tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209419912012-02-16T06:38:35.347-08:00Life happens at the dining room tableThe Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.comBlogger4511100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-28396976603876052122012-01-24T22:14:00.000-08:002012-01-24T22:14:02.028-08:00

It was "clean-out" day. I'm sure many can relate. He literally had "a bit of string" that he couldn't throw out. HECTOR THE COLLECTORby Shel Silverstein Hector the Collector Collected bits of string, Collected dolls with broken headsAnd rusty bells that would not ring. Pieces out of picture puzzles,Bent-up nails and ice-cream sticks,Twists of wires, worn-out tires, Paper bags and broken

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-60425338582395610642011-11-29T08:17:00.000-08:002011-11-29T08:17:44.263-08:00

The boys' copy-work I put together for the week. All of this "study of war" requires I teach what those people of war thought. CC History sentence: "In 1865 General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S Grant at Appomattox Courthouse in Virginia." “Although a soldier by profession, I have never felt any sort of fondness for war, and I have never advocated it, except as a means of

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-45723330150503609432011-11-12T19:45:00.000-08:002011-11-12T20:04:11.986-08:00

These people inspire me in the teaching of my students. I do not agree with all they say...but they inspire me. This also inspires me. Making my creative son write his spelling words in neat lines does not inspire me...or him. click on the photos to enlarge.  

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-1056325122071565382011-11-06T21:29:00.000-08:002011-11-06T21:40:24.492-08:00

I remember the days of longing...one boy, three girls: two rooms to split. I don't think I had my own room until high school. It's just the way it was. I never knew anything but sharing spaces. So when Lily came into the home it just seemed right: the boys share and the little baby girl gets her own room with dolls and silky blankies: a quiet retreat in which to slumber peacefully. For the last

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-89944019632394877922011-08-24T16:35:00.000-07:002011-08-24T16:35:55.208-07:00

"Ollie...you need to start cleaning up now. " "dubah dubah" "Hey mom..." "What Jake?" "Did you know that's Oliver's weird little language way of saying 'No'?"

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-16673013893007190422011-08-17T13:56:00.000-07:002011-08-17T14:11:52.063-07:00

Its gotten you. Sometime...somewhere along your road... Music of some kind has jumped out and grabbed you. And its power to draw emotion, feeling, and even steer us down paths cannot be denied. A wise man once said that "The music that really turns me on is either running toward God or away from God. Both recognize the pivot, that God is at the center of the jaunt." I guess it should not be a 

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-55124739808536009642011-08-13T13:17:00.000-07:002011-08-13T13:17:56.257-07:00

The big boys got to go camping. The littles had to stay behind. Nothing like being left with mom while your brothers and dad and uncle and grandpa drive away on a camping trip to make a boy feel small. Fortunately, I can still wave my motherly sway and turn their little broken hearts around with a simple hike in the forest. Ready for the hike Up the hill classic classic Ollie

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-26921270141547410952011-08-05T12:15:00.000-07:002011-08-05T12:15:26.353-07:00

The Albany River Rhythms has become quite a popular event. Especially when a country star comes to town singing "She Don't Know She's Beautiful." We had a wonderful time despite Josh spending much of his time in bathroom lines on three different potty occasions. On one such occasion Max, after gulping down much of Aunt Joy's drink, really had to go. Now. After dancing in line for a little while

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-89029921829727885572011-07-28T13:05:00.000-07:002011-07-28T13:05:44.972-07:00

Not many great grandparents would make a trek across state lines for the summer to work the harvest. But I sure am glad their's will. Josh's mom's parents are here from Idaho staying at a 4th generation farm and we had a great time visiting yesterday afternoon. * A note on great grandma - You will be hard pressed to find a more attention giving lady than Grandma

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-87419862922570078942011-07-23T20:55:00.000-07:002011-07-23T20:55:02.832-07:00

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-17238222245069963132011-07-18T20:19:00.000-07:002011-07-18T20:19:45.344-07:00

I am finally doing SOMETHING with my pictures to assure that they will remain safe if our computer crashes. That requires me to organize them and delete some of them. Hence, memories are flooding back in waves as I do this said chore. * sigh * They really are growing up. Good memories. More to come.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-7671021948163905972011-07-15T11:05:00.000-07:002011-07-15T11:08:39.602-07:00

Overheard during a game of guns and swords and other general battling... Jake: "Ollie, I shot you." Ollie: "I'm not dying. I didn't die." Jake: "But I SHOT you." Ollie: "No you didn't cause I'm not dying."  Jake: "Ollie...if you die then I will die next time...that makes it FUN."  Ollie: "But I don't want to die. I never want to die" Max: "Ollie...you are going to die SOME time. Everybody

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-32925684231167569292011-07-01T22:41:00.000-07:002011-07-02T08:54:30.319-07:00

Eight years ago I was in a Hungarian hospital holding my brand new baby boy. My first-born. I looked at him and could see so far into what I thought would be our future. But I couldn't see past about seven. I loved small children. I adored them. But an eight year old boy? Hmmm...that seemed awkward. pre-pre-pubescent, changes, body...stuff...I would have kept him little. I would have missed so

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-30032914954421442042011-06-13T21:18:00.000-07:002011-06-13T21:18:42.366-07:00

Heroes come in all uniforms. My hero wears many. Last week he wore the uniform of a full-time dad for the for my sisters weekend. Every week day he has worn a carpenter's uniform to support our family. Today he put on a brand new uniform: the medical professional one ;) Today (and for the next three weeks) he will be attending CNA training classes. Today starts our journey towards nursing

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-83290479115255414942011-05-04T22:13:00.000-07:002011-05-04T22:13:47.308-07:00

Every little girl should have tea parties. Lily's first was in celebration of the royal wedding...and a celebration of our mom...and daughters, and tea, and sisters, and nieces, and all the fine things about life as a girl. It is hard to say why I had such a good time, but it was something in the way she drank tea from her first tea cup (a gift to her from me), or how she twirled in front of a

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-85854698262770357982011-04-27T13:01:00.000-07:002011-04-27T17:54:12.409-07:00

I love Earth Day. Over the past few years it has been a joy to teach my children about the keeping of our planet and see them showing concern for the preservation of its beauty. The annual day is usually filled with fun activities that get our hands in the dirt or plastic off the ground. However, as this Earth day fell on our remembrance of the turning point of all of history, (namely the death

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-1674242254351092472011-04-19T21:21:00.000-07:002011-04-19T21:51:44.848-07:00

I found myself in the urgent care for the second time in two days. The pretty, young, professional-to-the-max Dr. questioned me regarding little Oliver who sat on my lap. "How long has he been sick?" "Three, two weeks? I don't know: everyone is sick at my house and I haven't kept track of who is sick when." This lady looks like she just walked off the scenes of a television hospital drama: blond

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-8999231793185723072011-04-18T07:21:00.000-07:002011-04-18T07:21:35.571-07:00

For each of the kiddos I have made a blanket for them... completed upon their arrival. All but Lily. I just couldn't find the one I wanted. A friend put a link of Facebook and it instantly caught my eye: "That's it!" So I'm at it... along with other girls doing a "crochet-along." Check back for my progress.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-75985487837378435542011-03-17T22:38:00.000-07:002011-03-17T22:38:06.593-07:00

"Some people just aren't math people." Sure, you've heard it. I've said it. But for my kids, I refuse to believe it. That said, Jake has never liked "math time." I say "math time" and not "math" because in the right situations, or with the right applications, he loves and uses math all the time. When the word "math" is said, however, he shuts off. That's all there is to it. Eyes glaze over, a

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-29389970760267306442011-03-13T10:52:00.000-07:002011-03-13T10:52:49.062-07:00

Two years ago we bought a membership to OMSI. During that year, our little "stroller sitters" became active toddlers who perfected the split and run strategy to drive parents crazy. Needless to say, OMSI was not the best place to practice our counter-strategies. So, we traded our OMSI family fun for Oregon Coast Aquarium and zoo fun. It fit well with that year's science (biology) as we were able

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-38809131903542464892011-02-12T20:00:00.000-08:002011-02-12T20:00:37.558-08:00

It happens every year: October rain, November rain, December rain, January rain, and then...when you think you can bear it no longer, the sun breaks! Those who have lived through enough winters in Oregon know one thing: it won't last and will be followed by several more months of rain, so make the most of it! Noah "Drexler" Yoder Admiring jewelery Good good friends...and lots of

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-87650248339030505862011-02-07T21:27:00.000-08:002011-02-07T21:27:19.330-08:00

 It is hard to imagine that it has been one year since this pre-walking, fast crawling sassy bundle of pink spent her days almost exclusively in my arms. Oh wait, I guess she still spends many hours in my arms; but she is louder now...and has more personality. Darlin'. Lilla-Belle. Bella. Lilac. Sweetheart. Baby-girl...The loving nicknames go on as her sparkling eyes and bright smile light up

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-62421408734457161612011-01-30T07:04:00.000-08:002011-01-30T07:04:01.709-08:00

I'll be honest: when I first found out that baby #5 would be arriving in late January, my only thought was, "well, as long as it isn't born right on my birthday." That "it" turned out to be a "she", and seven months later (on my birthday) I was given the best gift ever. One year later, during our first annual shopping trip, we wandered around the mall, touched pretty things, strolled down

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-38987282353906496802011-01-17T20:41:00.000-08:002011-01-17T20:41:29.306-08:00

I wonder today, while reflecting on the accomplishments of Martin Luther King Jr, just how my life would be different without him. I am not speaking of laws or policies. Who goes to school where or who drinks from what fountain. What I wonder is more personal. Closer to home. Had the wide river of society continued in its racist course, would I fall into the same sins?  Would you? The thought

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-25104130161203700492011-01-07T07:19:00.000-08:002011-01-07T07:20:31.853-08:00

Just a couple recent videos. The boys reviewing their CC work...Max makes me laugh...as does the commotion.  (Long but uncut for far-away-grandparents) Little Miss loves babies!

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-40251102855420102392010-11-16T14:50:00.000-08:002010-11-16T14:50:11.789-08:00

Sometimes I wonder as I look at my baby girl... How In the world...(of boys)  will she ever survive? I have a feeling there will be many boundaries set up in the years to come. 

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-47752097562925256982010-11-12T22:36:00.000-08:002010-11-12T22:36:58.596-08:00

Our country is at war. And I find myself torn between the debates of  "war" vs. "No war" as often as I find myself traveling between the two opposite cities in which I spend most of my days. On one hand, I hate war. And I say that with all the passion of a protester. I hate the killing of innocent people. I hate hearing of the fallen soldiers. I hate the cost of war. I hate the thought of our

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-37642764231995271192010-11-08T19:28:00.000-08:002010-11-08T19:29:25.192-08:00

I do not educate my children at home so that they might... get a great jobbecome the future world leaderswin spelling beesamaze people with their educational graspbecome richbecome wisebecome the smart ones of the culturego to Yaleor Princetonor Harvard Rather...the all encompassing goal of educating my kids is to glorify God with the knowledge they have in whatever path they choose. This is

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-55186391253138622422010-11-05T21:18:00.000-07:002010-11-05T21:18:20.642-07:00

There was much debate in the Yoder pre-Halloween household on whose costume Lily would be a part of. Both of the older ones wanted the little princess to adorn their side: Max claiming her as a Scottish princess and Jake insisting on her being England's little lady. In the end, (after reading the "less than nice" things about the ladies surrounding William Wallace's Scotland) Max allowed Jake to

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-19022845091491066112010-11-04T19:50:00.000-07:002010-11-04T19:50:31.785-07:00

This was the first year Max was independently inspired for his costume. It started last year with the study of the Celtic people. (who would paint themselves blue as their armor) SO...Painting blue on your body and running around screaming "FREEDOM" with a broad-sword and a look of fierce defiance equaled an easy choice for Max. Come to think of it, the character fit his "underdog" personality.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-25428320302836504282010-11-03T20:42:00.000-07:002010-11-03T20:42:02.157-07:00

Are there any impulsive people out there? You know who you are: thinking things through to their final conclusions and possible consequences simply takes too much time and spoils possible fun. You might as well just do it and get through it. Well, in this instance, beautiful floors will be the outcome, fun has been working together with Josh; the consequences? What consequences? "You mean living

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-20394349754826608692010-11-03T15:44:00.000-07:002010-11-03T15:46:41.114-07:00

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-80359826927050119002010-10-20T13:14:00.000-07:002010-10-20T13:14:50.283-07:00

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-17357978288027742452010-10-20T07:53:00.000-07:002010-10-20T07:53:47.367-07:00

We try to teach it to our children, yet sometimes it eludes us as adults. Today was not going to be that sort of moment. We started school off with Bible...then history (the favorite and usually reserved for the end). This week's lesson was focused on Japan. The reading was fun; however, having them work on dictations was like pulling teeth. As I sat for 30 minutes looking out at the beautiful

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-13881047248383709002010-10-14T10:57:00.000-07:002010-10-14T10:57:41.448-07:00

The old carpet What was underneath (and a sweet moment on daddy) Ollie and his monkey Into the dining room First time pulling up! Probably not a great place to do homework Max I wish they'd be as nice to their little brothers  "King puma" Week one: tearing it up. Next week: sanding. 

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-88837494590505577052010-10-08T21:15:00.000-07:002010-10-08T21:15:29.266-07:00

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-65798337737313308372010-10-08T07:45:00.000-07:002010-10-08T07:45:38.125-07:00

After a great long weekend with Josh home (which could be deemed great because of his sense of humor in his injury), Tuesday was "back to normal" day. As I was making progress on the annual Halloween Costumes, Max was up at the table asking me to dictate letters for him. I was quite surprised to see they were actually legible! "Mom! I figured it out: you just try to make them how they look in

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-42503110170805276122010-10-06T20:42:00.000-07:002010-10-06T20:42:25.294-07:00

I always wondered what happens when someone "throws out their back." Now I know. Upon having Jake fetch Josh for dinner, I was summoned to "go to daddy. Instead, I peaked out the window to the backyard. What I saw was Josh leaning on a post and looking intently at my clematis as the hose lay spraying towards it. "Hmm..." I thought. "That's weird...he has never shown interest in that plant

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-32189390680892476112010-09-29T20:56:00.000-07:002010-09-29T20:57:29.164-07:00

Who in her right mind would drive an hour out of her way to attend a meeting which lasts five minutes? Just so she can attend alone? Me. Guilty. Last year, we enrolled Max in the Early Intervention speech therapy class through the school system. It was invaluable. This year, however, he is not going to attend. The director was surprised (as he still "qualifies" for the class) and needed to

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-61187746118959575902010-09-29T14:24:00.000-07:002010-09-29T14:26:21.817-07:00

"Mom...I wish we were Mexican..."Because in Meheeco (too much Dora) they get piñatas on their birthdays." And so...there was a piñata for the September birthday party. You've got to admit...it is a pretty good tradition. waiting their turn don't peek Go for it Max  And there was candy And decorations... And, of course, there was cake. William Wallace Cake Perfect mix of

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-45886562456961561142010-09-29T08:05:00.000-07:002010-09-29T08:05:12.661-07:00

Happy New Year! To celebrate the Ethiopian New Year (a little late...it falls on Sept. 11) we headed to the coast to have a bonfire (at the suggestion on our friends David and Summer). Feeding the birds    Trying to get more "group" shots. But after Mom Y's comparison of them to the Little Rascals...that's all I can think of. Friends on the beach on a warm day.  Bon Fire A great evening.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-72175413910122946442010-09-24T21:32:00.000-07:002010-09-24T21:32:26.893-07:00

I loved the book: getting kids out of structured environments...away from adult organized sports teams and desks all in a row...letting them be kids.   The book looks back at the days when kids joined with lots of other neighborhood kids and played pick up games with their own rules, hierarchy, and social structures. The problem is...that's just hard to find.  Some "good team, bad team" game

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-58586071015366964492010-09-23T14:02:00.000-07:002010-09-23T16:50:21.516-07:00

In addition to our curriculum (more later) we have joined a Classical Conversations group. In a few words, this is a group which follows the classical model of the three stages of learning. Since my kids are in the grammar (or memorization) stage, there is a TON of memory work. Weekly memory topics include History sentences, English grammar, Latin grammar, Math, Science and Geography as well as

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-53389421683667909592010-09-21T21:04:00.000-07:002010-09-21T21:10:08.356-07:00

It makes me hold my breath and breath a sigh of relief all at the same time. They are actually playing together...with their own rules, adaptations and inventions. Their game is a mix of trading, choosing, requesting, and deciding. The other day it lasted for 30 minutes. These two crack me up. Double click to see the whole video.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-28233182915724287462010-09-21T20:21:00.000-07:002010-09-21T20:59:55.505-07:00

Week one brought an important realization regarding the scheduling of our days. Here it is...the number one rule for planning your school time......Schedules are good...they are great and necessary...BUT....every day will be different. Get used to it. Learn to teach (and teach them to learn) with flexibility and spontaneity...AND YET...(repeat from beginning)This is my mantra developed after only

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-16886523712434416162010-09-21T14:19:00.000-07:002010-09-21T14:46:29.956-07:00

Class of FiveThe PreschoolersThe Kindergarten KidSecond Grade Smartypants...and Little Miss "along for the ride"

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-30828939218677126482010-09-20T18:14:00.000-07:002010-09-21T07:41:43.133-07:00

I like to preempt people. Especially when it is a question I get all the time such as "Why did you decide to home school." Now I do understand that this is a perfectly fine question, as the reasons for homeschooling are many; but in the right mood, it is fun to ask "So...why did you decide to send your kids to public school?"My point is: each of us has decided to educate our children in a certain

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-25549790466853284552010-09-15T00:34:00.000-07:002010-09-16T13:34:16.700-07:00

What do you do when you come out of the room (after you have locked yourself in there for some quiet phone time) only to find three little boys running around totally naked? (and one who is waiting patiently to ask if he can take his clothes off as well)...?If you have totally given in to the nature of boys and are looking for a "schoolish" activity, you take the opportunity to teach a little

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-28752495376566959392010-09-09T20:46:00.000-07:002010-09-13T15:18:00.280-07:00

Someone mentioned the other day that they never *see* Lily. (That is...she does not make a regular appearance on any internet posting). Hmmm...why would this be? I suppose in a way it is because she isn't the one doing things...she just rides along...Oh wait. There you have it: she is constantly being carried by me. A seeming extension of my side; a little friend; a minny me. But don't let her

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-8882379645264645142010-09-03T13:46:00.000-07:002010-09-03T15:27:51.123-07:00

It always feels strange when the day of their births roll around. One year more removed from that wonderful day when I first saw his sweet rinked face.Five years ago Maxwell Nicholas was born...the second son. Greatness. I didn't know then that his name would fit so wonderfully, or what kind of little boy he would become. And in some ways, I still don't.Figuring out a middle child can be

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-49852318191649448152010-08-11T19:13:00.000-07:002010-08-16T20:28:14.073-07:00

Being best friends with your older brother is just plain hard at times. All of those "coming of age" things will always come sooner for Jake. Waiting is hard. Waiting is aggravating. But waiting produces great joy when it is over. Two summers ago I sat with a very sad Max as Jake drove away for his first backpacking trip with daddy. It was eased a little bit with a Starbucks treat, but only

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-10856360369988927352010-08-09T20:46:00.003-07:002010-08-09T21:31:44.935-07:00

Routine maintenance occurs in batches around our house. There is the clipping of 100 nails, the cleaning of 10 ears, the cutting of five heads of hair, etc. Today, it was the hair maintenance. I am yet to figure out hairstyles that look decent when they are long, so they get the "all boy buzz". Well, with the exception of Noah, whose hair has been somewhat neglected since the arrival of the

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-73840130257253572622010-08-08T20:51:00.000-07:002010-08-09T07:40:02.953-07:00

Oh the mundane moments of life. Day after day... nothing seems to change... and then BAM! your oldest son looses a tooth. Or Whoosh, he learns to ride his bike. WHAM! Max goes off on his first backpacking trip...Woah! The littles are going potty in the toilette (well...some of the time. These things don't happen all at once after all).Yes, there have been milestone moments around the Y. home this

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-55815458916440395492010-08-03T14:23:00.001-07:002010-08-05T17:32:33.789-07:00

Imagine living in a world where at any moment, a pack of wolves could come bounding down the street and attack you in broad daylight. Imagine hawks so strong they could grab your little brothers. Imagine a world where being sucked out of a plane was a valid possibility. A place where deadly poison could be snuck into your cup or where the wrong kind of plant could kill you via touch. This is the

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-46549177804333784432010-07-26T20:26:00.000-07:002010-07-27T09:19:12.929-07:00

...to say that Lily is six months old today! Liliana was a surprise in more than one way. First of all, the pregnancy was a bit of a surprise. Secondly, this was the only child I had one of those "feelings" about. I just knew she was a boy. So when the ultrasound tech began to spell out g.i.r.l. across the black and white screen, I was shocked. After one boy, there is no expectation. After two

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-76714080434352603142010-07-25T19:44:00.000-07:002010-07-26T08:18:32.716-07:00

As I said before, June just happened. Nothing much went on. Until I looked back at the photos. I guess things did happen in June. There was a classic small town paradePotty training was started...x2Took a MUCH anticipated trip to the aquarium to set ice cubes father free. Ice cube (for those who don't know) is a baby penguin. Max discovered his father and mother floundering in the gift shop. At

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-72180906139728157282010-07-20T07:20:00.000-07:002010-07-20T08:05:01.627-07:00

People came west for wide open spaces. They soon learned that Oregon has a fantastic growing season for those open spaces. Each year I am amazed at the sweet bounty that can be found by traveling in any direction and finding those small local farms dotted around the valley. Last year my picking goals were met with a wise dose of reality as I envisioned the littles in the midst of the colorful

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-50012283143820195302010-07-19T15:19:00.001-07:002010-07-19T18:27:16.480-07:00

I knew our summer was going to be busy...at least that's what the calendar said. But June was at an end and nothing was happening. Even the summer weather wasn't happening. I began to think, "maybe we'll just jump right into fall mode and start school again." Suddenly and without warning, berries ripened, Jake turned seven, family came, and the sun appeared.I'll try to catch up on the happenings

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-68014473054377174682010-07-08T20:40:00.000-07:002010-07-08T21:00:34.505-07:00

Two years ago today we were holding little Geda for the first time. I will never forget how still he was. He did nothing but lay on our chests. When we put him down we had to move his legs to see if they worked. No smiles. Only his eyes moved from side to side as he sucked quietly on his finger. I remember watching the other children laughing and smiling at their parents and wondering...when

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-6452927697036878782010-06-21T12:52:00.000-07:002010-06-21T13:17:57.125-07:00

We teach our children of God, His love and His grace, His perfection, His sovereignty and His power. His sacraments...Yes...the sacraments. Raised Baptist (and Mennonite) grew in faith at Calvary Chapel, and now settled Presbyterian. Cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents are a mix of Calvary, Baptist, Episcopalian (or is it Anglican?) and Presbyterian. Needless to say, the sacraments will be

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-84466667262942603182010-06-20T15:38:00.001-07:002010-06-20T15:54:19.235-07:00

You are a dear sister, a dear friend, and an awesome auntie! We love you!!Here is your song. We tried. ;) At the end you are supposed to blow out the candles. Blow hard.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-22416788416202704112010-06-14T13:52:00.002-07:002010-06-14T14:29:33.720-07:00

Just one of the many happenings of this weekend. Hello summer! I believe this one started as a whine "SOMEONE THREW MUD AT ME!!!" followed by some fatherly advice to "well throw it back!" All's well that ends well.a little war paintSome mud in the mouthAnd then came the wash-offLils watched from a distance

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-88404010030522008782010-06-11T07:37:00.000-07:002010-06-11T13:50:05.920-07:00

A friend once described Lily of the Valley as "a delicate white flower in the midst of broad stalks." I smiled. She is our Lily of the Valley. Our beauty child amidst all the masculine. The pink sleeper in a pile of blue laundry. The Princess among the Little Princes. Yes, to many she is simply another child. Nothing out of the ordinary...but she is our treasure. Our miracle. And we love her.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-25232507917011169572010-06-08T20:43:00.000-07:002010-06-08T21:27:37.637-07:00

The barrier between outside and inside appro-priateness has been blurred for some time. "Outside voice" has never carried much weight around here and sticks always manage to sneak their way within the walls and into secret hiding places where they will be safe from the yard debris can. But this spring it appears as if the barrier has simply been broken down. Plummeted. Shattered. (or whatever

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-60037712470536473962010-06-05T21:40:00.000-07:002010-06-05T22:18:09.616-07:00

What were your uncles like growing up? Maybe it just falls as natural consequence being the daughter of parents on the "younger sibling" side of life. I loved my uncles (don't get me wrong) and always felt loved by them. But lets just say none of them played in a band. (At least not in my days) and most already had children of their own. My boys will have quite a different story to tell. Uncle

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-124397637921722352010-06-02T20:53:00.000-07:002010-06-02T23:26:34.316-07:00

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-77901665117559119122010-05-22T21:15:00.000-07:002010-05-22T21:23:41.197-07:00

Josh had Monday and Tuesday off. What a oasis in the middle of a chaotic ocean of life! We took the day to go to the zoo and had a fabulous day together.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-26587791422184794622010-05-16T20:51:00.000-07:002010-05-16T21:43:27.309-07:00

I remember our first Sunday with four... thinking of getting four kids ready for church and in the doors in a presentable fashion was nerve wracking. Now, with five, it all just kind of falls into place. We may be a little disheveled; may not have perfectly pressed clothes or spotless pants ("Max, did you put these away dirty?") Yes, at times there is even the remnant of breakfast of their tiny

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-3707706282303556012010-05-16T20:45:00.001-07:002010-05-16T20:51:25.819-07:00

"Ollie...can I have a bite?""Yes."He didn't get another bite from Oliver.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-52867467648684805402010-05-14T20:28:00.001-07:002010-05-14T22:41:59.656-07:00

Those eyes can melt your heart. Be warned. Okay...so can those. SmittenThe best kind of freedom has fences.Some prisoner game with a bungee cord. "Noah, you have GOT to come and see this!"I like sun hats more than Lily.Family: worth every moment.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-57331997165931901222010-05-09T21:23:00.000-07:002010-05-09T22:21:05.607-07:00

A sunny day at the kid's favorite park is a recipe for a happy mother's day. Add sisters, friends, and a husband to help watch and it gets even better. Of course, having our mom's there would have been the best thing. We missed you. I am putting this up as quickly as possible because I know this is probably the next best thing to being there.The baby was adorable...as usual...and had plenty of

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-45136638677977114942010-04-29T14:01:00.000-07:002010-04-29T14:15:58.989-07:00

Here's for you family and friends who would like to see some random real time moments of the kids. Not still life. ;I try to give jobs. I really do try, even though they usually take more time than they save. In this instance, I asked Jake if he could put on Lily's socks. By the time he had started, the rest of the boys were ready to head out the door. Typical playtime with Dad.Lily will not sit

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-44048145222651847632010-04-26T19:28:00.001-07:002010-04-27T13:19:02.093-07:00

Just arrivedOne monthTwo monthsMy three month old angel.I was doing okay with the fact that Lily hit the three month mark. Until, that is, Jake and I were working on a math lesson on quarters and I realized that it was Lily's quarter of a year birthday. My sweet Lilabelle has hit the milestone of no longer feeling like a "newborn." In fact...there are times she even wants to be put down! And even

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-58609158025431743192010-04-23T19:37:00.000-07:002010-04-24T08:44:27.190-07:00

Adoption...its a good thing. It is my hope to have one of those signs along the highway which reads "Adopt a Highway sponsored by A Family of Seven." But alas, I think it may raise some eyebrows to have preschool children along the roadside. It may have to wait a few years.So instead, for Earth Day, we headed down to the Corvallis riverfront to clean up what litter we could find. Janine and the

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-15223869529657429802010-04-19T21:42:00.000-07:002010-04-20T13:04:17.179-07:00

My mind is too numb from today's activity to even think of composing much. Monday - Wednesday are like that. Especially after a day like today (loud and chaotic) and an evening of trying to figure out what to do differently or who the main "culprit" is in the mix. They like to mix it up on me however and trade days. Today it was Ollie who...well...just doesn't like to be told what to do. Noah was

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-24946107877432217562010-04-16T10:40:00.000-07:002010-04-16T11:23:59.916-07:00

Two years ago, we got the call we'd been waiting to hear. The face we'd dreamt of seeing. Two years ago, Noah was referred to our family and our hearts will forever be bound to him.We love you to the moon, little man.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-62079373638824203232010-04-14T15:03:00.001-07:002010-04-14T15:06:48.836-07:00

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-87130960427641735522010-04-11T13:32:00.000-07:002010-04-11T15:08:44.580-07:00

Family self portraits are getting more difficult each year. I think it is time to get a remote. Anyhow, by request, here are the Good Friday and Easter pictures of the family.Okay...boy' s first. Lets do a serious one:Alright, good...but look at me this time...Noah stay there. Good enough.Jake looking dapper.My handsome boys.Hats were a fun break...alright...now for a family shot:There ya have

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-37540668520917426672010-04-10T15:10:00.000-07:002010-04-10T15:51:51.370-07:00

We always try to make a point to go up to the events that our adoption agency puts together; (such a drag since they choose gathering places such as the Portland Children's Museum ;) and I always come away with two feelings. 1. The desire to adopt again and 2. The desire to move to Portland. Seriously, adoption communities (at least this one) have to be the greatest people on earth, and Lily will

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-70486593338377487402010-04-06T21:17:00.000-07:002010-04-06T21:53:00.301-07:00

Noah asked for a kiss during lunch. Seeing the happiness it brought, Max asked to give one. Then Ollie...then Jake.This is what I saw. I am blessed. Truly. Simply. Blessed.On a side note, our praying mantis egg case hatched......and I love dresses on my little girlie.

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-51362577803280329752010-03-28T19:49:00.001-07:002010-03-29T13:04:11.120-07:00

The school year is close to over. Can it be true? It certainly felt true as we set off for our science field trip to review all we learned in first grade life science. Science has indeed been one of my favorite subjects to teach. Because I myself am scientifically minded? Oh no no no. But because I get to see passion for something grow in my child...not because he is mirroring us, but because God

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-74301143288509324712010-03-26T08:04:00.001-07:002010-03-26T08:35:58.949-07:00

Caught in a sneeze

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-18798626832593551372010-03-23T14:29:00.000-07:002010-03-23T14:33:09.047-07:00

Want to make a kid's day? Send a letter! Thank you Grandma D. It is safely tucked into his special box. This is for you...others feel free to watch...there is always SOMEthing entertaining when four small boys are in front of a camera. Especially towards the end when boredom sets in.Double click to see its full size

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-38347302076994585482010-03-21T15:55:00.000-07:002010-03-21T16:29:51.249-07:00

One should take good care in the choosing of a name if that child is set up arrive around the turn of spring. It is true that we named Oliver for its meaning of "peace" however, our little equinox child more fittingly holds to the (then unknown to us) alternate meaning of his name. There is something in his laugh...something in the glimmer of his eyes...something entrancing about Ollie that

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-5547700956540090302010-03-19T20:04:00.000-07:002010-03-19T20:46:34.049-07:00

I could say that my photos these days are not the quality I would like them to be and therefore will not be blogged, but I can already hear groans from far-away relatives, so...here ya go! Some favorite moments from the week. :)The FavoriteRunners up:Daddy's holdDarn those gates!Spring bubblesTwo boys, one loveOllie set this one up. Playmobil: seriously the best toy we ever invested in!Making

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-42014923748445506962010-03-18T20:55:00.000-07:002010-03-19T13:11:38.772-07:00

What is done in schools for the celebration of this holiday? I really have no idea...as I myself was home schooled and also "missed out" on the fun party days of elementary classroom education. Do I feel badly depriving my kids of this? Well, no, because selfishly I would be deprived of celebrating these days if the munchkins were divided up into their own classrooms. And hey...we had a blast!

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-55833296751791095362010-03-12T22:06:00.000-08:002010-03-12T22:27:29.377-08:00

Love those eyesAnd of course the toesPreferred method of residence.Chubby smileBig brother loveBig brother protection: three against one. Though he loves her, Ollie has not gained a trusted reputation around LilyAs far away as I can get my hand to take a picture: snug as a bugThe "waking baby" faceHappy Weekend!

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-12244306255722988702010-03-11T21:36:00.000-08:002010-03-11T22:04:35.091-08:00

Only a homeschooling mom would bring over a half dissected fish to pick apart.Only a homeschooling mom would be happy to have this happen.Science for today, check!Jake did not appreciate the smelling...or the touching part. These were a hitThe little ones were quite amused (and very "hands on") Max wanted to keep some things to show Josh. This one is for you, Mom Y.(Sorry...I just couldn't help

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-56227766341216154462010-03-10T19:51:00.000-08:002010-03-10T20:23:21.272-08:00

Little boy, I love your hair. I love it crazy, I Love it in twists, I love it short or long, done or wild. I hope you love it too...because it is what God gave you. I hope you never worry what people think or wish it was another way. But if you do, I will help you to understand that you are not your hair. You are beautiful because of the soul God gave you. You are beautiful because you are a

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-10268978586397808872010-03-08T20:10:00.001-08:002010-03-08T20:51:10.815-08:00

Some consider it immoral. I have no opinion. Perhaps that is why I find the issue so hard to talk about. What issue is that? Overpopulation.I never truly considered that the people I encounter with their sideways glances and short comments considered large families wrong justfor being large until one day while I was at a favorite park (in the heart of downtown Corvallis). In a typical

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-19144546326907732202010-03-05T09:45:00.000-08:002010-03-05T10:35:21.430-08:00

Many reasons why this little window into our lives has been closed lately. Much of course has to do with the fact that the moments are rare when I have more than one-minute intervals on the computer (I'm becoming a fan of Facebook for its allowance of quick posting/catching up features).Or maybe I just like to have the blinds closed sometimes.I have started writing about being a conspicuous

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-60925867127378201962010-02-27T22:48:00.000-08:002010-02-27T22:51:03.552-08:00

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-73544265563222799702010-02-04T21:00:00.000-08:002010-02-10T20:54:44.319-08:00

It has been two weeks since a little explosion of color and sweetness came into our lives. Who knew she would so quickly capture six hearts? Each morning as I carry the tiny bundle out after she has slept in through the morning commotion which is, I am surrounded by chantings of "Lily! Lily!" and "Wiwi, Wiwi!" and "Biwi!"; as four mouths strain up to kiss her soft head. She is doted on,

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-6885682430709070492010-01-31T12:19:00.000-08:002010-01-31T12:37:48.563-08:00

Two sermons worthy of our time; Two issues worthy of our Christian passion"This weekend is Martin Luther King weekend, next week is the Sanctity of Life weekend...they just happen to come back to back each year. One is a democratic issue, the other is a Republican issue. Shouldn't be that way, and I don't give a rip about what party it is. I care a lot about this: Jesus is my king, no man and no

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-87399657608288462322010-01-27T17:06:00.000-08:002010-01-27T18:10:52.559-08:00

On Tuesday, January 26th, 1982 I became a daughter. 28 years later - on a Tuesday - I got a daughter of my own. Lily arrived safely into the lighted world at 3:30pm weighing 7lbs 3oz. We rejoice for our newest little miracle. ****We would have been good to go home today (Wednesday) except for the fact that Lily was a bit jaundiced. She is now having her first tanning bed time under the lights in

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-83500004586073816632010-01-18T15:48:00.000-08:002010-01-18T15:55:17.432-08:00

Max: "I love God SO much I wish I could SEE Him."Jake: "Are you sure? I love God, but I don't want to see Him because then you will DIE!"Max: "SOMEday I will see God"Jake: "Yeah....but you will already be dead because it will be in heaven....and you can't die twice."Max: "Maybe...you can be BORN twice!"Jake: "Hmmm...I don't know Max. Go ask mom."

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-88841216056566728132010-01-06T20:05:00.000-08:002010-01-06T20:30:22.592-08:00

Homeschooling during one's first year is full of adjustments. The plan on paper during August and the detailed schedule looks so neat...so workable. However, reality sets in quickly as the dynamics of personalities, actualities, and learning styles collide. One such collision has come in the form of an overactive imagination (on good days) and simple absent mindedness (on tired days). The result

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-59397255879426431162010-01-05T18:49:00.000-08:002010-01-05T19:50:11.080-08:00

This year, instead of renewing our OMSI membership with our Christmas money, we decided to trade it in for a different membership. It wasn't that we didn't enjoy OMSI. On the contrary, it was a blast. So before it expired, we took one last trip.Buttons to pushDaddy enjoyed it as much as the kids I think!"Hey! Why can't we get into this one?!"Samson the T-RexWe have great memories here. Also, we

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-68194422877000881872009-12-24T22:56:00.000-08:002009-12-24T23:40:32.334-08:00

It's late on the Eve of Christmas. Boys will undoubtedly be rising early with anticipation of the "favorite day of the whole year." So rather than wordiness, I will simply give some pictures into our lives and rely on the thousands of words that they can convey. Each year we give pj's as a Christmas Eve gift. This year we decided to mix it up a little. Once blindfolded, we dressed them and then

The Seven of Ushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663647667275488323noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20941991.post-22335385851829752382009-12-21T15:26:00.000-08:002009-12-21T16:13:50.822-08:00

They come to mind way before Christmas day as we think of what we will get each other. Stressful for some, but for many it is also a time of joy...anticipating the joy of the ones we love.Last night after the babies went to bed, Jake and Max and I set in to prepare their gifts while at the same time having their first lesson in sewing.Cutting and pinningDon't forget to take those pins OUTAnd away

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