Our Weekend Extravaganza (or How to Climb a Coliseum)

We had one of those "full to the brim" weekends....

SATURDAY:

The girls and their daddy went to the company picnic on Saturday at Oaks Park. (This is a very old amusement park, complete with an old-fashioned roller rink and a beautiful old pipe organ.)
The girls were actually glad Mommy didn't come this time, since they rode on ride after ride....after ride. Daddy didn't bring them home until seven hours later. I think Mommy would have cramped their style.


SUNDAY (bigger day, yet!):

After church, my mom drove up and she and I- along with my seven year old daughter- drove to Portland to see the show we bought tickets for nearly six months back. The long-awaited....(drum roll please)...Champions On Ice!

My little girl watched the Olympics with me and she and I love ice skating. (She's a huge fan of Sasha Cohen!)
We three generations of gals had so much fun seeing all the Olympic stars skate in person! Well sort of in person. The seats? Well, let's just say that we basically had to climb Mt. Everest to find them. I was trying to keep my 79 year old mom stable, my seven year old stable, and myself stable....and when we got to our row, I can tell you that I never had a severe fear of heights before but came very close to developing one then and there as I tried to maneuver through the 1 inch space in front of our seats and then look down to see what seemed like a complete drop down in the vastness- or, rather to the skating rink below.....(can someone hand me a paper bag to breath into?....Ok...I'm fine now....)
My daughter had brought a stuffed animal with her and when I (jokingly...ha) said I was nervous way up there, she affably handed the cuddly thing to me...and don't think I didn't take it!

At intermission we moved like circus tightrope performers from our precarious perch, and headed down, about ten rows or so below to some some unused seats. I cannot stress how much better this position made me feel! And we were even able to now catch it when Michelle Kwan flashed a big grin in our general direction.

I have to say that the show was super....great performances from each and every one. There was comedic tumbling-skate act that was incredible and the male gold medal winner, Plushenko, was extrordinary to watch. The finale was a show-stopper with a lot of great old songs, the last being a recording of the exciting "Sing, sing, sing"( featuring the Big Band drummer, Gene Krupa) and it honestly reminded me of the finale of a fireworks display. The skaters were totally into the music and their energy was flying off everywhere!

It was worth the blocks of walking in the city with my trooper of a mom, the yet more blocks of walking around the circular top floor of the coliseum, and the death-defying balancing act from atop the building just to see these medal-winners do their stuff- with my mom and daughter beside me. Yes, even worth it just to see the look on my little girl's face and hear her blow her little whistle every time it was our section's turn to cheer for a skater. (Go Sasha!)

Oh...and all the while, my husband had a date with our four year old daughter at the zoo. Then we all met up at his brother's house to celebrate a sister's 50th birthday! (And may I just say that my sister in law is a petite little thing with nary a wrinkle and doesn't look a day over 35- seriously!)

Yep... as you can see, it's been a slightly over-stuffed weekend and we're all a little bit tuckered out (as my grandmother use to say). But would we all do it again if given the chance? You bet! But next time I'll mortgage something and sit close enough to catch Victor Petrenko's hat as he cooly tosses it during a turn...

Edited to not only correct hurried mistakes as I headed out the door...but to add that the above picture was taken during hubby and lil' cherub's Sunday's zoo trip. I thought it aptly described our fast-moving weekend! :)

Tour of Homes day!

Welcome! My home is ever-so-humble, but make yourself at home...



We bought this house while expecting our second daughter, now four. We've done a little fixing up here and there, but it still needs some work. And with two children (as many of you know) it often has that "lived-in look". But it's homey and overall, we like it.








Here is my diningroom (which is attached to the kitchen). Notice the balloons still up from a previous birthday party! We love keeping decorations up for a loooooong time! lol Gives the home that festive feel, don't you think?





And over here...our living room. Actually, it does look much bigger in person and I didn't get all of it in my lens. As you can see, I didn't make the living room spotless, because this is how it usually is (on a good day). The sofa looks a bit crooked since the recliner side is out. I left it this way since I love the recliner sections of out sofa\loveseat set. We bought this set new when we moved in, and has really been working overtime to survive two small kids. It's one of the only new pieces that we have ever bought as a family and though perhaps a little too dark in color, have been well worth it.







And here's...and here's... the blogging desk! Hmmm....this area needs a bit of work....my husband and I both have just a wee bit too much clutter in this area. (Can we say, Mission Organization?) But somehow, even as is, it's still a fairly nice corner for us. (Notice the pillow on the chair? I have to have it behind my back, but hubby doesn't want it so we're constantly playing hot potato with it whenever the next person takes a turn.)








Here's one of my favorite areas, especially in summertime. Our little back yard has a much-used swingset, some nice shady trees, and a deck (which sorry, I didn't get into the picture) that my husband built. We also have a little patch of veggie garden (unseen) to the left. Oh- and notice at the top right of the picture, part of our umbrella table. Ever since I was a kid, I knew that when I grew up and got married, I wanted to have an umbrella table. I finally got one a few years ago! Oh- and the patch of blue in the back? That's our swimming pool that every time we patch it, somehow gets an new hole, so it's sitting over in the back...deflated. Poor thing.



So, there you have it. My little corner of the world. Not very fancy, but it's home. Glad you all stopped by for a visit, anyway!

God bless and enjoy the rest of the tour!

Breakfast Time

Disclaimer: The following childish (and rather gross) conversation took place a few minutes ago. Please do not read while eating your cheerios- or worse- sipping your juice.

My two girls are just now finishing their cereal this morning, and as I was working on a different post a few minutes ago, I hear, in a concerned voice...
7 yr old girlie: " Mommy....Mommy? What happens if you eat a bugar?"

Mommy: "Um...nothing." (Ok, I'm afraid to ask...so I continue typing...)

7 yr old girlie: "Would it taste good?"

Mommy: "No!" (Yes, she's seven, not two, you must remember...)

7 yr old girlie: "I think there might be a bugar in my juice."

Mommy: "How?" (type, type...)

7 yr old girlie: "I don't know..."

Mommy: "Then don't drink it. " (type, type...)

7 yr old girlie: "Can I have some different juice?"

Mommy: "I guess so..."

4 yr. old cherub: "Mommy, can I please have some juice, but without bugars in it?"

Mommy: "Yes."

7 yr old girlie: "I really think my juice has a bugar in it..."

4 yr old cherub: "Next time, put the bugars back in your nose and drink it."

And to think they say you can't have stimulating conversations as a stay at home mom!

Wordless Wednesday...

My oldest munchkin (who's now seven!) with Pooh and Tigger...my first wordless Wednesday- guess I need to work on the "wordless" part. :)
P.S....don't forget to read my youngest one's meme posted right before I posted the pic! :)

Lil' Cherub's Meme

I was not "officially" tagged...but Laura over at Here and Now said that Lou tagged any other baby who wanted to play. And my littlest, who's four, isn't exactly a baby anymore, but thought she close enough! Then, even better, Code Yellow Mom tagged all preschoolers! (Sorry- still don't have that linking thing down yet)

So here's her (and my) first meme:

3 Things That Scare Me
1. spiders
2. flying bugs
3. going to sleep without mommy lying beside me for awhile.

3 People That Make Me Laugh
1. Big sissy
2. Daddy
3. Sometimes even Mommy

3 Things I Love
1. playing preschool computer games
2. Strawberry Shortcake
3. Animals

3 Things I Hate
1. slobbery kisses (even from mommy!)
2. most dinners
3. when mommy reads to big sissy from Chapter books!

3 Things I Don't Understand
1. Why I wasn't born first
2. Why I have to have my hair brushed...ever
3. Why I can't have candy all day

3 Things On My Desk/Table
1. crayons
2. paper
3. lots of crayon marks

3 Things I'm Doing Right Now
1. Playing in the sprinkler with Sissy
2. Shreiking a lot
3. Running often for the towel

3 Things I want to do some day
1. Go to Disneyland
2. Ride a bike ( like my big sister)
3. Marry Daddy

3 Things I Can Do
1. Ride my trike!
2. Dance gracefully
3. Kick a mean soccer ball (just like her big sister)

3 Ways to Describe My Personality
1. Silly
2. Sometimes a little whiney
3. Very, very sweet

3 Things I Can't Do
1. Ride a bike like my sister
2. Sit still to have my hair brushed (unless whining loudly- see previous post)
3. Do the monkey bars like my sister

3 Things I Think You Should Listen To
1. My little songs that I make up
2. When I've memorized my Bible verses for "Cubbies"
3. Anytime I want my voice to be heard!

3 Absolute Favorite Foods
1. Yogurt
2. Milk
3. corn

3 Things I'd Like to Learn
1. To learn to read like my sister
2. To ride a bike (like my sister)
3. Do the monkey bars (again...like my sister. She can do everything- so frustrating!)

3 Beverages I Drink Regularly
1. Water
2. Milk
3. Smoothies made in the blender

3 Shows I Watched as a Kid
1. Dora
2. Little Einsteins
3. Wonderpets

This first meme was fun! Ok...she also tags anyone under 5....and please reply so I can read yours! Ready...GO!

Reluctant Instrument

Last month, my husband came home from work telling me of a need his co-worker had for a temporary sitter. She was a single mom, with a daughter exactly the same age as my oldest.
Also, I should add, that our family budget had recently been put on a diet, due to some expenditures that all seemed to happen simutaniously. As part of a single paycheck home and new homeschool family, this would be my little chance to help out a bit in that area, since the mom would be paying.

My first response was not one that I'm especailly proud of. You see, the month of June was a particularly busy one for me...we were starting our first swimming classes for both girls, a tumbling class, and VBS not one- but two separate weeks. Looking back, I realize how lame all of this sounds... but on the other hand, I was feeling very overwhelmed by the marked calendar before me. Besides...I had never heard of this co-worker before then, and didn't know anything about them. What if this girl would be a handful? Cause friction with my children? Use bad language? What if, what if...?

Well, my dear hubby allowed me to say no without pressing the point, but did mention it one more time, just a few days later. It would actually be one less day than originally thought, and she was very desparate.
I was weakening.

"Alright...but under one condition," I told him in my no-nonsense way. "That is the week of Vacation Bible School. Her mom would have to agree to let her attend, as well."

The mom gladly agreed, though their family never darkened a church door, normally. I took a deep breath, and then prayed for a smooth week. And all the while, God was tugging at my heart... I found out that she would be leaving across country to live with her grandma for the rest of the summer, following her week with us. And I began to pray for her now, in earnest. I prayed that God would use this time with us to show Himself to her...while at VBS and while in our home. And the sweet part was when my seven year old would pray for her, also. Praying that she would some day ask Jesus into her heart and know Him.

The first morning, we woke up early and drove to my husband's work where she was eagerly waiting. She was very excited (and so was my daughter) even though they had never met. I liked her immediately. She seemed so spunky and cheerful, in spite of some of the past that she had to endure, possibly from an abusive father. She loved chattering away and she made my girls laugh almost immediately. We were off to a good start!

Each day, when I'd pick them up from VBS, I was delighted to hear how much fun they were having. It was the popular pirate theme for this camp, complete with loud, foot-stamping pirates singing with the kids at the beginning and end of each day. We parents were, for the most part, covering our ears...but all of the kids couldn't get enough of it. And along the way, they were also learning about Jesus.

The older kids were assigned "homework" where they'd have to read verses (if they so chose to) and write out a prayer in their own words something that had to do with the verse. Each day, both little girls (just out of first grade, mind you!) dutifully did their homework. There were a few opennings during this time where I was able to share something with her about God. She knew so very little and was like a sponge when the smallest of droplets fell her way.

I had found out that Thursday was her 7th birthday. (Just nine days before my own daughter's.) I hadn't really planned on doing anything, but while they were at VBS, and my youngest was with me doing errands, I found myself in the Christian book store. Before I knew it, I had two employees helping me search for the perfect, yet inexpensive children's book to give her. I finally settled on a Bible story book, wrote a note inside, wrapped it up, and bought a balloon.

She seemed amazed at the fact that we would give her something after just meeting her, and though she expressed her thanks, I wondered at her quietness as she viewed her Bible book. Was she expecting a toy and was disappointed?

The next evening, after her last day with us and lots of goodbyes and hugs, my husband told me what her mother had said to him that day. Apparently, her mother had come into her room and she was reading it...and then, when she was done, she had put in under her pillow so she could sleep with it.

Even now, this image touches my heart so much. God loves this little girl and so used us in such a simple, but profound way. Yet, in it all, I was the one that was blessed just as much, if not more. She was spunky yet polite...cheerful, yet I could see that deep down hunger for the God she had never known about before. She played beautifully with our girls- and each day that she was here, saw more fun to be had...playing pirates in the back yard...dressing up in fancy clothes just because...It just seemed as if our family had known her all of our lives.

I learned so many lessons from this recent experience...about reaching out to others in spite of our "full schedule"... about being willing to disrupt my daily routine just a bit so that maybe God can use me in some small way... about not constantly focusing on my own little family life to the point of not seeing those around me....those hurting, those in physical need... and those that need a Savior.

I am the first to admit that I am selfish my nature. Perhaps we all are to a certain extent, but sometimes I feel this is a great flaw of mine which I constantly seem to have to battle. But perhaps, after seeing what God did in all of our lives when I submitted to His leading in this small week out of my life, I won't be as slow to listen next time.

Because when all is said and done, if we let Him use us- even in the little ways- to be a blessing to others, we sometimes get a beautiful surprise. We also become the receiver of His Gifts in ways we previously wouldn't have expected. And I'm here to say that He can even use those of us that think we're too busy- too scattered with tasks and stretched too thin- and yes, too self-absorbed at times to see beyond our own little world to the world outside.

Even someone like me.

A Mother's Tale of Hair Woes

OK, mommies... is this something strange about my own four year old, or does anyone else on the planet go through the same thing?

My littlest cherub has always detested having her hair brushed. But now, at age four, she has declared an all-out battle cry against The Brush. Every day, I dread it as much as she does. No, more. Here's a sampling of what goes on each morning:

Cherub: "Not that hairbrush... I want the other hairbrush!" (the one that glosses over the surface of her tangles without dismantling them.)

Mommy (after finding The Other Brush): "OK...let's put some detangler spray in your hair..."
(*squirt*)

Cherub: " ahhh-ha-he..." (Half-fake whine-cry)

Mommy: "See...I'm brushing as gently as I can." (Carefully holding the hair above difficult snarls so as not to disturb her tender scalp.)

Cherub: "Ahhhhh! That hurts! Ahhh...." escaping from my clutches..."I'm taking a break now, Mommy... "

I kid you not when I say this is probably the script in our house each and every day.
And cute ponytails? Braids? Ribbons? Forget it... no self-respecting hair bobble would dare come near her tresses- or at least and live to tell about it.

Anyone reading who perhaps has only boys- and had ever had the faintest hint of ribbon envy- need not feel a twinge when it comes to my little Brushaphobic.

My oldest somehow managed to be born without painfully sensitive hair folicles. She will gladly bring me The Brush (or The Other Brush)...or in her newfound seven year old independence, even voluntarily use The Brush on ...*gasp*...herself. Has wanting to be like Big Sissy had any positive influence on my impressionable four year old? No...my little matted-hair cherub simply stares at her as if she's lost her mind and then hurries off, tangles flying, to play as far away as she can from The Brush.

Do I sometimes find myself...like right before church... resorting to coralling her little stray hairs into place (as gently as I can without performing some sort of high school wrestling move) so that she looks somewhat presentable? Yes...you can be sure of it! But is it worth it do so everyday? Hmmm....I'm still in debate over this one. For now, if it's not churchtime, a birthday party, or a luncheon with the govenor in his mansion, I resign myself to as many strokes of The Brush as is allowed before war insues. Afterall, a mommy has to pick and choose her battles, and some days I feel just a bit wartorn.

So, if anyone reading this has some great advice on this problem, please don't hesitate to share it!

In the meantime...the next time you see a cute little four year old playing in the park with scraggly, matted tangles surrounding her sweet little face... please don't be too quick to judge her mother in the area of grooming and good hygene. The tired, winded, defeated-looking woman panting on the nearby bench with a hairbrush in her hand just could be someone you know.

They're back...

Has it really been four days since my last post? Well, perhaps it was because I was delibrately trying to keep myself from this new blogging habit as much as humanly possible so that I could take advantage of my "alone time". But it wasn't easy! I kept coming back... replying a lot... and lurking even more.

And now that the time is over, here is what happend:

I found that I accomplished just little molecules of eveything on my list...story writing, scrapbooking, reading on my deck...oh, and house cleaning. And I did have some uninterruped time reading God's Word, which as all moms know, can be a luxury in itself. My mom drove up to spend one night, too, so I wasn't with complete solitude the whole time. (Read: Didn't resort to walking around the house and mumbling to myself...at least not too much.)

All in all, I have to say that I enjoyed my mommy vacation. A lot. It was like a balm to this tired homeschooling mom, who has spent the last year teaching, chauffering, cooking cleaning and waiting on family. Not that I haven't enjoyed many of those jobs, but as with all jobs, we all need a break now and then...and time just to hear ourselves think.

But... when the three days were over, I found myself continuously looking at the clock, excitedly awaiting my family's return. In the early evening, I was outside reading when I heard the door open. I came in to see my husband put our sleeping four year old on the futon...oh, how I longed to hold her! After giving hubby a kiss, he went to unload the car and before my oldest came in, I found myself sitting next to my sleeping child, just watching her... I gave her a kiss on the forehead and she slept on. My heart was putty just at the sight of her again, and my strong emotions frankly surprised me a bit.
Then my seven year old came in looking very sunkissed and we spent the remainder of the evening cuddling on the sofa while she told me all about the trip. I couldn't stop hugging her!

Oh...and yes, I missed my husband too. But between the long drive, unloading the car, and being the sole parent for three days, he was pretty much done for. After a half-hearted hug, he trudged up the stairs to bed. Ahh, well.

As for their adventure, they all assured me it was great fun. Except for the drive over there. My littlest hadn't eaten much and on the curvatious twist and turns toward the coast, became carsick for the very first time. Hubby, in his quick thinking, handed her the sand pail, where she compliantly tossed her cookies, or lack thereof, into the waiting vessel. She was fine for the rest of their campout (and hopefully, they scoured the pail before filling it up with sand.)

On a better note, they unexpectantly ran into some friends of ours from the home school group and the girls all spent lots of fun hours playing together at the beach.

I wish I could post a wonderful shot of my family's adventure, but sadly, the memory card wasn't placed back into the digital camera they brought...so we are awaiting the old-fashioned film to be developed from my daughter's $5 instamatic. Still, I know the memories they made were wonderful and exciting... I can tell by the tiny little shells I found this morning, and by the sand in the carpet and the scent of campfire smoke on their clothes.

A good time was had by all. Including me. But wow...am I ever glad their back!

A mommy vacation

Well...after a scrambling for last-minute unpacked items, special stuffed animals and the like...my family is off on the annual family camping trip. They're heading for the Oregon coast...without me.

Lest you feel too sorry for me, let me assure you it was by my own choice. Let me explain...

You see, each year, my husband's eleven brothers and sisters, assorted spouses and kids, head to the same campground every year. They have been doing this since my husband was born and the tradition carries on. I have gone off and on, through the years, as well. I have enjoyed some fun moments, sitting around the campfire with the clan and listening to stories, hiking on the nearby trails, and playing on the beach on those rare, warm Oregon coastal days.
But I guess I'm not the pioneer sort. I grew up with a nice Terry trailer, sleeping on the top bunk, snug and warm, with the soft light of the gas lamps setting off a cozy glow. So this year I decided to stay home- sending off my youngest for the first time on this adventure without me and giving lots of hugs and kisses to both girls and hubby this morning.

Now, if we had a trailer, maybe... maybe ...I would have gone this time. But tent camping on the Oregon coast has never been exactly my favorite vacation. I've tried many years to be a trooper, honestly! And I think his family still loves me, in spite of my lack of "roughing it" genes. (Ot at least tolerates me.)
Now, don't get me wrong...I have enjoyed some good tent camping in other places. I'm not that much of a primadonna. But tent camping on the Oregon coast- only forty feet from the cold, blustery sea - is just not my cup of ...cocoa.

It causes me to:

1) shower with cold water on a cold morning on cold, puddly cement.

2) shower daughters with cold water (insert crying and fussing) on a cold morning on cold, puddly cement.

3) sleep with layers of jammies and long johns and sweatshirts, huddled with my family (OK, that part is really nice) but still feeling like I'm in the tundra...

4) feel cold enough that I keep waking up...which makes me feel like I have to use the bathroom. I hunt for the flashlight, carefully unzip the tent (wow, that's loud...did it wake the whole campsite?) and make my way through the frigid darkness to the bathroom (...just take a right, down a path, then it forks to the left, walk through the grassy area, and then just another quarter mile...can't miss it, just look for the massive moths batting the one overhead light...)

So... instead, I am here thinking about all the great things I can do, but as a busy mommy, never seem to have the time for. Wow- Free Time! This whole messy, cluttered house is at my disposal! (Ok, first on my list is doing some serious house-cleaning!)

But all kidding aside, I really do hope to make this time useful. And though I didn't get to church this morning, I plan on spending some extra quiet time with the Lord. I plan on finally getting my scrapbooking material out (which haven't been touched in months) and doing a page or two at long last. I plan on reading a good book out on the sunny deck. And I even plan on trying to complete the last chapter of the Christian romance that I have been working on for two years!

Oh...and yes. I honestly do plan on cleaning the house and organizing. (And the strange thing is, I'm actually looking forward to that! Funny, how much easier cleaning can be when it's not being messed up simutaniously!)

However... as much as I think I'm going to try and use this rare alone time wisely...it's going to be with mixed feelings as I go about my days. How strange not to hear my little wee voices or to read them stories at bedtime tonight. How quiet the house will seem!
I think I may even start to miss the whines of my four year old and the tattling and squabbles that sprinkle my day.

But when my family comes back from their fun- tired, tan and dirty- I also know that I will have gained a lot. I will have not only been refreshed by my time of peace and quiet ...I will have gleaned a new appreciation and thankfulness for my children and husband. And this is a very good thing.

In the meantime... I'm off to start my alone-time. First order of business? To tear myself away from this computer and my new-found blogging addiction (at least temporarily). So, what would you other mommies do with several days to yourself?

Wish me well...I'll let you know how it goes!

I wanna go back to my lil' grass shack...

Remember that old commercial where the gorgeous girl with the great hair pleads with us, "Please don't hate me because I'm beautiful..."
Well, I may not be beautiful, but it's with both excitment and a little trepidation that I announce my personal good news:

My family is going to Hawaii!!!

I know... a few years ago, I may have groaned in response to such news from someone else. Especially, when I tell you that this is my second trip. But please keep the following in mind:

My first trip was a year and a half ago - it was our 10th anniversary. I was 42 and had dreamed of it all my life! And as you can see- it was a long time coming!
We left our girls with some good friends for a whole week and had the honeymoon that we never had...ahhh, romance! (Something tells me, though, that the romance will be a little harder to come by with a 4 and 7 year old sharing our hotel... but hey!)
We also fell so in love with Maui that we seriously investigated the idea of living there. But alas...as we all know, the cost of living is sky-high and our family is not of the elite upper class (or even the elite middle class!) so we have to put our dream on the back burner for now.

However, after scrimping and saving...we are able to go back again, this time taking our girls with us! This is huge, since we're not to the financial point of taking yearly vacations and our monthly budget is tight. My husband works hard, but has a somewhat modest income which we have to stretch to the limit sometimes, being a one-income homeschool family. But nevertheless, we have kept and added to our savings, so that we could acheive this family goal to go back...and this weekend it became official! As of this fall, we'll be doing the hula!

And here's the best part: My mom, as some of you know by now is 79. She has never been to Hawaii and has always always wanted to go. (Here, I bet you think I'm about to say that she is coming with us...) Well, as much as I wanted for her sake to bring her, after much discussion, my husband- as sweet as he is- just didn't feel that we could do that, for various reasons. And though I ultimately came to agreement on this, I did feel a sense of regret....sadness....and yes, guilt. I wrote to her dear sister, who travels around the globe on a non-stop basis, if she would consider doing the trip with her. And bless her heart, she not only is willing, she is in the process of securing all of the details! They'll be going this fall as well (only a different month- different island).

I have to tell you that knowing my mom will have the chance to see Hawaii during her lifetime makes me want to tear up with joy even more than my own upcoming trip. I prayed that God would grant her this trip and He is answering. She is turning 80 in March and she is no longer able to get around all that easily. This probably would be her last chance for such an adventure... God is so gracious.

So... soon... as the autumn leaves begin to trickle down from our Oregon trees, my whole family will be able to enjoy lying under a swaying palm while listening to the sounds of the gentle surf lulling us to sleep. (If this sounds like wishful thinking, believe me...it is really like that!) Perhaps we'll be greeted on our return by a pile of red and yellow leaves on our sidewalk and a cold, blustery wind hitting us smack in the face...but that's Ok! Our Hawaiian memories will keep us warm for awhile as we dream, once again, of someday making paradise our home. And even if God leads us in a different direction instead, I know it will turn out for good.
And besides...Hawaii's got nothin' on God's real paradise. That's where our true home is waiting.

"I go to prepare a place for you..."

The "Sandwich Generation"

The girls and I are heading down to the Salem area today, to spend the night with my their nammy. My mom is 79...it's so hard for me to believe that, and harder yet for her to believe.

You see, all the women in my family tend to have their children later in life. Not by plan, it is just how life has worked out for each of us.
A little history...My grandmother lost her first husband in one of the great epidemics of the early century, leaving her a widow with a son. She remarried, and had two daughters at age 39 and 41...one of them, being my mom.
My mom, in turn, did not meet her Mr. Right until age 30...which by today's standards is not that late but in the 1950's was considered quite tardy. I didn't come along until about six years later- her one and only.

And then there's me...who also didn't find her Mr. Right until age 30 and also didn't have my first baby until age 36...and the second at age 39.

And since my husband's parents have passed away, my children have just one grandparent- their beloved Nammy. Nammy may be slow getting around but she has a lot of love to give- and my girls adore her. And when all of us gals get together, we are indeed, separated by a great length in years from youngest to oldest. And yet...we're all connected by that bond...that bond of femaleness and genes that is undeniable.

My mom is hoping to sell her house this year and move closer to us. It's a big transition, and I as her only child will be doing all I can. But it's challenging...I am part of the "sandwhich generation"...someone who's parent is becoming elderly while her children are still young and dependent. I know I'm not the only one in this situation...I've met a few others who are dealing with helping generations on both ends, while their sandwiched neatly in-between.

In spite of the challenges, though, I am so thankful! Thankful that my mom is still alive and well and can know my little girls- and that they can know her. And the plus side of having a grandmother so well seasoned in life, is that she is a grand source of living history and stories that she can hand down to us. I joked in my last post of other parents with kids my age thinking I am a piece of history...but my mom truly is! Born in the 20's and raised in the Depression...a teen during WWII who planted victory gardens and shopped with ration coupons... she has seen so many changes in our world and we can learn so much from her.

So...we are off to see Nammy today. And though the years ahead may bring many challenges to me with my two generations, I am SO grateful to the Lord for giving me "the bread on both ends".

(Please visit my mom's blog on the link to the right- Grandmothersmusings.)

5 Reasons I know I'm getting older...

As some of you know, I'm kind of a- well- sort of older mom to two little girls, ages 7 and 4. Having gotten started just a bit later than some, but mostly still feeling young inside, I sometimes forget I am...(gulp)...43! I've been told I have been blessed with young-looking genes- and I'm hanging onto that thought! But in order to remind myself that yes, I am no longer the number that I feel in my head- which is say, about 29, I have constructed this list:

5 Reasons I know I'm getting older

1) My arms have been getting a nice stretching workout, as I read aloud from Heidi or American Girl chapter books to my seven year old... for some reason, my arms just have been wanting to hold the book "out" just a bit more. This can be a good thing...a little stretching is good for the muscles.

2) Rumor has it that my old Mod-hair Ken and Malibu Barbie, and Barbie's good friend, Talking Francie, are all worth a pretty penny if I sold them today on e-bay today. (Pull the string on Francie and she'll still ask the burning question, "Would you like to go shopping?" Thankfully, I was not brainwashed by her constant pestering and in spite of her, I'm the penny-pinching home school mom you see today.)

3) The young girl leading Vacation Bible School this year called me maam. (Just so we're clear, here in the north, this term of respect is not thrown around unless you've earned it with age.)

4) I found one tiny grey hair...in my eyebrow.

5) Other mommies stare at me in awe when I talk about watching Apollo 12 on the classroom TV while sipping my strawberry-flavored thermos milk- next to my friend with her enviable new metal Partridge Family lunchbox.
I think they simply have no words to say...to be rubbing elbows with the piece of history that I am.

These...and so many other reasons that will remain nameless, help to serve in reminding me of my approaching...shall we say, wisdom. On the other hand...I'm still younger than Barbie herself...and she looks fabulous! (Although, I'm still not quite sure if she's had any work done.
When I last passed by her in the isle, her eyes did look a bit...strange.)

So, at any rate, I'm here... in that in-between stage. Between the freshness of youth and the senior discount card. Between the changing my babies diapers stage and the sounds of my desparate husband's voice echoing down the halls,
"The women in my family are either going through puberty or hot flashes- get me out of this hormone house!"

But in the meantime, I'll enjoy tricking this old girl's body into forgetting it's past 40 as I run through the culdesac, chasing my kids on their bike and trike (panting ever so slightly) and reliving childhood as I play dolls with them on the floor. I'll try and remember the old adage that we are only as young as we feel...because honestly, I really do feel young most of the time. Most of the time. Truly. Now where is my eyebrow pencils and tweezers...

Simple Summer Moments

We're having a lazy summer week...after a busy June of Vacation Bible School, swimming and tumbling classes...and of course, the slumber party... the girls and I are kicking back a bit and taking it easy. And although we still have the tumbling and swimming classes to finish, we're honestly going to be slowing down a bit, hoping to capture those "simple summer moments".
After all, isn't that what many of us remember with the most sweetness from our own childhood? Oh, if we were lucky enough to go on an incredible family vacation with our parents, we usually still remember the excitement we felt...maybe picnicking by the Grand Canyon, a rollercoaster ride...or maybe it was shaking hands with Minnie Mouse at Disneyland. (By the way, I did all of the above, but this list didn't even start until the ripe old age of 14...and wasn't completed until I was 32!)
But the memories that are the most treasured about summer for me- and I suspect many of you- are the ones when I found myself outside...with no particular plan, no agenda...not even a "play date" written on my mom's calendar in pencil. Just the soft breeze blowing while I played either with a neighbor or simply all by myself...letting my imagination soar.

Now believe me, I am not at all sorry for our tumbling classes...and learning to swim is not just fun- it's kind of important! As for play dates, well, it's pretty hard to get around relying on those in this busy day and age, so I make them as much as the next mommy. But I think balance is the key...making sure our kids just have time to just be a kid...to play, to invent, to explore.

As a new home school mom, I can tell you that this has been a challenge, I'll be honest. I always want to "direct" activities and hopefully give them an educational slant...after all, isn't that what a good home school mom always has to do? But although making learning fun is the goal, I can't forget to let them have undirected playtime, as well. Again, balance is what is needed here, I think. So I'm learning...yes, I'm the one learning...and remembering what it was like to be child.

So...we're going to enjoy impromptu sprinkler days on hot, sultry days this summer and have fun drawing crazy pictures on the sidewalk (as seen above, the picture taken just hours ago!) And yes, I'm even going to let them make up non-sense stories with all their My Little Ponies- even though there is no actual educational benefit that I know of- while I write on the computer...like right now.
Oh wait...there is a bit of educational topic to be found with their current play. Social graces. My oldest just announced,
"Pretend we didn't care if the house was messy when we knocked on each other's door..."
Okay, guess that's my cue to go wash the counters...

Of Stubborn Hands

On the rare occasions when I'm not emmersed in the business of being a mom, or hurrying from one place to another, I often have the privilage of just watching people. If I'm waiting to meet friends or family and find myself somehow alone in public, it gives the rare opportunity to simply slow down and observe. There are such a variety of people out there, even here in the 'burbs! (By the way, I am not fond of that phrase for some reason...who coined it, anyhow?) I often see parents with their children, young professionals sipping their lattes, folks going in and out of stores...and if I have nothing with me to read, watching people can be very educational and entertaining! Of course I try to be descreet...try not to stare. And sometimes I have had no intention of actually being a "people watcher"...but the situation just many times presents itself and there I am...watching people. They were there right in front of me and I had to keep an eye out for whomever I was waiting for anyway. Sometimes we have no choice except to watch people- and sometimes there are even lessons to be learned.

Now, I wish I could say that I had a phenomenal story to tell about some people I have observed. But it's usually the unassuming ones that many times grab my attention...

In fact, just this past Sunday we were making our weekly pilgrimage to Winco after church (for those not in Winco-land, it's pretty much a food warehouse where prices are cheap, but you stand in a long line whether you have a full cart or one loaf of bread- and of course you bag your grocieries.) Once we all got into line, and the girls were happily helping their daddy put the items up to be scanned, I decided to mosey outside to wait for them in the sunshine, near the exit doors. After seeing countless families file by, my eye caught sight of an older couple. He was slightly bent over, tall and frail looking, with an exquisitly beautiful Asian wife by his side. As he began picking up the two bags from their cart, I noticed how his wife tried to take one of the bags from him. Although he seemed to struggle somewhat, manuvering the second bag into his arms, he wouldn't relinquish it. I watched how his wife tried again, a worried look on her face, to take just one of the bags from him, but he haughtily insisted on carrying them both. She gave up, a still worried and frustrated look on her face as they walked past me...and my last glimpse was of the frail old man stubbornly clinging to his bags, one of them looking as though it could slip to the ground any minute. Yet, the look of concern on his wife's face had been clearly for him- not the bags. I wondered if perhaps something more specific than his age- perhaps a health problem- conctributed to her worry.
After they were out of sight, I wondered about them. How long had they been married? Did they have children? Was he always stubborn in his ways...or was he just holding tightly to the last of his independence as tightly as he held the grocieries?

Something about them had tugged at my heart. Perhaps it's the sometimes sad approach of age, when a once strong, robust and independent man finds the littlest tasks a struggle, and yet his pride yells out that he is still a man, still capable...still strong.
Or perhaps it was an all-too familair reflection of us all...how we, even those of us that love and follow Christ, can insist on trying to struggle with our own burdens, simply out of pride.

Tiny children, I've found, have the same characteristics...toddlers and preschoolers insist on wanting to "do it mytelf!" and then struggle and flounder...finally coming to us, their parents, for just a little help.

To this day, I still tend to want to "just figure things out on my own"- instead of first giving the whole thing over to the Lord, and leave it there. How many times has He been walking beside me, just as the older man's wife had been, a look of deep concern on His face, just waiting for me to give my burden into His waiting arms?

Fortuantely, we serve a faithful God...He won't give up on us, even when we're being stubborn and prideful. He loves us too much. He will continue to walk besides us...waiting as long as He has to before we finally hand over whatever weighs us down. Because no matter how well we think we can handle everything on our own, we might as well face it...we just can't. And why would we really want to, anyway?

I surived our first slumber party!

Today is my first-born's seventh birthday and only two hours ago, her little, sweet, silly, noisy, adorable friends left, leaving me a chance to catch my breath. Only for a moment though...we're heading out for more family birthday fun in a few minutes!

Let me just say that the preparations (cleaning, planning, decorating) we're by far the hardest part of this endevour. Having our first slumber party was surprisingly pain-free and full of lots of laughter, fun, and only a few (Okay 30) "Go to sleep now, girls" bellowed from dainty self from the top of the stairs.

We ranged from my youngest daughter, who is four and had to be a part of it all...to age nine. Some were seasoned "overnighters", others not so much. But with only a few minor squabbles that lasted only seconds, everyone seemed to have a great time.
Our party was an Angelina\ballet theme, so after a crown-decorating craft, a rousing game of pin the tutu on Angelina (which produced hysterical fits of laughter) cake, presents and an Angelina movie, you'd think all of the little ballerinas would be tuckered out by bedtime and ready for the real slumbering to begin. But I was a girl once, so I was prepared. On the other hand, I'm now a tired old mom who was feeling the effect of all the work leading up to this, and ready for blessed sleep. I let them giggle only for so long (the girl in me saying to let them have their fun) before the tired old mom started shusshing. (Is that a word?)

Some of you moms (and dads) have already been there, done that and are now seasoned slumber party parents. But I feel as though I just went though some kind of rite of passage along with my daughter...I planned my first slumber-birthday party and came out the other end...a little tired, sleep-deprived, a little stiff and sore...but alive and well.

An interesting thing about my husband...he had had a hard, tiring day at work so I didn't really expect him to participate too much...especially since it was a "girlie" party. But to my surprise, he not only helped, but seemed to be having a great time...especially during the Pin the Tutu game, as you'll see from this picture! I think he was actually the life of the party! :)

Most of all, when I remember of the look of pure happiness that radiated from my little girl's face during all the festivities, it honestly makes every ounce of extra work completely worth it. She was glowing and it gave me such satisfaction to be able to make this happen. And though I'm sure they'll be many more slumber parties in the years to come with two daughters in the household, I think our family will always remember this one as being special.

As I write this, my family is back from Burger King and it's time for the next adventure of the day. But now that the slumber party is officially over, guess what my own little ballerinas are doing? Yep, you got it...they're in the car...slumbering.

Tunnels and Bridges and Books...Oh My!

I'm not a city girl. And hoping not to offend a lot of our wonderful friends and relatives, I must say that I am especailly not a Portland girl. So driving alone through the highways and biways and endless bridges that take you so high you almost get an earache is not my idea of a good time. Yes, I do admire the skyline and there are some very admirable qualities about the Rose city, don't get me wrong. But for some reason, no matter how long I live near this metropolis, I simply cannot find my way around, no matter how hard I try. And to be very honest, the whole atmostphere there simply doesn't feel comfortable. Tony understands but teases me anytime we all go there as a family, especially downtown. "Hang on...we're going to walk a few blocks through downtown now..." he'll say, sarcasim dripping...or something to that effect.
So, when friends of mine both had to cancel at the last minute to go to the Christian Home school Curriculum fair with me, I was left with a decision. Forget the whole thing... or go alone. (Tony is behind me all the way with our home school plan, but has no interest in curriculum fairs.) The other gals and I originally had thought of taking the Max...but for some reason, that didn't appeal to me alone. Not sure why. But I decided to be brave and head out alone.
I have now just taken it for granted that I will get just a tiny bit lost at least, even with a map printout. So I wasn't too shocked when I accidently veered off onto 86 heading east, away from my destination, the Memorial collesium. Saying a little prayer, I got off at the first exit and then yay!-just by guessing, I managed head down the right street where a beautiful sign telling me "Rose Quarter- this lane!" beamed up ahead at me.

And to add to my satisfaction, once inside, I found myself actually having a nice time roaming around the curriculum fair alone! I spoke with the many vendors and chatted with a woman I had met only briefly while visiting another home school group. I found endless types of educational material and filled up my tote bag, pausing to eat lunch by a peaceful water fountain. It was a surprisingly nice (howbeit tiring) experience!

But back on the road...well, don't laugh, but I ended up taking a wrong turn again and finding myself in the dreaded DOWNTOWN! Pedestrians would walk in front of me, in spite of my green light, and then I'd turn, only to find myself at a road closure near a one-way street...so I'd circle around...would I ever get out of this place?!

After some lost time, I finally found the Beaverton sign and could breathe at last on my beloved west side...through the tunnel, past the zoo sign, and onto home.
For any of those reading this that are not big-city impared as I am, you may not understand why it is necessary for me to lose my way back home almost every time I drive to Portland- afterall, isn't Beaverton just across the river? How hard can that be? But trust me...unless you are either born into Portland- or naturally directionally gifted...or, as in my husband's case- both- you, too, might find yourself one day sadly driving around in circles, desperately searching for that elusive Beaverton\26 sign.

What did I learn about this adventure?
1) Being alone at a curriculum fair means browsing to your heart's content and leaving whenever you feel like it. Although I love spending time with girlfriends, having no one to answer to can be a good thing.
2) Doing something that requires me to get out of my comfort zone can really build confidence.
3) Downtowners in Portland love to throw caution to the wind in order to cross the street, somehow believing that they will always be spared...especially if a Starbucks or Peet's Coffee shop awaits them on the side.

Okay...next time I'll take the Max.

States I've been to...

Hey, I've covered some ground! Not bad for simple northwestern girl. In all fairness, though, I have to admit that at least half of these states were simply "just passin' though" states during Tony's Navy days! Still, I was there!

create your own visited states map
or check out these Google Hacks.

Father's Day thoughts...Remembering Dad

I am not sure why it is that I can go for a long period of time, barely thinking of a loved one who is now in Heaven because of life's all-consuming busy days...only to become sentimental again, reliving those special memories.
This month, my thoughts turn towards my Dad...perhaps with Father's Day this coming Sunday...perhaps because he also passed away in June. But for whatever reasons, I'm remembering him.

Not all my memories of him are pleasent ones...there were many years wasted due to alcoholism, which snatched away some of my happy childhood. But I can look back and know that he would never have chosen to waste not only some of his life, but to hurt me emotionally in any way...he loved me. And when by God's grace he was delivered from his bondage, he tried to serve Him with all that he had...and he was sometimes plagued with guilt over those stolen years.

Some of my good memories, though, are of when I was very young and Daddy would put me on his shoulders for a ride. He was so tall! Not just to my little child's persective, but at six foot two, I was just a bit nervous up there, riding in the clouds. We'd vist my grandparents who lived next to my great-aunt's meat market and cow pasture and I'd laugh as he'd make mooing sounds that mimicked the cattle exactly.
It was just my parents and me as I grew up...we'd camp, go fishing and ride in our motorboat. I was elated when he let me "drive" the boat one day, when I wasn't more than five or six.
And years later- when he had stopped drinking and was living again for the Lord- we'd have wonderful heart-to-heart talks. He took our family on a road trip to California twice...the first time when I was fourteen and we brought my eleven year old nephew along (whom I got along with great!) ...and the second was in my early twenties. We brought one of my friends, and dispite the fact that he was now on "home dialysis" from kidney disease, he still did most of the driving.
In his last years he contined to try and work hard to provide a living and was determined not to give into his disease. He was a fighter, a perseverer. And like David in the Bible who fell so short of God's plan during part of his life, he was someone who's heart sought after God and he returned to Him with all of his being.

So...though I can't erase totally some of the bad memories that smudged up my growing years like a smeared painting, I do still remember the good qualities of my dad...his sometimes quiet strength, tender heart and perserverence. I wish he could have met my husband...and especially his little granddaughters. I wish I could sit down with him sometimes now and have a good heart to heart talk again. But that won't happen until I get to heaven, and until then, I'll try and remember the good things, to learn from the bad, to forgive...and to miss him.

I love you, Dad. Happy Father's Day.
~Tammy

Bread machine update...

OK...I know I left everyone wondering and worrying if I would get my breadmaker and grain grinder...hehe Well, here's is the latest:

After talking again to the friend who does her own bread, I decided to simply start by investing in the breadmaker until we can afford to do both. We can still buy whole grain flour from certain stores and experiment making healthful breads in the meantime! So...after going over facts and figures, I realized I had a little money tucked away from my old Pampered Chef selling days. Yes...I ordered my new breadmaker tonight! I'm so excited! Especially, after reading the ingredients on the package of our "whole grain" bread label today. :) Not too appetizing.
Just for the record, my new machine is a new Panasonic model that has gotten lots of great reviews.

So, look out to my family...here comes the homemade bread experiments!

A day in the country

It was a blissful spring day as our family headed out on the school bus, loaded down with families from the church, heading towards some private acreage with a pond of farm-raised trout. We arrived and our group was surprised with a flock of gorgeous peacocks, most with the feathers in full-fan! Everyone oohed and ahhed, and laughed at their loud, outrageous calls. Thus, began our picture-perfect Saturday.
I was also amazed at just how lovely the setting at the pond was...it completely exceeded my expectations and I wanted to just sit and soak it all in. But we had some serious fishin' to do...well, Tony and I trying to help the girls bait their hooks and cast a line, was more of a comical affair than anything remotely serious, but our friends graciously took pity on us, and kept helping out. Thank you, Villa family! :)
Later on, we all enjoyed a picnic lunch of hot dogs, ice cream, chips and soda...we had the option of barbequing our fish then and there, and I was one of the few to do so...it was SO yummy! You can't get much fresher than your own fish caught just an hour ago. (Again, thanks to my friend, Missy, for her fish-cleaning skills...and to think she doesn't even like to eat it!)
Our time there ended with a ride on a paddle boat...Tony and I paddled away while the girls sat in back and enjoyed the scenery. The water was so so shimmery and clear, reflecting the green of the trees everywhere...we wished we could have stayed until sunset but it was time to return to our bus and head back. As our bus began to move, we all took one last look at the many fancy peacocks. Their noisy bellows sounded a lot like "Help! Help!" but we knew they were far from needing any rescue...they seemed to have got it made here on this beautiful piece of farmland.
I leaned my head back against the school bus seat (something I hadn't done in decades) feeling exhausted but content. The day had been such a good time of fellowship with others from the church that we didn't know well or hadn't yet met...and it had been a tremendous chance to relax a bit and enjoy God's beauty as a family. We'll definately be back. But more than that, we'll be looking just a bit more carefully for many more opportunities like it. Chances for finding these little getaways with each other and for forming the stuff memories are made of.