mornings (I do love keeping to a predictable schedule!), I figured we'd fare well for breakfast without needing to open the fridge. Turned out the power was off in our entire part of the state. Every business (even Walmart) was closed. No donuts, no coffee, no nothing. Now that wasn't the start to a fun day. What were we to do?

Bill decided to load us in the car and head south, having heard a rumor that the power was, indeed, still on in NC. A quick 25 minute drive found our hungry family in a small town called Warrenton, which just happened to be hosting a lovely little Fall Festival in the town park. Lots of silly junk, a few talented craftsmen, some local produce, and many nice shops to browse through. After eating a hearty brunch (I had to convince Jon that it was okay to combine breakfast and lunch into just one meal) we wandered about for several hours just enjoying the day. The weather was gorgeous and warm. The leaves are really peaking in color right now, and the wind was blowing them all around as we walked. Jon was certain that they weren't "real" leaves. Just a few treasures we found:

A wildly bright table cloth.

New Pyrex goodies. All bought separately. I think I had a green thing going on today. Madeline cannot use this pitcher, as she was the breaker of the last one I owned.

Can't show you the awesome chocolate we had because we ate it. I think there will be some truffle-making going on tomorrow.

An all around great day, spent with my favorite people.

Tonight

2009-10-20T17:40:00.000-07:00

On our way home.

Sarah, asleep in the backpack. Drooling.

Crossing the creek.

Just pretty leaves.

Such a nice night for a walk. Bill got home early tonight and there was no baseball practice so we decided to get in a walk before dinner. The weather is so nice here right now. The leaves are so pretty and the bugs seem to be leaving so walking in the woods is just lovely. Knowing that there was a roast and mashed potatoes waiting for us (already cooked!) was lovely too.

Not too busy of a week. School work, outside play, baseball, drooling and teething, and hopefully more walks.

A Completed Project

2009-10-11T14:07:00.000-07:00

Boy, does that feel good. I love it when I come to the end of working on a big project. Or at least big to me. I finished my poncho last weekend while at Chincoteague. Unfortunately, it hasn't been cool enough to wear it. Yet. I believe there's rain and cool in the forecast for the week ahead.

This poncho is really simple to make (all my brain can handle). It's a repetitive pattern, which puts you in a near trance-like state while knitting it. I was able to knit in the car, on the beach, at our house, even in the dark!

It Came, It Came!!

2009-10-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

After exhausting all sources providing movies, including my own stash, I have succumbed to the power of Netflix. The available choices are incredible. However, only one choice can really tempt me. Only one choice can really offer me the thrilling, well-acted, exceptional story lines including both drama and romance. Yes, people, Netflix offers "Nash Bridges" complete seasons for your viewing pleasure. Oh, how I look forward to sitting down, rocking and feeding Sarah, and watching quality TV this weekend. Can they (at Netflix) drop you for having the strangest, most eclectic queue? If so, I'm in danger of losing my membership. And WHY is queue spelled that way?

Just a few pictures from our trip.

2009-10-05T07:38:00.000-07:00

Posing on the beach.

Sarah. And mom.

In front of "our" house.

Weird Viking statue.

Sleeping Sarah on the beach.

Off We Go!

2009-10-01T05:18:00.000-07:00

Heading out today for a birthday weekend trip. How come the planning and preparation for a trip is great, but when the day of departure arrives, I actually dread leaving? Will someone get sick? Will the house we've rented smell bad and be dirty? How will I feed everyone something other than fastfood? Did I pack everything? Who will feed the animals while we're away? What if our house burns down (Jon always asks this question)? Is this really supposed to be a vacation for me? By the time we pull out of the driveway, my patience has already traveled approximately 238 miles in the opposite direction. Really, I'm no fun to take on vacation.

Immy, we're hoping to stop in Machipongo--will be thinking of you!

Rheann and Alexander, you've traveled with me and can substantiate my claims.

Mom and Dad, thanks for having a baby in 1971. (I can't make myself type my actual age)

Bill and Chris, thanks for the birthday gift!

Marguerite Henry, thanks for writing a book about a real place that inspired a girl to visit the actual place and see the actual ponies. A favorite book really comes to life.....

Walmart Will Be The Downfall of the World

2009-09-30T18:39:00.000-07:00

Okay. After one too many bad experiences at the local Walmart, I am deciding to boycott. Now this is not an easy decision to make considering where I live. Our community is small and rural, lacking retail variety and many specialty stores. What little we do have available can be antiquated and expensive. Let's face it, it's nice and easy to run to the local Walmart and get everything you need in one place. We have decided that we will no longer be supporting a store that flourishes despite their non-existent customer service. I'm also fairly certain that Walmart has some other major flaws within the entire scope of its existence, so maybe we also have a moral and ethical obligation to turn our backs to them as well. Here's a list of some ways we will be able to break the chains of bondage (a little dramatic, yes, I know...) to Walmart:

1. Shop at the only other grocery store: Food Lion. This will be more expensive and with fewer organic choices, but usually with better produce and meat.

2. Look into buying grass-fed beef and free-range chicken every six weeks from the natural grocery store in the city and freeze for later use.

3. Buy local eggs on the way to the library every week.

4. Utilize the Internet for more of our shopping.

5. Shop in the city (combine this with the meat buying trip) for fabric, crafting supplies, etc.

6. Try the local department store for clothing and shoe needs.

7. Grow more of our own vegetables.

8. Buy fruit from the local farm stands. Though this fruit isn't organic or completely local, it is at least from VA. It's also supporting a small, local business.

It used to be that if you needed hardware, you went to the hardware store. If you needed plants, you went to a nursery. Need groceries? Go to the grocery store. We've become so used to one-stop-shopping (thank you, Fred G. Meyer) that I believe we are lazy. I also believe that our patronage of these Big Box stores has lowered our expectations for quality products, knowledgeable service people, and good service. I am going to take a little more time, energy, and money and search for stores where quality and service matter. In the end, I'm hoping that my hard-earned money and time will be spent in a way that makes me feel content with my consumer purchases. Not bewildered, cheated, unsatisfied, and taken advantage of.

4 Months Old

2009-09-26T10:49:00.000-07:00

Sporting her rather large elf hat.

New duds. Very fallish.

Jack's out sawing logs.

I'd rather not remember where I was at this time 4 months ago, but without it all, there wouldn't be Sarah.

Have We No Shame?

2009-09-26T08:46:00.001-07:00

I've been the lucky recipient of several friends' cast-off girls' clothing. Lots of fancy stuff I'd never buy but enjoy dressing Sister Sarah in all the same. Another HUGE bag found its way to our home yesterday so be prepared for more photos of our sweet baby!

Sick

2009-09-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you care for one sick 5 year old, then an under the weather 10 year old, finishing up with loving on a snotty-nosed 4 month old? It's a sick mother. How come everyone else is feeling better and I'm sinking into a deeper, worser sickness? Worser, yep, worser. And how can my nose be so stuffy and still run, nonstop? I foresee lots of resting (who am I kidding?) this weekend.

Anyone Have A Thighmaster?

2009-09-24T17:07:00.000-07:00

These are Sarah's new babylegs (just like baby legwarmers). So handy for changing diapers without having to pull off pants. You can find them here.

Working out.

Chubby legs.

We Are A Sight!

2009-09-17T16:27:00.000-07:00

If you're ever in LaCrosse some evening around 6:30, maybe you'll see us. We're the funny looking people, running laps around their field. You'll surely recognize us: a tired-looking woman with the industrial-strength sports bra (nursing four babies has that effect on a person), the taller-than-her mother teenager who unhappily plods along, the mid-sized boy who jogs effortlessly along with no concept of personal space, and lastly, the littlest boy who runs exuberantly, just for the joy of running. Oh, what a sight we are.

This is the third week into our running adventure. Can't say it's my favorite thing to do, but I do enjoy my company while doing so. Gosh, I forgot to add that we are usually accompanied by a big, yellow dog who hops like a kangaroo, a cat who looks bewildered by the activity, and a goat who simply stares blankly. It really is a family affair. Now, off to Sonic for our after-run treats.

The X-files

2009-09-13T15:34:00.000-07:00

Oh my. For his birthday, Bill decided to splurge on a 12 DVD set of the X-files (it only cost $19.99 because no one else could possible want such garbage). This would be season 1 and 2. Because I sit down quite often during the day to nurse Sarah, I find myself watching movies more than usual. We don't have cable or satellite, so it's just the DVD player or VCR and me (and I guess Sarah too). I've watched Andy Griffith, Peter Pan, Chocolat, and almost every other movie I can find in our house. I've rented from Redbox too. Oh, and let me not forget the offerings from our library as well. Because I feel as if I've nearly exhausted all local movie opportunities, I have (only out of complete desperation) taken to watching The X-files. From the beginning. I'm currently on Season 2, disk 2. That's 8 disks that I have already consumed visually. I will never be the same. The truth is out there.

On another note, I have also done a bit of calculating while feeding this baby. In the 16 weeks that we've had Sarah, if she's been fed 5 times per day, I have assumed the position in my chair 560 times. How's that for impressive?

Madeline's Birthday

2009-09-13T15:20:00.000-07:00

The unfortunate cake.

Supposed to be "13" but have no idea what Jon is doing.

I know you're not supposed to take their picture, but I was discreet. I made Bill follow him so I could snap a quick one. I wish I could have taken a picture of the Amish girl mowing the lawn with a push mower and the man cutting hay with a horse drawn cutting machine. Is it bad that I stalk the Amish?

The teenager (that's how Jon refers to her now) had a full day. Started with donuts and presents for breakfast and a trip to our favorite bookstore in Charlotte Courthouse (that's really the name of the town!). A drive through Amish country and lunch at Chick-fil-a in Farmville VA. Baseball games, really awesome yarn store in the middle of no where (http://yarnbarn.com/), and dinner on the deck at Charlie's in Farmville. Lastly, cake and ice cream at home with a request by the teenager for a retelling of her birth story. She said this was the best birthday ever.

Someone Sabotaged My Cake!

2009-09-12T06:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, who did it?! Someone has ruined my frosting. This is a well-used, proven recipe so how come it won't work? I'm sure I've used this recipe at least 50 times with no trouble. How come it won't work today?

13

2009-09-12T05:25:00.000-07:00

Is it possible that Bill and I are parents to a teenager?! Just when did THAT happen? Today Madeline turns 13. This girl will spend the day at her brother's baseball game without any complaining. She is a kind-hearted, generous girl who is always willing to help out her family. She has the patience of a Saint when it comes to her siblings. Her ability to create is amazing. All and all, we think we're pretty lucky to have her. Happy 13, Mad!

New Project

2009-09-09T13:52:00.000-07:00

Started a new bag today. This one is an overnight/weekender bag. I travel SO often that I really thought I needed this. Yeah, right. It's also a project for a swap I'm participating in at Shivaya Naturals. The pattern is from Living crafts magazine.

I'm using two old tablecloths, a thrifted sheet, lots of fabric scraps, and who-knows-what else!

Labor Day

2009-09-07T09:04:00.000-07:00

Today, everyone is laboring. Except me. I did that a few months ago. Bill enlisted the help of all able-bodied children to help him stain and finish the deck.

Sarah is helping.Twinky is helping.

Madeline is NOT helping, but Jon is.

Jack is helping.

Don't they all look so nice? Everyone received a new haircut last night. There were no tears or tantrums, though Bill was not happy with his cut. And Sarah didn't get a haircut either.

R.I.P. Oreo

2009-09-06T06:19:00.000-07:00

Oreo the Gerbil has died. After a short, unidentified malady, Oreo died peacefully in his sleep last night. I found him curled up in his bedding, looking quite peaceful. Jon is certain that he has just "moved to the city." I am thankful that I will no longer have to smell his stinky cage.

Bill's Birthday

2009-09-02T18:35:00.001-07:00

Pecan Pie, lasagna, and baseball practice.

Happy 36th.

We're Off....

2009-09-02T16:19:00.001-07:00

And running, that is. Madeline and I have started running. Now let me be clear that this is certainly NOT her idea. After this last pregnancy, I've gotten a bit (okay, maybe a lot) out of shape. I find myself rather winded when I play regular kid games with these regular kids. And, let's face it--my birthday is just around the corner. Anyway, I cannot face the prospect of running by myself, so I figured Madeline would make a good partner. Problem is, her legs are about twice as long as mine. We're starting slowly and rewarding ourselves often. She is all about nail polish and though I'd rather be all about ice cream, I guess that I'm all about Dr. Bronner's peppermint soap. Will keep you posted on our progress.

Sarah's New Trick

2009-08-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

It seems Miss Sarah does not like to lay down (or recline) in her bouncy seat anymore. You see, she's much too big for such babyish past times. Some friends passed along an excersaucer and a johnny-jump-up for Sarah to use until she walks (Yikes!). Though she gets tired and wobbly fairly quickly right now, I'm sure this will be her most favorite activity in no time.

Notice Sarah's sweater. It was actually chilly enough this morning to warrant a sweater. This is one that my Grandma made for me (I think it was for me, at least).

Ta Da: It's Finished!

2009-08-31T06:05:00.001-07:00

A close-up of a square. Don't look too closely.

Front and back view.

Full view.

Taped down, trimmed, and ready to quilt.

Oh golly. This was a project, but fun too. This is a log cabin quilt. Tutorial is found http://stitchesinplay.typepad.com/stitches_in_play/2009/06/easypeasy-log-cabin-tutorial.html.

There are 40 squares, each with 9, pieced strips. That's 360 pieces. Each one of those 360 pieces was stitched, pressed, trimmed, fitted, and then stitched some more. Then each of those 40 squares was stitched together. Then the entire thing was laid on top of batting and a backing (a perfectly coordinated thrifted sheet), basted together with safety pins, and ultimately machine-quilted in squares. It took an entire spool of thread to finish.

The plan is to use the quilt as an outside blanket sort of thing. Like for picnics and baseball games and such. It's just so cute that I might have to come up with an excursion this week so we can actually use the darn thing!

If I was old and had no babies to feed, children to teach, and various other duties to tend to, I would be a quilter. I have a huge appreciation for those who pursue this craft--it's not easy. And I did mine all my machine too. My Aunt does all of her quilts BY HAND!

Just enough squares left over to put together a couple of matching pillow covers. Won't we be the coolest looking picnickers ever?

Someone, leave me a comment and tell me how impressed you are. Please?!

Oh, The Complete Chaos

2009-08-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

This is how my dining room looks right now, with no end in sight.

There are little, bitty scraps of fabric everywhere. The table is unuseable. The floor is covered with fibers and threads. But, I am having fun.

Michael's Birthday Cake

2009-08-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

This is the cake that is affectionately referred to as Michael's Birthday Cake. It's really just angelfood cake with buttercream frosting, but it has always been my brother Michael's choice at birthday times. I think I've eaten too much of the frosting today though.

1 baked Angelfood cake (I NEVER make this cake from scratch as it requires a full dozen eggs!)

Now for the best part--frosting.

Cream together:

1 stick of butter

Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon

Add:

1 lb. powdered sugar

Juice of lemon and orange
Enough cream or additonal lemon juice to make a spreadable or spoonable frosting.

You'll know it's a success when there are many finger marks in the frosting!

I Know What's Been Missing In My Life

2009-08-22T14:03:00.000-07:00

It's Goodwill. Haven't done any GW shopping since moving to Virginia. While living in Oregon, I would get together with a group of girls on a regular basis and peruse not one, but two, local Goodwill stores. I've been known to "shut down" a store or two in my time. (That means be the last person in the store at closing time.)

Last week, out of complete desperation for something to do, Madeline and I went thrifting. That included our local Goodwill. Yes, it is a smaller venue than what I'm used to, thrifting snob that I am, but we did fairly well with our finds. Providentially, we found a Beatles t-shirt just at the point where Madeline said, "This place is gross and there isn't anything here that I would possibly want." Now she's a convert.

Today, I took Jon and Madeline with me on the hunt. Jack could not be convinced to join us, even with the promise of Sonic afterwards. Bill and Sarah were sleeping. Oh, and what a haul we made. Two new movies, a new Levi jean jacket for Jack (what he's been wanting FOREVER), 3 sweatshirts for Jon, baseball pants for Jon (tball, Heaven help us, next year), a book for Bill, and new cargo pants for Jack (he likes the pockets for knives and such). Oh, and a Talbot's sweater for Jon too. All of this for $13.00!

After a necessary swipe with the anti-bac. wipe, we ran to Sonic for tots and soda. Whew. What an eventful day for us fast-living Pennicks. We really know how to have a good time.

Here Is What's Happening

2009-08-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

Anyone remember that from local TV when we were little? Maybe it was on channel 2? Anyway, we've been trying to keep out of the hot, humid weather as much as possible.

We had a nice evening swimming in the lake on Wednesday, followed by the worst thunderstorm I've ever seen. The lightning was incredible! (Thank you, Jayson, for recognizing the misspelling of lightning)

Yesterday, I highlighted Madeline's hair RED.

Miss Sarah has started turning over and will hold her head steady when you pull her up by the arms. That description sounds sorta bad, but you probably know what I really mean. I swear we are not abusive.

Jack has been bemoaning the hot weather, just chomping at the bit to get outside and cut firewood to sell.

Jon has been writing and drawing maps to a myriad of locations. There are maps all over my house.

There will be a baseball game in Danville for Bill, Jack, Madeline, and Jon on Sunday (with Jack's baseball team from earlier this summer).

Some unfeatured Sarah pictures

2009-08-18T17:19:00.000-07:00

Mobile

2009-08-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

Once again, we decided that Sarah needed a homemade source of amusement. So we spent last night making this mobile:

The funky felt owls that we both worked on:

The cute felt trees:

Sarah's take on it:

And her reaction to having her picture taken:

New toys for Sarah

2009-08-14T14:42:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, Mom decided that Sarah's nug could contain toxic dye. OK. Anyway, the following freaky, Waldorf toys from Nova came today.
100% silk nug:

Weird, all natural, crinkly teething doll:

Another video

2009-08-12T17:19:00.000-07:00

Spazzy Sarah:

Another Sarah video

2009-08-10T13:39:00.000-07:00

This one shows her very talktive side:

This One's For Heather

2009-08-09T16:07:00.000-07:00

This is one of the onesies the Hofmanns sent from Oregon. It is so cute with the matching pants--too hot for pants today!

A New Fairy Tale

2009-08-09T16:04:00.000-07:00

This one's called "The Turtle and the Fur." Can you guess which fairy tale Jon was talking about? It would be "The Tortoise and the Hare." Pretty funny what comes out of kids' mouths.

Oh No, More Pictures

2009-07-25T09:38:00.000-07:00

The headband so no one mistakes her for a boy anymore.

The Jerry Garcia (really--I didn't know he posthumously designed clothes for babies) dress from this morning.

Sarah has a nug. Actually she has two nugs, both tie-dyed silks that Jack and Madeline made. Like her sister, Sarah likes to suck on nug and hold it when she's sleepy or when she's nursing.

Madeline still has a piece of the original nug. Sometimes, she likes to take it out of its secret hiding place and just feel it. I think it still has the magic in it. (I'm sure she'll roll her eyes when she reads this, but know that it is, in fact, the truth)

Cave Dweller

2009-07-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

Sarah is living in a cave/closet now. We moved her to her "room" from my room two days ago during the thunderstorm (Daisy the Dumb Dog kept barking and waking her up) and there she remains. It's like this cozy, little cave. Did a bit of decorating in it last week so I'll take some pictures later today. As a former unorthodox room dweller myself (mine was a utility room), I think that I can be sure she won't be unduly affected. Anyone need a gently used cradle?

Just a video

2009-07-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

A New Lemon Cake for Jon

2009-07-14T14:00:00.001-07:00

Juicing the lemons.

Adding LOTS of sprinkles.

The finished cake. Lemon with lemon frosting. Lots of frosting and sprinkles.

Sleeping Sister Sarah

2009-07-14T10:41:00.001-07:00

This was Sarah this afternoon. I couldn't wake her up--I tried everything to no avail. I really needed to get to the store to buy ingredients for a cake that Jon has requested making, but we had to wait and wait. And yes, I know you're not supposed to put them to sleep on their tummies.

Sunday Afternoon Craft

2009-07-12T11:34:00.000-07:00

We ran to Home Depot this afternoon to pick up a large bucket with a lid to use as a diaper pail. While browsing through the air-conditioned aisles, I found some wire and was inspired to try my hand at making canning jar lanterns. After searching through my pantry and uncovering many empty peanut butter jars with labels still intact, I found 2 clean, clear canning jars to use.

The end

2009-07-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

Jack's team lost on Wednesday. That means we're done for the summer now. Another good and exciting game but we just couldn't hit the ball. Our family feels like fish out of water without baseball to watch!

I guess we're heading out for an adventure today. Against my better judgement, really. I dislike traveling with a baby. We will be going to Danville VA (you know, the place where the tainted cookie dough is made) to do some sightseeing and to watch a baseball game. Well, some of us will be staying inside an air-conditioned hotel and watching TV while others of us will be watching baseball and eating nachos. All of us will be crammed into 1 room--this sounds an awful lot like torture. Wish me luck.....

Catching up

2009-07-01T12:50:00.001-07:00

After taking a much-needed break on Monday, Jack's team played what could have been their final tournament game last night. Could have been IF they'd have won. It was a great game to watch, but they lost, 4-3. Bill and I think the coach should have sacrifice bunted to tie the game, but what to we know...... Jack's team beat this same team on Sunday, 20-8. Now we will have a rematch tonight to decide who will be the champion of our subdistrict. Big stuff here. Jack has been the starting third baseman for all of the games. He's done a great job defensively.

On another note, Sister Sarah (we're thinking she might pursue nun as her vocation) needs to go on a diet. At her Dr. appt. today, she weighed in at 2 1/2lbs. more than she did 25 days ago. And she grew 2 inches in length. At a wee bit over 5 weeks that puts her at nearly 10 1/2 lbs. and 23 inches. No wonder she keeps growing out of clothes already! I'll try to take some pictures of her fat rolls. Interesting that it's cute on a baby but a little repulsive on a grownup?!

Must get dinner started (tacos tonight) so we can leave (the fifth night in 6 days) for baseball by 5:15. Did I mention that it's 95 degrees out too?

16-0

2009-06-28T07:01:00.000-07:00

That was the score of Jack's game last night. It was a major blowout. Jack made 3 great plays at third base: fielded a ground ball and made an out at first, fielded a bunt and threw the runner out at first, and tagged a runner stealing third. He had only 1 at-bat. Just popped up down the first base line. Sorry, no pictures. Thankfully the weather was much, much nicer. The excitement for the evening was Jon getting stung on the pinkie. We were able to procure some tobacco (such a difficult thing to do) and make a poultice to apply. I watched Jon very carefully, as I figured he'd try to place the poultice in his mouth "just like a cowboy." He did not.

Just some pictures from All Stars

2009-06-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

All Stars!

2009-06-26T12:58:00.001-07:00

Jack had his first all star game last night. It was hot and miserable. And buggy. They won, though, so we have another game this evening.

This sleeping picture of Sarah has nothing to do with baseball. It's just cute.

This is Jack's cool, new uniform. He doesn't look very happy.

This is Jack and Jon. Jon thinks he has on a uniform too. Jack was not happy to be sharing a photo with Jon. Obviously.

More pictures and the hiccups

2009-06-25T10:04:00.000-07:00

Here's a few pictures from today.
Her really, really, really really cute outfit:

And then here's a video, showing just how bad her hiccups are:

%&!@#&!

2009-06-24T06:20:00.000-07:00

That is my current emotion. It seems that a "malicious program" (that's what I'm told it's called) has invaded my computer. The computer tech/geek who I spoke with said it probably originated from a free download sight, the most popular being illegal music downloads or porn, and since we don't frequent either (but I'll need to check with Jon just to be sure) we have concluded that it must be from a free craft pattern site. You know us crafty people--we are trouble. So I guess an infected knitting pattern has been the unraveling of my computer.

Fun Craft Supply

2009-06-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

We found these paints at Michael's Crafts yesterday. They're just like a bingo dauber. They're non-toxic, washable, smelly, AND sparkly. A perfect combination for crafting at our house.

This is a thank you card Jon made with them this morning.

What We're Eating for Dinner

2009-06-21T14:56:00.000-07:00

It's meat swirls! Doesn't that sound yummy? It's actually ground beef, but Jon calls it meat swirls. Just look at a package of hamburger next time you're at the store. The ground meat really does look all swirly and curly. A very descriptive name, I think.

This Morning

2009-06-20T06:23:00.001-07:00

At 9:00AM this is the temperature. Already.

The hydrangeas are in full bloom and scattered in vases throughout the house.

A sleeping baby who only woke up one time last night.

Jack had a double-header last night, attended by Bill (the first time he's watched a game as a non-coach!), Sarah, Jon, and I. This morning, Jack had practice at 9:00AM. That's a lot of baseball.

Another New Dress

2009-06-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

For Miss Sarah's 3 week celebration, we dressed her in a new dress. (Anyone getting tired of this ridiculous hobby of ours?!)

She is just on the verge of smiling at us and she's getting nice and fat. Her little legs and arms are getting chubby rolls. And her cheeks are chunky too. The added weight has, thankfully, made her feet look a bit less hideous.

You know what this is about,

2009-06-14T15:40:00.000-07:00

so I'll get to the point:
Her staring at who knows what:

She was really mad in this picture. I think she looks a lot like Mom:

She liked the light coming in the window in this one:

The Best Baby Ever

2009-06-08T05:59:00.000-07:00

That's what we've decided Sarah is. She hardly ever cries (Jack even asked when she would start crying!), goes to sleep on her own and sleeps for at least 4 hours (at night), nurses like a pro already, and seems completely contented when she is awake--just looks around and snuggles. A vast difference between her and the boys as babies. Yesterday, Sarah spent the day touring Pamplin Park, shopping at Target, and eating at Panera Bread. Never fussed one time, even when we changed her diaper at the bookstore, on Bill's lap! She is truly the best baby ever. And that's just the kind of baby I needed.

Bath pictures

2009-06-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

So yesterday night Sarah turned one week old! So how did we celebrate? A wonderfully exiting trip to Wal Mart and her first bath, as her cord fell off. Here's a few pictures:

Awwwwwwwww.........

2009-06-03T14:02:00.001-07:00

Do I even need to tell you what this post is about?

2009-06-02T08:20:00.001-07:00

If you guessed baby pictures, you were right.

Cute outfit that she wore yesterday (it was mine)

And Mom's first experiment with the Moby Wrap:

Sarah seemed pretty happy!

You guessed it......

2009-05-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

more baby pictures!

This was her all day long two days ago:

And a couple of her in the bouncy-seat:

Here's a couple more

2009-05-29T09:26:00.000-07:00

Just a few pictures from this morning.

This one's my favorite.

Oh yeah,

2009-05-28T13:00:00.001-07:00

here's a picture I forgot. I love her onesie!

More pictures

2009-05-28T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here's a couple of pictures from today.

Me holding her:

Screaming to be fed:

Mom holding her right before feeding, with Jon watching:

And her name is............

2009-05-28T09:53:00.001-07:00

or we think it'll be, Sara(h) Elizabeth Pennick! Everyone thinks it's very pretty. Now we just need to decide how to spell it.
There'll be more pictures pretty soon. Hopefully ones in which she doesn't have a hat on!

New Baby

2009-05-26T06:16:00.000-07:00

Well, you've waited, you're wondered and now the moment has finally arrived in which you can now see the baby! For you all to know, it's a girl who is currently going by the temporary name of Tina (thank Jon). At 4:00 this morning, Mom went into labor and by 7:00, she'd delivered. So here's the newest addition to the Pennick family!

Mom says she looks a lot like me (Madeline)! Isn't she cute?

School, this week

2009-05-20T11:07:00.001-07:00

This is what school is looking like this week for us. Finishing up our math books, beginning a study on World War II (because Mom's knowledge about this is so terribly lacking), and a bit of grammar and writing thrown in for good measure. These pictures are from my vantage point on the sofa.

My view on Mother's Day

2009-05-11T09:51:00.001-07:00

Jack, practicing pitching in the lot.

Bill, hurting his knees catching.

Daisy dog, resting in the shade.

Shirtless Jon, wearing rubber boots in the heat.

I was sitting in a chair that Bill so-kindly moved out for me and Maddy was taking the pictures. Not a very eventful day. Shopped for a new lipstick at CVS and went to happy hour (half-priced drinks) at Sonic.

Ice cream ball and fresh strawberries

2009-05-05T16:46:00.000-07:00

Despite the ongoing rain, the local strawberries are ripe and ready to go. Earlier than Oregon by a long shot, but so good. There is a farm about 2 miles down the road that sells berries and we frequent it this time of year. I absolutely do not u-pick--I've done my share of that! We bought 5lbs. this morning and had them all eaten by this evening. Yikes! We used Jack's ice cream ball to make a bit of vanilla softserve to go with them. Have you seen one of these before? You fill one side with cream, sugar, vanilla, etc. and the other side with ice and salt. We roll it, throw it, or shake it for about 20 minutes and it makes about 1 pint of nice, soft ice cream.

Be sure to check out Jon's fort in the background. It's my chair covered with every pillow in the house. I think he's even hidden snacks back behind because you never know when hunger might strike!

Bill's not working due to the rain (what is it with these southerners--are they made of sugar?!) so tonight looks like a movie night. I believe they're watching "Independence Day" so I might need to find something else to occupy my time.

7 lbs. and counting

2009-04-30T18:23:00.000-07:00

That's how much my midwife thinks the baby weighs right now. She estimates 1/2 lb. gain each week (the baby, not me!), putting the final weight at 8ish lbs. Right in line with my others. Baby's heart rate is holding steady in the mid-140's (not going to give us a hint to the sex) and the head is engaged and ready to go. I'm going to guess at May 13th. Now, if I could only think of a name.....

It's getting to be that time again.

2009-04-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling like it's time to pull out the big guns--it's time for Pikes Peak-a-boo Purple on my toes. It's the color that I've painted my toes for the birth of all of my babies. The bottle is now 13 years old. Remarkable that it's kept so well. I've lent it out to women on both coasts with the promise of soon-to-be-begun labor. This nasty color is powerful stuff! It really is a horrible color--sort of blackish purple. The OB who delivered Madeline actually made a comment about how awful it was, sort of syonotic-looking. Now, if I can just reach my toes. To quote Jon: "Mama, you can still walk, but you just can't bend over."

I am a dental failure

2009-04-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

There. I've admitted it. Dr. Kleen would be so disappointed in how I've turned out. I'm a disgrace. After all these years of dental success, I have officially entered into the club of bad teeth. Cavities? Yep, I have them. Root canals? Yes, I'm on my way. Crowns and caps? Just around the bend. This is me. I hang my head in shame.

Easter pictures

2009-04-15T11:00:00.000-07:00

Jon dyeing eggs.

Outside egg dyeing. Too messy for inside!

Still dyeing eggs.

We decided that Chik-fil-a was a good choice for dinner on Saturday night. Too bad there aren't any in Oregon. Chik-fil-a is GOOD.

Jon Bakes a Cake

2009-04-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

Last night, Jon decided he wanted to bake a cake. Specifically, he wanted to bake a chocolate cake with white frosting. And sprinkles. We baked the cake this morning, frosted it this afternoon, and ate it after Jack's baseball game.

Opening Day

2009-04-08T18:17:00.000-07:00

Today was Jack's first baseball game. He pitched 1 inning and went 1 for 2, with 2 RBIs. The team won 8-5.