I spent most of the day baking one thing or another.
Pancakes for breakfast.
Homemade pizza for dinner.
And in between, I worked on pound cake and a carrot cake for dessert after Easter dinner. We'll use the pound cake for strawberry shortcake. I will say, though, that this is the first time my pound cake looks like a disaster. Tastes good but it fell and is pretty crispy on the edges. If the carrot cake turns out well I'll post the recipe. It was easy enough.
After I made the cream cheese icing for the carrot cake, the girls and I were licking the beaters and spoon. I barely heard it but Kayla said, "This couldn't be better." LOL
In the middle of all this I pulled out a very old Michael Card cd. Wow. It sounds old but what great lyrics.
Excited for Easter morning!
It's my favorite holiday- so much hope from an empty tomb.
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Friday, March 29, 2013
Friday Evening
I just stood out on our semi-snowy deck to hear the spring peepers. It seems like they'll be gone before it's warm enough to open the windows or sit outside to listen to them. I hate to miss them, though- they're one of my favorite things about spring.
CC ended yesterday. Can you hear my happy dance??? It will be nice to dig into other things now that we won't be spending as much time on our memory work.
We took today off from school. Spent a little extra time reading in "The Child's Story Bible" about Jesus' last hours and crucifixion. Got some cleaning done, made a menu for Easter dinner, went to the library, and grocery shopped. The kids got outside to play- it wasn't blowing snow! All in all I think it's been a pretty good day.
We've read some pretty good books lately. Here's a run-down:
Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai I've already mentioned this one but it's worth repeating. One of my favorites so far out of the books we've read for a mother/daughter book club at the library. The author wrote it based on her own experience as a refugee from Vietnam.
Granny Torrelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech Another book club selection. This is a great story of friendship.
The Big Wave by Pearl Buck This is the story of a family who watches their town be swept away by a tsunami. Another good message of friendship and family.
What I'm reading:
The Memory of Old Jack by Wendell Berry Not my favorite of his but still good.
In Defense of Food and Food Rules by Michael Pollan I'm considering small changes we can make over time to our overall diet. I'd love to eat less and less out of a box- so many chemicals! I don't think I'll ever give up cereal (Cheerios) or ice cream but there are plenty of ways we could eat healthier. We'll see.
CC ended yesterday. Can you hear my happy dance??? It will be nice to dig into other things now that we won't be spending as much time on our memory work.
We took today off from school. Spent a little extra time reading in "The Child's Story Bible" about Jesus' last hours and crucifixion. Got some cleaning done, made a menu for Easter dinner, went to the library, and grocery shopped. The kids got outside to play- it wasn't blowing snow! All in all I think it's been a pretty good day.
We've read some pretty good books lately. Here's a run-down:
Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai I've already mentioned this one but it's worth repeating. One of my favorites so far out of the books we've read for a mother/daughter book club at the library. The author wrote it based on her own experience as a refugee from Vietnam.
Granny Torrelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech Another book club selection. This is a great story of friendship.
The Big Wave by Pearl Buck This is the story of a family who watches their town be swept away by a tsunami. Another good message of friendship and family.
What I'm reading:
The Memory of Old Jack by Wendell Berry Not my favorite of his but still good.
In Defense of Food and Food Rules by Michael Pollan I'm considering small changes we can make over time to our overall diet. I'd love to eat less and less out of a box- so many chemicals! I don't think I'll ever give up cereal (Cheerios) or ice cream but there are plenty of ways we could eat healthier. We'll see.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Wednesday Afternoon
Today is one of those days that I'd like to live in a bubble. Block out the sad path of this world in favor of rose-colored glasses. Not gonna happen, is it?
And that's ok but I do feel burdened for our children and the world they are growing up in.
In other news, today has been a good school day. Kayla's final presentation for CC is on Eleanor Roosevelt so we have spent some time researching and learning about her. I did not know about her "My Day" column. Did you? She wrote a column for the newspaper that began as a way to share her days at the White House with the country. We were able to google them and read several. So interesting.
We also spent a good bit of time learning about the Wonderchild of classical music, Mozart. The kids are going to help me teach about him tomorrow at CC- we're planning on a play of sorts- could be interesting!
And yesterday we worked on using Borax and water to make crystals in jars. Fun. As science goes, some jars worked, some didn't. Maybe we'll get some pictures up soon.
Lastly, we are reading a book aloud called Inside Out and Back Again. Fantastic. It's about a 10 year old girl in Vietnam who has to leave her country with her family during the war. They end up in Alabama. It has tugged at my heart- in both good and sad ways- over and over as we read about their loss and the way they were treated here in the US. I would absolutely recommend it.
quote of the day from Sam: "Mom, this isn't the spring I was hoping for." I have to say I'm starting to agree with him. It's so cold!
And that's ok but I do feel burdened for our children and the world they are growing up in.
In other news, today has been a good school day. Kayla's final presentation for CC is on Eleanor Roosevelt so we have spent some time researching and learning about her. I did not know about her "My Day" column. Did you? She wrote a column for the newspaper that began as a way to share her days at the White House with the country. We were able to google them and read several. So interesting.
We also spent a good bit of time learning about the Wonderchild of classical music, Mozart. The kids are going to help me teach about him tomorrow at CC- we're planning on a play of sorts- could be interesting!
And yesterday we worked on using Borax and water to make crystals in jars. Fun. As science goes, some jars worked, some didn't. Maybe we'll get some pictures up soon.
Lastly, we are reading a book aloud called Inside Out and Back Again. Fantastic. It's about a 10 year old girl in Vietnam who has to leave her country with her family during the war. They end up in Alabama. It has tugged at my heart- in both good and sad ways- over and over as we read about their loss and the way they were treated here in the US. I would absolutely recommend it.
quote of the day from Sam: "Mom, this isn't the spring I was hoping for." I have to say I'm starting to agree with him. It's so cold!
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Big Daddy's Birthday
Brian's granddad will turn 90 next week. Last weekend there was a party in his honor. I have said before and I'll say it again, it is a true gift that all these kids have great-grandparents that they get to know and spend time with. There were grandchildren and great-grandchildren there- plenty of cousins to play with and enjoy. I hope it was a blessing to "Big Daddy."
Of course there was good food. Brian's sister, Sarah, and their mom, aka Granny, had planned it all out so nicely.
The weather was so nice which was perfect considering the number of people who came by to celebrate. I don't know exactly how many were there but my guess at least 100.
Of course there was good food. Brian's sister, Sarah, and their mom, aka Granny, had planned it all out so nicely.
The weather was so nice which was perfect considering the number of people who came by to celebrate. I don't know exactly how many were there but my guess at least 100.
Jack planned a magic show to close out the party day. After dinner he wowed his audience with his tricks.
I think it was a fun weekend for everyone- more pictures from a bike ride to follow.
Monday, March 25, 2013
And the Afternoon
For you, Amanda-from the afternoon.
Brian said "Why don't you go out a little?" So of course I did.
What I wanted was to sit in a cozy spot at a local coffee shop.
It was closed.
And I enjoyed these in the van while the flurries flew wildly outside.
Brian said "Why don't you go out a little?" So of course I did.
What I wanted was to sit in a cozy spot at a local coffee shop.
It was closed.
So I ran a few errands.
And I enjoyed these in the van while the flurries flew wildly outside.
Not exactly cozy but it was quiet.
And yes, I took that last picture later,not in the van.
Snowy Spring Morning
Kayla and I are sitting at the table on this, a declared snow day, at our house. I'm not sure what she's working on but I decided to take a few minutes to blog.
The snow started Sunday morning. It was sleet and cold rain when we left the house and during Sunday school it turned to snow and continued off and on all day. Perfect for taking a good nap, reading, and just generally having a relaxing afternoon. We made it out with some of our home group to do a Palm Sunday service of sorts at an assisted living center then back home for a movie for Brian and me- "Argo"- have you seen it? Lots of language but an on the edge of your seat kind of movie.
This morning it has been lightly snowing and now the sun is peaking out. So pretty. The washer and dryer are buzzing away, the other kids are playing upstairs, and I have CC work calling my name. But first...
A little snow time
I think the real reason they go out in the snow is to come back inside for hot chocolate.
At some point yesterday we realized Jack had used my broom, duct tape, a bowl, and a few other things to make a snow catcher. He scrapes snow off the roof and eats it. Or dumps it on people walking up to the door...
The snow started Sunday morning. It was sleet and cold rain when we left the house and during Sunday school it turned to snow and continued off and on all day. Perfect for taking a good nap, reading, and just generally having a relaxing afternoon. We made it out with some of our home group to do a Palm Sunday service of sorts at an assisted living center then back home for a movie for Brian and me- "Argo"- have you seen it? Lots of language but an on the edge of your seat kind of movie.
This morning it has been lightly snowing and now the sun is peaking out. So pretty. The washer and dryer are buzzing away, the other kids are playing upstairs, and I have CC work calling my name. But first...
A little snow time
I think the real reason they go out in the snow is to come back inside for hot chocolate.
At some point yesterday we realized Jack had used my broom, duct tape, a bowl, and a few other things to make a snow catcher. He scrapes snow off the roof and eats it. Or dumps it on people walking up to the door...
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Chili Cook-Off
First prize went to Kayla's Breathtaking Chicken Chili.
Second place went to Jack's Knock-Your-Socks Off Chili.
Sammy couldn't have cared less about chili. He just bowled all evening.
Kayla's Chicken Chili
(we adjust amounts to our taste and need)
1 1/2 pound cooked chicken
3 cans navy beans
1 1/2 cup water
small jar of salsa
block of Pepper Jack cheese, cubed (we used Colby)
Add all ingredients except cheese to crock pot. Heat for a few hours on high. Add cheese. Serve when cheese is melted.
Jack's Chili
This is roughly what we use.
2 cans pinto beans, drained
2 cans petite diced tomatoes
1 can crushed tomatoes
1 onion chopped
1 pound ground beef
salt, pepper, oregano
Brown the meat, add onions.
Cook all ingredients in a large pot or crock pot.
Simmer for a bit, then top with cheese.
Serve with chips or french bread.
Pretty basic but we like it.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Jack's 11th
Well it is not looking good for an historic snowstorm in our neck of the woods. I am very disappointed!
Oh well- what can I do?
Blog about Jack and his birthday.
I asked him what were some of the best things about this past year. One of the highlights was a good friend moving into the neighborhood and being able to bike to his house. Another was the church plant getting started.
Jack has a great sense of humor, still loves to read, is happy to give Lucy hugs and kisses, and wants to be either a librarian or be in the army. I love that when he wants to learn something he gets himself some books from the library and learns it. The librarians know him by name and one jokes with him about getting to the library limit on check-outs. He seems to be growing into a respectful, friendly young man- so proud of him.
Happy Birthday Jack!
They really do grow up so fast.
Doesn't seem possible that it's been 11 years since he was born.
He made his own cake from start to finish (by choice!).
He invited a few friends and Mimi and Papa over for cake, then the boys went swimming at the aquatic center.
On his actual birthday he had the traditional birthday cereal, went out to lunch with Granny and Grandpa, and watched a movie with Dad (and me for a bit).
Oh well- what can I do?
Blog about Jack and his birthday.
I asked him what were some of the best things about this past year. One of the highlights was a good friend moving into the neighborhood and being able to bike to his house. Another was the church plant getting started.
Jack has a great sense of humor, still loves to read, is happy to give Lucy hugs and kisses, and wants to be either a librarian or be in the army. I love that when he wants to learn something he gets himself some books from the library and learns it. The librarians know him by name and one jokes with him about getting to the library limit on check-outs. He seems to be growing into a respectful, friendly young man- so proud of him.
Happy Birthday Jack!
They really do grow up so fast.
Doesn't seem possible that it's been 11 years since he was born.
He made his own cake from start to finish (by choice!).
He invited a few friends and Mimi and Papa over for cake, then the boys went swimming at the aquatic center.
On his actual birthday he had the traditional birthday cereal, went out to lunch with Granny and Grandpa, and watched a movie with Dad (and me for a bit).
This might be one of my all time favorite pictures.
Love this guy.
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Catch Up
It's another birthday eve here- our firstborn turns 11 tomorrow.
Wow.
I thought I better do a little catching up before it's time for a birthday blog.
*They are calling for a big- maybe historic?- winter storm mid-week. I'm just alittle lot excited about the possibility.
*We had a nice dinner last night with my parents and Brian's parents. Hot soup on a cold night and good conversation.
*Even though I'm excited for the snow, I've got gardens, flowers, and spring peepers on my mind.
*Kayla is really enjoying writing stories lately. She's into a series about her and Jack. She even has a pen name- Comfort Meazle. Love love love the pen name!
*Sammy's favorite song right now is "10,000 Reasons." I guess he's had to listen to it over and over...
*Jack has been into learning magic tricks. He's got several books checked out about them and has learned some good ones.
*Lucy has some new words: weird and mean. Not sure what I think of those. She does, however, have a very sweet habit of telling me she loves me, a lot. Who wouldn't like that?
Sammy is ALL BOY. He's always jumping on (or off) of something. He made some sort of jumping/sliding thing here and down he went.
He and Lucy are still good buddies most of the time. I love her camo t-shirt and pink tutu.
This is what went out in the local paper Friday morning. Praying some new folks will find their way to church tomorrow.
Wow.
I thought I better do a little catching up before it's time for a birthday blog.
*They are calling for a big- maybe historic?- winter storm mid-week. I'm just a
*We had a nice dinner last night with my parents and Brian's parents. Hot soup on a cold night and good conversation.
*Even though I'm excited for the snow, I've got gardens, flowers, and spring peepers on my mind.
*Kayla is really enjoying writing stories lately. She's into a series about her and Jack. She even has a pen name- Comfort Meazle. Love love love the pen name!
*Sammy's favorite song right now is "10,000 Reasons." I guess he's had to listen to it over and over...
*Jack has been into learning magic tricks. He's got several books checked out about them and has learned some good ones.
*Lucy has some new words: weird and mean. Not sure what I think of those. She does, however, have a very sweet habit of telling me she loves me, a lot. Who wouldn't like that?
Sammy is ALL BOY. He's always jumping on (or off) of something. He made some sort of jumping/sliding thing here and down he went.
He and Lucy are still good buddies most of the time. I love her camo t-shirt and pink tutu.
This is what went out in the local paper Friday morning. Praying some new folks will find their way to church tomorrow.
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