HOME~

A Reminder To Us All...of How Time Flys

2012-01-30T14:56:00.000-05:00

My first baby boy...

U know, the one I slept next to

for the first weekof his life...

On the floor, next to his crib, listening, waiting,

drifting off only to jump at the sound of his little cry.

Working furiously on his bottle while bouncing him

so as not to wake Doug.

Watching the snow fall out the window,

under the streetlight.

Listening to Turning Point every night,

eating homemade oatmeal chocolate chip cookies

while he drank his bottle,

his body helping to keep mine warm.

He just drove out of our driveway alone.

Not for the first time, nor the last.

But the first day that he will be gone from lunch until 10:00pm.

He is armed as well as we could,

for what he will might encounter,

today, tomorrow, next week.

And the rest, we trust God to handle.

Knowing

the watercolor ponies

will one day

ride

away...

Lunch

2012-01-27T21:41:00.000-05:00

I was busy doing something one day not long ago

so Solomon told me he was going to go

make a sandwich for lunch.

He is one of the few meat eaters in the family

and LOVES Boars Head turkey.

Giving accolades for his creativeness,

I secretly wondered if this even qualifies as a sandwich.
Always wanting to name things, I wondered, what would you call it?
The Openface Butter Platter?
With a side of cheese?

Buuuuur

2012-01-23T20:27:00.000-05:00

My awesome husband at the sledding hill.

Under Construction

2012-01-22T01:35:00.000-05:00

Please excuse the wreck.

I began tweaking the blog, perhaps I shouln't do that at this hour.

Eyes are seeing double.

Need 3 days of sleep.

Goodnight.

16 Candles

2012-01-22T00:06:00.001-05:00

Dougs Mom and Step Dad are in Arizona for the winter

so just his Dad and my parents came for cake Thursday night

after Doug braved the blizzard for Q'doba at Nathans request.

Adrianna really wanted to get this helmet for Nathan.

We had a difficult time finding one that did not ship from China.

When wrapped, the kids had Nathan convinced

this was my new Rubbermaid mop.

This was suppossed to resemble a mean GI pose

(not a 9 year old sucking his thumb)

We did not even need 2 whole cheesecakes that night,

leaving more than 2 in the fridge for Nathan.

My Mom suggested breakfast for everyone

but he had other ideas that did not involve so many people.

He could use a little weight.

Guises and surprises

2012-01-21T15:44:00.000-05:00

January 18, 10:00pm

Nathan's 16th Birthday Eve

This year he requested 4 cheesecakes.

2 for when grandparents come over for cake.

2 for him.

I'm starting a bit late but I can do this.

**************

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Nathan's 16th Birthday

Background:

Nathan bought his own Jeep awhile back with his own hard earned cash.

He didn't insure or plate it because it had a cracked windshield

that needed replaced and intended to search the junkyards.

Wednesday evening Doug talked to Nathan about possibly getting

the insurance, plate, registration taken care of in the next week

and the plan was for us to go to DMV after classes Thursday am.

*******

Reality:

Adrianna, Solomon and I race to the DMV after dropping the kids at class.

With proof of insurance and application for personalized plate,

we register the Jeep and run out with temporary plate in hand

heading for home.

We tricked up the jeep with a few extras that we bought,

threw the temp plate on and headed back to Holland.

Doug picked up the kids from class in the van,

fabricating a story about Adrianna's teeth really hurting

and drove to the DMV get Nathan's license.

During this time, we in the jeep ran through the car wash

and hid behind a snowdrift waiting for the call.

As the birthday boy arrived at the DMV,

Doug called asking how AJ was doing, etc...

this was my cue to slowly creep through the Ditto parking lot.

I asked Doug to put the phone on speaker and apologized

for not being able to make it told him everything he would need.

Meanwhile, AJ ties the Happy 16th balloon out the window

and we begin racing toward the van, still talking on speaker phone.

According to reports, Nathan turned and pointed out a jeep that was

the same color as his.

At this point, I am blaring the horn, telling him

I made it after all.
Franchesca had tears in her eyes when we pulled up.
Doug did too.

I had been running the video recorder in the car wash

until Doug called and in my excitement threw it in the seat next to me.

The plan called for AJ to video the entire approach.

Instead, I have 3 minutes of upside down video of the steering wheel.

When I grabbed the cam to get this shot I wasn't thinking and took it through

both of our windows.

The surprise factor was hugely successful.

Here Doug fields the classic question about what school is closed today...

He was so flustered by the whole ordeal that

he spelled his middle name wrong!

We attracted quite a few stares.

Seems as though folks just don't have their entire clan with them

when someone gets their official drivers license.

We must not have appeared too suspect

as no social workers arrived at our doorstep.

We walked out and my son asked me to ride home with him.

We had to make a stop for him to buy me a York peppermint patty
and a pop for him.

What a fun day.

#2 (or Funding the Orthodontists Vacation to Hawaii)

2012-01-21T11:26:00.000-05:00

**Prior authorization was given to post these photos**

This spacer being put in lasted 6 hours

We were home 3 hours after getting the wires applied

when a bracket came and we lost a band holding a wire in place.

It appears we will be buying stock in Ibuprofen, applesauce

and spiral macaroni and cheese (Kraft only).

Editors note

2012-01-03T22:50:00.000-05:00

For those readers who commented (or didn't but wanted to) (or did so privately)

on clothing selection in the Kindle Fire post-

let me clear any misconceptions.

We open some things in the am, in our jammies, hair undone,

teeth unbrushed, some people nursing coffee cups.

Later in the evening we get dressed in something

a bit more appropriate than Star Wars pj's

for dinner, a few more gifts and the annual family photo by the tree.

For some years now, that is the only time we specifically gather for a posed photo.

So no, my friend, I did not dress just for the Shock and Awe pics.

In fact, I didn't know there would be any, as I was taken by surprise.

Unfortunately, we must have been very preoccupied with our new toys,

because this is the closest pic I can find with any of us by the tree.

Sweet Surprise

2012-01-03T22:35:00.000-05:00

Nathan went back to work this week~

no extra day off from the Biology teacher,

even in midst of our worst snow storm this year.

He drove both ways,

what better way to gain experience in snow

than in a mild blizzard.

16 days till The Big Sixteen.

When we finally made it safely home,

we discovered to our surprise and amazementthat while we were gone,

the girls had totally removed every decorationfrom the tree and had hauled it out into the garage.

Adios tree. You were pretty. And fragrant. And expensive. And shortlived...

***********

A few last Christmas pics. Here is Nathan opening his gift from Adrianna.

She put a false bottom in the bag where she hid the gift,

then put a rock in and covered it with tissue paper.

Like Mother, Like Daughter

2012-01-03T00:12:00.000-05:00

It has been a challenge finding enough (appropriate) books

to keep Adrianna's reading appetite satisfied.

She reads far above grade level but I still hesitate to hand over some of my favorite books

due to the more mature themes running throughout.

She devoured The Hobbit years ago

and has been persistently begging to delve further into the world of Tolkien ever since.

Early in December when we were at the library,

I led her to Teen Fiction, and while I quickly searched for To,

she found a trove of Star Wars books that she had always overlooked.

As she loaded up her bag, I walked over and gave her Tolkien, Volumes I and II.

She gave me "the look" and said "You're serious"???

She quickly emptied the bag, lining up Luke Skywalker for another day

then went and found Volume III for good measure.

She read the entire trilogy over the weekend.

I had been telling myself no to a Kindle for her,

not wanting anytime internet access available.

After chatting at length with the knowledgeable, cool, Best Buy dude,

I was convinced that this was the perfect gift for her.

Access to Amazon store for Kindle, no web browser.

Adhering to the reputation attached to being a salesman,

he lied.

AJ loves her Kindle.

I'm wondering if the library ebooks and Amazon

can keep up with her though.

~~************~~

Fast forward 8 hours...

I set aside my pride to post the following pics.

The are not at all flattering but I have decided I do not belong in Hollywood after all-

SO WHO CARES?

They do however, capture the true "shock and awe" of the moment.

(me, thinking: "it's that little ceramic room heater I saw at Menaards")

(me to self: gasp! doesn't he know that I have Columbia snowpants JUST like these?)

(me stumbling along, aloud: "Oh. Huh. Wow.")

(Me, after removing (my) snowpants from the box and seeing my real gift.)

(Me: really, truely surprised, having declared my new glasses
and phone my Christmas gifts)

The kids had been waiting all day to recount the story
of pulling into Best Buy late one night with Doug
to buy my Kindle
and seeing my van was parked right there as I was in Michael's.
After waiting a long while, they parked descretly
and made a run for it.
My van was still in front of Michael's when they walked out an hour later.

Live Shock and Awe photos
captured by Adrianna.
She did a great job.

Let There Be Lights....? Please?

2012-01-02T00:27:00.000-05:00

Several problems can arise from waiting until Christmas week to trim the tree.

One very obvious situation is that the same lights that worked in January

now belong in the stack labeled "find out where to recycle"....

Shopping for lights days before Christmas proves fruitless

and produces panic attacks.

Luckily, my Father in law had a large strand in his barn

from 30 years back that, when plugged in,

roared to life as though straight from the manufacturer.

I really enjoyed the trip down memory lane

as I recalled the people and events that are attached to each ornament,

like these, representing the year that each kiddo was born.

This carousel horse is the 1 left of a set of 4

that I received as a Christmas gift from Doug's brother,

2 weeks before he was killed in an auto accident.

My mom began collecting Hallmark ornaments for us

sometime during my childhood

and continued even unto Grandchildren.

She tailored each one to the person.

From ballerinas to Boy Scouts and hiking...

Fishing and new homes...

It is fun to look back and reflect on what has changed

and what has stayed the same...

Like horses.

This one is mine and is dated 1985,

the year before I graduated from High School...

This one belongs to Solomon

but JD represents the whole family in various ways.

From the longing to fly, to remembering folks we don't see anymore,

our ornaments speak of our lives.

Adrianna, wondering if she longs for the dog more than the sweets.

Oh, the realism.

Mom's first ornament to Doug.

The year we planted ALL those trees.

I have slowly developed this "thing" about Santa.

I mean, Rudolph I can take and HE isn't real.

Not quite Santa disdain. Let's call it overload.

I have been slowly witholding some of the Santa in our Christmas

over the past few years with the exception of an ornament that has

special sentimental value.

We all agree that this one is a keeper.

My last insight into last minute shopping

is that most people out at that point have lost a bit of their right mind.

The body, I have found, simply goes into survival mode,

saving energy and mental clarity for the most basic actions:

driving and shopping.

Like me, some really go over the edge, like this

Santa's helper (disguised as Rudolph), who swooped down on me in Michael's around 10:00 at night.

Whew. This Christmas was exhausting in many ways.

I'm just glad I not the only one who succumbs to the stress.

Relax Rudolph, Christmas 358 days away.

Whoever you are.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Trumped By a Baby

2012-01-01T20:16:00.000-05:00

Some years are harder for me to get it together at Christmas time.

This was one of them. Something had to give: The blog.

******

A week before Christmas

and under pressure,

we chose the perfect day

to find our tree.

It was snowing.

We have been buying from the same people for years but,

out of fear, or the need for variety, or ease,

we turned around upon seeing a sign for Fresh U-cut trees.

Live. And learn.

I missed my first big clue that came in the form of a yard sign

declaring handmade wreaths and

"FRESH BRUSH".

Hmm. We burn our brush.

I didn't even notice the words on the sign

until posting this pic.

Now, I claim no expertise when choosing trees,

however my husband and I have planted

several thousand pines.

My 2nd clue was also overlooked,

that being the yearling field,

lined with bright little orange flags which indicate

where each little sapling was planted.

The flag to tree ratio was WAY out of proportion.

We found parking easy and very abundant,

also very close to the small building

(boasting of warm drinks and mints).

Which is odd. 3rd clue.

I did begin to feel a bit suspect inside

as we excitedly set out into the22 acres of pines.

Just some of the surroundings I guess.

And yard decorations. And junk.

Overstimulating.

We had a blast running through the snow, chasing Lily,

everyone debating over the trees,

Tiny? Grotesquely huge? Charlie Brown tree?

Our choices,

very limited despite "22 acres"

were narrowed and someone suggested Rock, Paper, Scissors.

Everyone helped lug the tree,

which was in the "spruce field"

back up to the truck.

I of course, came up behind with camara and dog

so I did not hear the seller tell Doug the amount of the tree,

based on it's height and spruce price per foot.

As I was getting into the truck I did hear the man

telling me that I "would never go wrong with a Frasier,

it will NEVER drop an ornament".

Confused about the comment, I glanced in the checkbook

to discover that we had just bought a nice sized Frasier Fir tree.

At top dollar. And NOT at spruce prices.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, Mr. Seller of Trees

This is my brain...

2011-12-13T22:56:00.000-05:00

This is my brain on Prednisone

I made this amazing choice of footwear

while being pumped up on drugs for infected poison ivy,

toward the end of summer.

I had taken Nathan to C.A.P,

dropped him off,

WENT TO TRACTOR SUPPLY THEN MY COFFEE HANGOUT

with

these

different

shoes

on...

Doug curiously looked down at my feet

when we arrived home and really had to ask

if I had known that my shoes did not match.

********

Fast forward to yesterday

when I took Solomon to the allergist,

ran the carpool of kids their next class,

went to Lowes and Walgreens

then back to drop Nathan off at C.A.P.

finally ending up in front of the fireplace

at my coffee hangout.

As I was getting ready for bed last night,

I took my earrings out and as I set them in the drawer

I noticed that they were similiar (silver)

but 2 very different earrings.

I blame the holiday season for that one.

Which is also why I can not find the time to blog.

Or think of the decade that public service announcement about my brain was out-

the one with the egg in the frying pan...

First Broken Bone?

2011-12-03T00:44:00.000-05:00

Nope.

FIRST CAVITY.

We have always felt that Solomon

would take the first trip to the E.R.

and come home in a cast.

Something to do with his disposition I guess.

And I had felt so much pride

with our track record at the dentist

especially when twice a year I have to listen

to the lecture about children who learn at home

have a higher rate of cavities, blah blah blah

I tried to prepare him as best I could,

suggesting that, like the allergy testing,

the unknown is worse than the actual event.

He had alot of questions about the gas that the dentist said he would use.

Gas from the gas station? Propane? Gas like in Nathan's green gas gun?

I tried to focus on the good news-no shot!

He wondered if he would be asleep like Grandpa

during his surgery and have to get pushed out in a wheelchair.

Still smiling all the way though.

Little did he know, we were both doing the same thing;

fake it until you make it.

The nurse was great and showed him everything they would use,

giving gentle descriptions (instead of drill).

The anticipation was the worst part so I occupied him

by taking photos and pointing out anything he hadn't noticed in the office.

I told him I would take pics so he could see what the procedure was like.

The Dr. told him that as soon as his hands were tingly, he would start.

Luckily that took 2.5 seconds because I didn't like seeing him laying there

with a gas mask on.

I asked Solomon if I could take pics because he looked

like something cool from Star Wars...

this was really for my own benefit

as things look different through a lens and I found I could watch

without feeling faint.

Solomon was amazed by several things

including the effects of the gas mask

but also how quickly the cavity was taken care of.

The Dr. sweetly replied that even though they can be fixed

and quite quickly,

it is best to really try not to get another one.

You would think he had orders straight from the President.

He ordered water with his lunch.

Water.

"I'm Glad for What I Have"...~veggie tales

2011-12-02T23:19:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

We, as American's,

are most blessed.

We have so much

to give thanks for.

If we only knew....

2 new (old) serving dishes graced our table on Thanksgiving
I love throwbacks with sentimental value

My personal plate.
Roasted sweet potatoes w/onion,
sauteed kale, cornbread & sage dressing,
cranberries and a nice dollup of sour creme...
Yes people, I DO eat on Thanksgiving.

Solomon insisted that this bird was blogworthy.

He was very intrigued by the entire turkey process

and really wanted me to photograph her

"with her skin white" (before cooking).

Not only did I find that idea repulsive,

it was also utterly impossible

because of the gallon size bags I had on each hand

while handling this thing.

(I was out of gloves).

Luckily he forgot about finding the camera

but launched into a serious investigation of HOW

"they" get the internal organs out of the bird

without cutting it open...

I quietly told him that Mommy gets very agitated

dealing with raw poultry due to the potential

for bacteria spewing everywhere, which sent him running,

MUCH to my relief,

as I did NOT want to have to explain the contents of "the bag".

Davey Crocket?

2011-11-18T20:46:00.001-05:00

This hat has been in the family

for a long spell.

At least 3 boys have

proudly displayed this

well put together remains

of a coon.

It originally came from

the land of Dixie.

Solomon has an unusual sense of style.

I have learned to just let some things go.

This is what he looked like today

throughout our trip to Holland

including his Lego Engineering class

at Hope College.

If you could see his shoe selection,

the outfit would come together in your mind.

Indian mocassins.

Ankle height, zip up the back,

with tassels.

He claims the comfort level

is unsurpassed.

(This is Solomon's friend Solomon. Double the wisdom.)

The atmosphere in the Chemistry lab

is non judgemental and invites

each child to be creative;

with Lego's and well, clothes.

(The necklace balances out the athletic shirts and pants
don't you think?)

Home education offers freedom from rules of dress

that you might find at some institutions.

How cool to be in a class at a college,

at age 9,

wearing what you will

and not ravaged by the fear

of your peer.

The "other Solomon"

has a brother in the class

who approached Solomon with large eyes

and whispered

"Did you kill that beaver"?!

Busy Week for the Checkbook

2011-11-17T22:56:00.001-05:00

After many discussions with our pediatrician,

we decided to consult an allergist to

determine what exactly Solomon is allergic to,

and what we could do to alleviate at least some of his misery.

The testing was nothing like the torture I remember

as a young child.

He did amazingly well,

in fact both the Dr. and nurse pronounced him

the best pediatric patient they have had during testing.

(EYE PENCIL FOR MARKING SHOT AREAS)

Now we visit twice a week for 3 shots in each arm.
Actually, Solomon refers to them as pinches
as the super cool nurse Lisa explained that
because she pinches a large amount of skin,
he doesn't feel the shot AT ALL.
She told him right from the start,
if he wanted her to pinch harder, she would.

A different nurse greeted us this week.

She was personable and quick

but apparently does not subscribe to the Big Pinch theory,

as recorded above.

Perhaps a different nursing school?

Perhaps moral/ethical reasons?

Or she may just be afraid of getting kicked,

as some fearful kids have done.

*********

Adrianna was finally given orders to see an orthodontist.

This week she went in for x-rays, pictures and impressions of her teeth.

I don't blame her for prohibiting The Canon in the office.

The pink substance that is put into the mold

appears to be a combination of Silly Putty and homemade Play Dough.

She did very well considering her gag reflex is quite touchy.
She goes back in December for the metal
and is already pondering color combinations.
*********

Oh, I picked up my new glasses as well.
Word of advice:
Don't wait 4 years to get your eyes checked
when in your 40's.
Vision changes quickly during this decade.

Bad pic taken from webcam

Remember your 1st Car?

2011-11-13T22:48:00.000-05:00

Nathan has been working for Doug

for years now during the summer

and as his schedule allows.

He is a very hard, focused employee

and as such has done some things

that some grown men would hire out.

He is quite frugal with his money

and has a nice stash of savings.

With both drivers ed sessions behind him

as well as the road test

it was time to look for a Jeep.

We all LOVED this baby.

I mean, can't you see the girls and I pull

up to the fairgrounds with the horses

hooked up behind?

Unfortunately, it was not in his budget.

AND

"everything doesn't have to be about horses"

~ quote by Solomon James

We test drove this the day it was listed

which was good because these Jeep's sell fast!

Many had slipped through our hands

before he grabbed on to this one and say yes!

It has a few minor issues

that made it affordable for him.

Thus begins

the countdown

to B-DAY!

(Side note: I have been told

I can borrow it whenever I need

to pull the horse trailer)

******

Nathan recently went to an all night

airsoft war.

I could forecast what his conditon would be

upon arrival back home

and was ready to record it for him.

He was too wiped out

to resist.

There are those times

when undressing

seems unnessary

for sleep to ensue.

Go for a walk

2011-11-13T21:40:00.000-05:00

Last week I walked outside with to shoot a few pics.

Solomon asked me to take a walk

and check out the fort area.

I was a little creeped out

crossing this bride.

Guess it is time to rebuild.

Even the London Bridge was reconstructed.

Kicked Out?

2011-11-06T20:24:00.000-05:00

My sister has told me that at some point in your child's teen years,

our pediatric dentist gracefully gives them the boot-

sending them prematurely into adulthood

by denying them the familiar, safe environment they have come to associate with

The Dentist.

To relax while watching the train

coming and going, only to appear again

while your teeth being cleaned

with your choice of Cotton Candy, Chocolate or Bubble Gum flavoring,

getting a baggie filled with a new Jr. toothbrush, toothpast and floss

PLUS your choice from the toy chest

is almost a Right of The Child, who cannot vote until they turn 18

so WHY deny them this childhood ritual of sorts?

I really thought last week would be The Day for Nathan.

I do not know the criteria used to determine when the child is ready for

The Boot,

but apparantly shoe size and ability to still fit in the largest chair are not on the list.

The Things Ya Do for Love

2011-11-06T19:55:00.000-05:00

Doug and the girls

recently built a hay feeder for the horses.

He can build anything that has been built

and if it hasn't, he will make a design for one.

When finished, the feeder will feature a lid of sorts

with 3x4" squares to reduce the amount of hay

thrown on the ground and wasted.

It will sit atop the hay and will drop as the hay is eaten.

This should also slow their rate of consumption.

Pretty clever.

River of course was extremely fearful

of the new addition to the pasture,

until she realized it was not a predator

and that it was actually quite beneficial

to her favorite activity.

The feeder has since been shingled in a muted red.

The top is still in production

and we are debating paint color.

Decisions, Decisions

2011-11-06T18:46:00.000-05:00

I lost my favorite ever Armani glasses

toward the end of the summer.

I searched everywhere.

In the grass where the bee stung me,

turned the truck that we took camping inside out,

called Panerra where we ate,

called the campground where we stayed,

in the tent that I slept in.

I REFUSED

to give up.

Until my eyes couldn't take

another day of burning

and my head tired of pounding.

I brought a few home last week

to get feedback from a few people.

Solomon felt he needed to actually

wear them awhile before deciding

what looked best on me.

"I Saw the Light"....

2011-11-01T14:55:00.001-04:00

Ok. It is a wierd and dated title

but I am sitting in a coffee house loading these pics
and the guitarist is singing gospel tonight.

The song reminded me of last week
when I was dusting in the library,

I had one those "light bulb" moments.

There, on the shelf

sat a small glimpse of a boy,

a profile view, that appears to be staged,

revealing the side of him that carries over into much of his life.

I did not move a thing before taking these two pics.

The military custom of everything having it's own place
has always suited Nathan-
for him, it is not a learned thing.

This flashcard was flipped up, as is.

*******

Nathan was recently named Honor Cadet

of his Squadron.

As such, he is also the Guideon Bearer

for the next 3 months.

(I do not know if Guide On is one word. It means flag.)

Tonight was PT (Physical Training)

Nathan does a pretty good mile.
(Unfortunately, as they were coming back in
I grabbed the Canon and found her to be an unwilling partner
in documenting the evening news.
I frantically changed only 2 of the batteries
and fumbling with settings.
The results are obvious.

Nathan prefers to start with or behind the fastest runner
and let that person lead

<> <>

He really enjoys the thrill
and challenge
of coming in from behind.

Tonight he ran a 6:08

Why I Did What I Did (confessions of a midnight gardener)

2011-10-16T12:43:00.000-04:00

1 of only 2 blooms.

In 8 years.

THAT is why I cut the stinkers back.

Way back.

I trimmed, pruned, moved, fed some but not others,

removed half the bush in many efforts

to get those heavy, gorgeous blooms.

This year I will cover with burlap.

2 blooms.

This is number two.

There is little color left,

something I intend to change for next fall.

The roses have yet to succumb,

along with a few stray hearty soldiers.

Imagine my immense disappointment

when my ALL WHITE mums

began to turn when the rains came.

They were gorgeous,

like a huge bouquet of miniature roses.

Now, they look like...

fall mums.

Therapy trick #2 is to walk out to the basil plant

several times daily and run your hands through it or better yet,

dead head it and pick a few leaves

for the salad or black bean burger.

Same goes for any remaining tomato plants.

(solar light added for night therapy)

One of my new favorites.

Teaser

2011-10-15T23:40:00.000-04:00

Last week was amazing but very bittersweet for those me. Sorta like that old cliche..."it is better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all". Hmm. The jury is still out on that in my book.

The feel of summer, while intoxicating, was overshadowed by the dramatic change in color and noticeably cooler nights. You can not fool me Michigan, I know what you have up your sleeve. And so it was with with a heavy heart that I proceeded to pretend that indeed, it was only June and took advantage of what I had for those few days of Indian Summer. I played with my camera. We tilled, limed and planted the pasture. Let the horses out for long feasts of grass and even longer hot sweaty rides. I spent 2 evenings pulling a trailer over nearly vertical railroad tracks into a huge, secluded hay field, driving barefoot, windows down, kids throwing bales into the trailer as I inhaled the sweet smell of Alfalfa. We spent the time that we are usually in the library during Nathan's German class romping new parks.

I spent long hours tending to my flower garden that sits ignored during summer's business. Dividing perennials, planting new found favorites and even removing (permanently) ones that I have never actually loved but never thought it was "OK" to remove-after all the gardener designed it so it must be good.

No more.

Even as I watched the leaves begin falling faster, I found freedom and peace in deciding what I want in my garden and the sweat, dirt and physical drain that tags along with overhauling such an area. Thanks to my amazing deal at Tractor Supply, I have a huge stock of solar lighting and found myself outdoors well after tuck-in time, enjoying the sounds and smells that only exist after sundown. Pruning a bush by moonlight (and a bit of help from Tractor Supply) is not something you will find recommended in the better gardening magazines but it is very therapeutic, especially at this time of the year. Fortunately the bush is forgiving and will come back in time. As will summer.

Escort

2011-10-07T09:16:00.000-04:00

This week I drove Nathan to Civil Air Patrol

and enjoyed a few hours spent reading.

While waiting, I received a call and a list

of things we HAD to have from the store.

That night.

Luckily a Family Fare was close by so after Nathan was finished for the night,

we drove over to fulfill our list.

We had quite a few second glances and stares,

me in my yoga pants and running shoes

and Nathan in his BDU's (camo's) and combat boots.

I'm CERTAIN that people were thinking that he was home on leave

and what a cute couple we made...

*uh uhm*

SO...back to Civil Air Patrol and the terminology.

This presented me with a few difficulties which I a slowly overcoming.

Why not camo's?

No, it is Battle Dress Uniform (BDU's).

Dress Blue's-now that I get.

What is most terrifying is memorizing

ALL THOSE RANKS.

This is the auxilliary of the USAF and as such, everything is done to their standards.

Everything.

Including the exact placement of anything that gets sewn on to the uniform.

This isn't sitting down the day of a Boy Scout meeting quickly tacking on

a few thin merit badges to a think cotton shirt.

Between the thickness of the BDU's and the badges

I had bent needles and bleeding fingers.

Fortunately, Nathan found an exceptional seamstress

who did it by machine.

Nathan spent a full week 5 hours away at an Air Force Base at Encampment.

Think bootcamp.

5 am PT (physical training).

Hospital corners on beds using yardstick and ruler for precision.

No speaking during meals.

No milk, juice, pop. No dessert unless your flight leader thought your group

had an exceptional day. (Leader always got milk, juice, dessert)

Classes covering military customs and regulations.

Also because of the aspirations of these kids,

encampment also meant taking over the controls of a Cessna in flight

and getting a pull up in a glider and pulling the release the float mercilessly

at hand of your pilot. Nathan had a retired F-18 pilot in his glider

who asked him if he liked roller coaster rides...perfect match.

Graduation was amazing and full of emotion. True military style. (And length).

Important brass came for the occasion.

Nathan's good friend Tyler, who introduced him to C.A.P.

Heading to Subway, for "real food" (?)

I love being a part of my children's life everyday...

Watching them become all that God created them to be

and helping them fulfill their dreams.

Prior to that...

2011-10-03T10:11:00.000-04:00

September 17, 1997

The Day Franchesca was Born

We were at fair on Franchesca's birthday this year.

My Mom surprised her by bringing a cake to Allegan.

And telling the announcer that it was her birthday.

This post really should have come before

our anniversary post and then I developed a cold

and I've spent my extra time (night)

doing some catchup work in my garden...

So Happy 14th Birthday

Franchesca Grace James

We were planning her family cake party for

the next day but Solomon became ill.

We cancelled the party

and brought a few gifts up to my room

so Solomon could watch. Lily got to come too.

That was then, this is now

2011-09-20T22:56:00.000-04:00

Beyond 1992

It isn't the all white, fairytale wedding
but the marriage has withstood
the tests of life.
And it is good.

Photographer for following pics: The Kids

Lost: Wedding

2011-09-20T09:43:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was our anniversary.
19th to be exact.

Having a pretty sick child who wanted me to sit next to him all day afforded me the luxury of spending over an hour putting together a grand post, filled with words, not just pics.. A thoughtful post, overflowing with details, emotions, detailed descriptions of the event contrasting the beautiful, all white, fairytale wedding day to the reality of how to traverse the path of marriage during the good and the not so good.

When I tried to preview the post, an "error" showed up in red. Deciding to forego the preview, I hit "Publish" only to see "there was an error in saving this post". Quickly checking my draft posts, I was stunned. In this high tech world, my precious post that I spent much thought and time on- was gone.

So. I will simply post a few "Then" pics and leave the story to your imagination, cherishing the details in my mind.

Persistance

2011-09-18T22:37:00.000-04:00

After being on the road commission's "list" of ditches that need cleaned out and various u-turns on my part to climb up on county dump trucks to talk to the drivers about what could be done, we finally found a solution. Without mentioning "The Gatekeeper" and the obsurd hoops we jumped through to get ahold of the right individual, we simply filled out an application, paid a measly $10 to the county (then paid a whole lot more to rent the excavator) and simply did it ourselves.

There is hope for a great (dry)horse pasture someday.

BIG SHOUT OUT TO

QUALITY LAKESHORE LANDSCAPING

FOR BEING SO GENEROUS

WITH THEIR DUMP TRUCK!!

and to the volunteer who drove the dumper

and enjoyed air conditioning all day..

Everyone helped

Delivering water was essential

A job always needs

way too many supervisors

And of course,

a photographer

This was Doug's idea of fun

Changes

2011-09-18T20:59:00.001-04:00

You may have noticed that I've changed things around a bit. The blog for bits, bridles, halters and all things equine related can be found at http://www.thebeautyofthehorse.blogspot.com

There is also a link on this site to it if you do not know how or care to bookmark. I will be posting our kids as well our friends of equine on there so if you are interested in following Jamesgang kids, you should visit that site.

This spring Nathan joined Michigan Civil Air Patrol which is the auxilary of the United States Air Force and is a perfect fit for him. He has always been a very regimented, organized, militaristic type of kid and boy, does this program let his talents, strengths and dreams come alive. Even the PT comes natural to him- the first week he ran the mile in less than 6:30 with no prep at all. Bragging aside, I will post more on his amazing week at encampment soon. Here are a few pics of my eldest baby boy...

Project II

2011-09-06T09:43:00.000-04:00

I found a few more pics from Eagle Project

This is a swamp in the spring.

How to get er done...

Removing the unsightly the hard way,

Or, doing it the easy way.
Seems that little pine wouldn't need a chain saw.

Solomon still struggles with peeing in the woods.
Some folks don't.

This was our only way out until the bridge goes in.
Good thing I was in gymnastics cause
I wasn't about to butt scoot across that thing.

My "vacation"

2011-09-05T13:13:00.002-04:00

Several weeks ago I realized that other than 5 Day Camp, I really didn't do much away from home. (I did 1 overnight with a friend, shout out to her right now).

I realized that the usual pattern is for Doug to take the boys, either on campouts or airshows or....so I decided to take the older 2 and gave them the directive to "take me on vacation". What started out with stinging bees and being rear ended out into M-45 turned into a fabulous mini vacation of playing cards, reading, floating down lazy creeks, battling waves, taking a dune schooner ride. Eating Turtle sundaes and black bean burgers on the grill with guac, hummus and pita chips. Didn't they pack well? My only concession was the coffee; we still haven't bought one of those nifty camping coffee making gadgets so it was jarred Starbucks Frappies which I grow less fond of each time I drink one.

My Eagle setting up camp

Home away from home

Free facial from the sandstorm

The wait for the schooner ride (over an hour)

Nathan picked the wrong seat. The driver got a towel out
but all those soaked people just watched as he
dried the schooner off...

Franchesca and I were thankful
he took the hit for us!
We were chilly from the breeze and we were dry!

The water is SO much cleaner as you go north.

Aaaah.
Vacation.
Thanks for an amazing time guys.

Eagle Project

2011-09-05T00:15:00.000-04:00

As Nathan nears the end of his Scouting career, there are a few things he needs to wrap up before turning in his paperwork to the board for review for his Eagle Scout rank. He has been working on developing a hiking trail in 30 acres that belongs to Allegan County.

You find out who really follows the Scout oaths/laws (like helpfulness, servanthood, etc.) when your project is cutting trails in 90 degree weather, through a dark, swampy, mosquito infected forest. The kids and I helped on occassion, my primary job was photographer but once I got those loppers in my hand, I went sort of crazy. Everywhere I looked, I saw low hanging branches waiting to slap someone in the face or scratch their cornea.

He is nearing completion. He has one final bridge to build and install, then some final detailing.

I remember when he first joined Boy Scouts. What a great experience it has been for him and how the years of selling popcorn have become a blur as he wraps up this stage in his Scouting career and is now juggling Civil Air Patrol with the growing list of responsibilities that come with being 15. And a half.

He had great weather at Camp Gerber in July which was a blessing as he was in/near the water all day. He is now a BSA and Red Cross Certified Lifeguard. When we traveled up there Wednesday evening for family night firebowl, we followed past tradition and brought him Subway in the cooler. The boys in that troop were like vultures hovering over, well the things they hover over, waiting for the feast. They acted as though we had bought him a new car.

Walking silently to firebowl

He grows more each time he leaves my sight

A Sad Farewell

2011-09-03T09:39:00.000-04:00

WE WILL MISS YOU TANZY!

4-H Five Day Camp 2011

2011-09-01T13:14:00.000-04:00

If only it was longer....

More hours in the day

2011-09-01T11:14:00.000-04:00

Just when the days are beginning to get shorter, I have found more time!!! Being pumped full of Prednisone offers the benefits of killing off even infected poison ivy AND keeping you awake for thet month that it is flowing through your veins. When I mentioned it to my Dr. she said that I should be glad I am not Bipolar to begin with as I would probably require heavy medication to offset the already natural tendancy to go manic. As if I wouldn't already be glad I am not bipolar.

I'm thinking of these stretches into 3:00am as a gift, the gift of of quiet time to finally begin blogging.

Again.

(Summer 2011) Going, going.......

2011-08-31T17:33:00.000-04:00

I feel like I slept right through summer

I think it needs to begin afresh

Weed the flower garden in May, not late August

Get to the beach

Get up early. Really early

Visit more people

Pick blueberries

Pick raspberries

Take more weekend vacations

Get those horses out to Lake Michigan!

Hindsight

(She WAS just smiling)

Retraction. Ode to Adrianna

2011-07-11T02:07:00.000-04:00

Many moons ago, I mentioned somewhere within a blog that Adrianna does not like being photographed. This has been bothering me since. I knew I was wrong. I knew the false statement needed redeemed, if only for myself.

Tonight as I am awake to the point of mania, I have renewed my desire to begin posting again. The redemption post has been calling me.

Adrianna is a very happy child, mostly when A. Reading or B. With animals. She also loves blus. Apparantly during the summer too as many of the photots are in the water. She must get that from me.When she is not so happy is when she is A. Overtired and B. Overheated and C. (big one) Hasn't eaten enough (which is quite often). She also gets all of these from me.

I had fun remembering all these happy, smiling times when she readily accepted being the focus of the lens.

More uh, boy stuff

2011-04-04T20:48:00.000-04:00

We just left from a friend's house, where we all left with a variety of items, including food. Solomon's friend gave him a little container of a substance I have never heard of but am not surprised by. It probably cost very little but it is worth it's weight in gold (to him).
It is called Flarp. Under the name in smaller letters: noise putty.

I am quite certain that only mother's of boys will understand this post. Or maybe I really do live in under a rock.

This kid is really, very easily entertained and amused to the point of breathlessness.

Make due post

2011-03-26T23:49:00.000-04:00

I am down graded tonight to the laptop which for some reason has had all media erased? moved? transferred? stolen? Next project: stream it to this guy. Nathan has several flight simulators now that he is learning a TON on and so I have much competition for the pc. I had such a great post in mind too, one that has been bugging me.

I will instead vaguely hint to Solomon's latest prompt to uncontrollable laughter. We watched the movie "Secretariat" together and if you have seen it you probably remember several very funny parts, especially the ones that refer to body parts and every time it is repeated, it becomes funnier and funnier...I have explained to him that this is one of those phrases that stay within our family (not a family "secret" just a family joke) lest someone who has not seen the movie (for shame) should think this is a common phrase around our house. If only I had a photo of him rolling around the floor unable to stop laughing.

I have few pics to choose from that came loaded. I shall choose one that best lifts my spirits.

So much for lifting my spirits.

Mums remind me of fall

AND

of Marigolds-the smell of which haunts me

from some previous life.

Hydrangeas only produce anxiety about my own garden

and the ever unspoken question:

"Will the Hydrangeas bloom THIS year?

WILL THE HYDRANGEAS EVER BLOOM?

My rival pics to choose from were

*Penguins

*Desert Scene

Bye Bye MR.MICHIGAN WINTER! (ha)

2011-03-22T23:32:00.005-04:00

aaah

a new look

a new season

finally, glad for change

Holiday Perspective

2010-12-25T00:56:00.000-05:00

Lots of people I know

are making changes this holiday season.

Some are adding new traditions,

some are throwing several out the door.

Most are making their choices,

despite much resistance from outside forces.

Others have no choice

but to let change occur.

We have always been very firm believers

in cutting our own fresh trees

for Christmas.

Real trees.

Ok, the kind that actually smell.

The sort that you hunt for in snow pants,

with everyone pointing in different directions,

the dog sniffing madly

and someones boots ALWAYS

continue to come untied. With all but 2 people pulling

branches apart to let the ones with the saw belly crawl under to

work madly at first then begin ordering everyone to

just push itthe rest of the way over.

Hot chocolate and cookies usually are on the house

as part of the cost of the tree and are always welcomed.

This happens to be a "make due" season for me,

in many ways as raising 4 children on a small farm

sometimes leaves no choice but

make due.

Solomon REALLY needed a tree one night and he and Doug

were actually going to buy a PRE-CUT tree

as I was not feeling well.

By the time they arrived at the nearest neon lighted

parking lot converted into a field of aromatic pines,

it was freezing rain. No deal.

They returned with Doug telling Solomon

to go dig out the "artificial" tree that we used

in our fifth wheel adventure in 2005.

He thought that sounded like a fun project to work on

until we could finally bring home The Tree.

Days flew by and ornaments began to adorn fake tree

until we all decided that we were fine with the fake tree

for this year. We even realized that it matters very little.

It felt different, a change beyond my control, filled with memories of

celebrating Christmas in the Florida Keys and the same ornaments

that filled our huge "real trees" were condensed this year

to fit our smallish, fake tree that doesn't smell like anything

and even fits into our dining room.

And It's okay.

This is how small the tree is.

I like to need a laddar to decorate the top 1//3.

This is also a reflection of how everyone

has grown.

After wrapping tonight

with the lights off but for the

sparkle of the mini lights,

I felt secure and serene,

peaceful knowing

that I have successfully

walked through one more change

and I am still okay.

Thankful for yet another

Christmas with a healthy family

and focusing

on what is real and meaningful

even if it is artificial.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Thanksgiving: Not just a day, but a way of life.

2010-11-26T00:37:00.000-05:00

Our traditional home cooked Thanksgiving feast:

includes roasted turkey, sage dressing, mashed garlic potatoes,

candied carrots, steamed broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes

and Nana's famous dinner rolls...

AJ's "special menu" request:

frozen Tyson chicken patty and

homemade fries.

We have much to be thankful for not just today

but for always.

How in the WORLD?

2010-11-15T20:06:00.000-05:00

Yes, the frog on my sidebar is real.

It was found in the kids bathroom

suctioned to the trim board.

As my trusty Boy Scout manhandled him

with an empty toilet paper roll,

he began leaping around the bathroom,

eventually ending up perched on the comode lid.

Just like a prince on his throne.

For real.

The. End.

2010-11-11T23:15:00.000-05:00

I know it is coming. Michigan weather is so deceptive. I didn't want to feel as though I missed my last opportunity to enjoy the Lake; letting The Weather fool me into thinking I had endless days to take that last walk. What a day to climb Mt. Pisgah and enjoy the warmer air up there. I'm sure you can guess who the first one up was. NOT me.

The signs didn't mention anything about not hanging ABOVE the boardwalk...

And NOTHING about not doing splits on the railing.

Or throwing your brother over..

**BLOG NOTE: Adrianna does not enjoy being photographed.

I make no distinction between my children

and do not keep track of who is posted how often

I would rather not post the emotional reaction on her face

to a camera.

I shall hold those for her wedding slide show.

Sentences

2010-11-11T22:53:00.000-05:00

photo from today at Mt. Pisgah

So I asked Solomon to read some words and use them in a sentence.

"Scrubbed....um. Ok, yeah: I scrubbed really hard on your panties"

When he saw the look of horror on my face

he fell into that uncontrolable fit of raging laughter

and then continued using the word on other notable things like underwear, etc.

I have NO IDEA where he came up with that

but it sure did feel good to laugh.

I Dreamed A Dream

2010-11-07T00:24:00.000-04:00

The little girl

lives inside

no matter the age

nor stature

nor station in life.

Wrestling

with what was

and is

and is to come.

Stunned

to realize her

childhood longing

come to fruition

at last.

The missing piece

now found,

grateful all the more

from the wait.

My horse: River

"A lovely horse is always an experience..

It is an emotional experience of the kind

that is spoiled by words".

-Beryl Markham

Lots of ribbons came home from Allegan this year!

2010-10-26T23:18:00.003-04:00

These two girls have come a LONG way in the last six months!

We'll be back Allegan County Fair!

More Fair 2010

2010-10-26T23:11:00.002-04:00

English and bareback too

This is her favorite event

Good job Suz, even with a bag leg

That braid took all morning and a bottle of hair spray

Our 4-h leader pressured AJ to do this trail class

and what do you know? She liked it and did well

Fair 2010

2010-10-26T22:37:00.003-04:00

Rainy Day 1: Gymkhana

Western

AJ was in tears after being disqualified because her horse was limping.

Grabbed a new mount and took 1st.

So much more relaxed and fun than day 1

The setup

The judges were so encouraging and kind

Adoption Day

2010-09-26T18:44:00.003-04:00

Some really cool friends

let us borrow their boat

for a day of sun and fun

to celebrate.

Doug's goal was to pitch Nathan.

He did.

Day Away Part II

2010-09-26T18:27:00.002-04:00

Favorite Place, Favorite People

Day Away

2010-09-26T17:59:00.002-04:00

Holding on to summer (clinging)

2010-08-14T14:02:00.003-04:00

We miss you Misty! You are the best!

Life slips away just like hourglass sand..

2010-08-14T13:48:00.002-04:00

A Time To Blog

2010-08-14T13:34:00.003-04:00

Open Eyes

2010-05-19T20:19:00.001-04:00

Only 12 days old.

All but 1 has a potential new home.

Of course, Nathan does have 1st pick.

Even if you don’t like cats, aren’t they darling? (come on).

Life on the farm.

Franchesca was cut out…

2010-05-19T20:09:00.001-04:00

of the last picture. I’m trying to do this from Windows Live and learning new things takes me a bit. Apparently, when I sized up, it cut her out.

My reasonable goal is to now post pics, even if no explanation.

Can ANYONE tell me what happened to the words in my past posts??? Come on techies.

The Good ole’ out of doors

2010-05-19T20:03:00.001-04:00

FINALLY

Where did my old posts go?

2010-05-10T13:23:00.002-04:00

Probably Blogland's way of getting me for failing to post for so long.

My pics are there but no text....

Over the few months we have had to get new cell phones, change emails, buy new desktop and laptop and new camera.

It's been a lot to learn so the blog, well just didn't rank.

Now, to learn to post pics from the phone...

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T22:25:00.005-04:00

I don't think an education would be complete without experiencing a living creature giving birth.

To that end, Willow was never fixed. Judge me if you must. This was little Willow who, last year was Solomon's birthday gift.

Before Kawasaki was hit by a car and killed, he and Willow got together and as AJ describes it..."got engaged". The rusults of cat engagement are below.

5 kittens to be exact.

This is what is meant by a living education.

Willow showned the true

quiet strength of a new mother,

not a screaming, frantic maniac

calling for an epidural.

She has grown, matured and settled

into her devoted role as Mother.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

NOW-WHO WANTS A KITTEN????

Name Change

2010-02-13T15:10:00.004-05:00

So, Solomon has been sick for a week now. Another lost Saturday for him.

Nathan was called in to work today.

Your employeer can do that last minute when he is also your Daddy.

Franchesca is overcome by another frigid day blanketed in snow.

Also not feeling well.

Aj ( now Rosemary) has locked herself into her bed with the latest in her series.

I've no further info on the name change, it just happened.

I'm guessing she is dreaming of summer (think herb) like the rest of us.

Or maybe just needing something new.

Weddings and things

2010-02-10T16:19:00.005-05:00

Sometimes I forget that Nathan is just 14.

We were getting on the freeway to go to a class when he spotted a sign and suggested that the girls and I attend the Bridal Party it was advertising.

I thought a second and glanced at him sideways. He said "You know, that thing the horses wear, it's called a bridle".

Solomon declared my mom's homemade candy to be "the best food I've ever eaten in my life".

Great New Find from Ikea

2010-01-03T15:56:00.004-05:00

Horsie cake pans and cookie cutters! The girls had fun with this.

2010-01-03T15:36:00.002-05:00

The Annual Shot By the Tree

Farewell 2009

2010-01-01T17:59:00.005-05:00

A few catch ups from the fall/winter

And a promise to self
to record more memories

Cloudy Cold Camp Gerber 2009

2009-07-02T12:00:00.005-04:00

Nathan (extreme left), ready to come home and eat (and get warm and sleep). 2 more days.

Short!

2009-07-02T11:51:00.006-04:00

Sometimes a girl just needs something new.

Really new.

When June feels like October, it's that time.

Triplets and Country Living

2009-06-30T21:17:00.003-04:00

Poor, poor AJ REALLY needed a kitten as she was the solitary child without a mewing, pouncing, scratching, sleeping feline.

What's 1 more, right?

We've got a boy now; Apachee, who is Spicey and Willow's brother, so sign up for next spring's litter. Don't worry about a little in-breeding, animals do that and still come out with all their fingers and toes.

I think we must qualify as a farm now.

Old News

2009-06-30T21:04:00.003-04:00

Solomons birthday gift, placed on his pillow. Her name is Willow.

Doug's home done ice cream cake.

Solomon's family party Strawberry Shortcake

He had chocolate with his friends.

Let's Play Anne of Green Gables

2009-06-30T20:56:00.003-04:00

The girls had a tent sleepover recently.

I was pretending not to hear all the silly ideas

they came up with.

Solomon graciously allowed them

to borrow his new inflatable boat

at which point someone proclaimed

"I get to be Dianna

so I can pass out and throw up".

What's new?

2009-06-05T11:12:00.005-04:00

Well, let me see...

And, oh yeah

And Spicey, Franchesca's new kitten

Hey, we didn't name him Solomon for nothing

2009-04-19T18:40:00.004-04:00

Some recent words from Solomon that I will ponder for a lifetime:

"Mama, is our house like the whole world to a ladybug?"

"My coach said we're having a SKIMPAGE this week against another team"

And, while sitting on my lap listening to a story he began laughing and said:

"Cool, I just went gas, did you feel that?"

I tried explaining that he would say "I HAD gas" but he was too busy rolling on the floor in fits of gut wrenching laughter.

Spring Sports

2009-04-19T18:24:00.005-04:00

Solomon has started practice for Little League. It is his first official "thing" off of our property.

Doug moved him up to the 7-8 year old team as he felt he was overqualified for t-ball. He will start the season as a 6 year old and looks smallish compared to some but boy can he run the bases.

He enjoyed trying on Nathan's new dirt bike boots when they arrived at the door. He did have a bit of a sizing issue (mens size 11).

We initially thought these were baseballs out in our swamp until Nathan followed some geese close enough to find they were GOOSE EGGS! AJ trekked out with the camera and putting her very life on the line, got some up close pics of them. She discredits my advise about what a mad mamma goose may do.

Canine Cake

2009-04-19T18:13:00.004-04:00

Lily just turned 1!

It seems not that long ago we were comlaining about the hot temps, outside behind Harbor Lights School, watching her romp with her 7 brothers and sisters as we tried to imagine which one would be perfect for us.

Another year...

She told Adrianna that she wanted

pizza and Rainbow Chip cupcakes.

Another birthday with no

homemade cake.

Imagine a dog wanting a cakemix.

Being that it WAS her birthday

we bought the mix.

Here she is drooling over her pizza (frozen)

waiting for the ok to eat.

Here she waits patiently for her release to devour her cupcake.

Sugar anyone?

2009-04-13T20:48:00.004-04:00

My mom has started to show the girls some tricks she learned from a cake decorating class.

Here, Easter cupcakes were the canvas on which to begin to practice. Unlimited colors of frosting, shapes and sizes of tips and bowls filled with bunnies, jelly beans, Hershey kisses and peanut M&M lay before them. How much fun was that?

We actually had to cut the lesson short as someone (?) developed a tummy ache. She thinks it may have been too much sugar. Ya think?

"I Thought Spring Was Warm"- AJ

2009-04-13T20:40:00.005-04:00

Adrianna has been lamenting over the harsh truths of Spring. Gray skies. Muddy yards. Rushing Wind. Rocks and sticks waiting to be picked up.

I shared some of my motherly wisdom with her a few days ago when she just "couldn't get warm, no matter what".

Here she is sporting my sleeping hat while working on her typing. She was pleasantly surprised at how much heat can be held in by a simple cotton hat.

In Memory

2009-04-01T16:24:00.002-04:00

Oliver died today.

He was Franchesca's cat.

He was kind, gentle and gorgeous.

Keep on Truckin'

2009-03-24T19:38:00.004-04:00

The girls and I drove the truck, pulling a horse trailer, to Niles on Saturday to pick up this little girl

Isn't she adorable? Her name is Lady.

We started the trip crossing the Kalamazoo River with a semi on our left side and a too-short railing on our right. After sweating that one out I decided I could handle anything else the trip could throw at us. Doug offered to drive us down but I needed a challenge and he always has too much to do.

She is so small we couldn't even tie her into the trailer and made several stops to check on her and feed her a few treats. She spent the first day feeling nervous and unsure but by day 2 was following us around, nickering when we first enter the barn and her personality was beginning to shine through. She is perfect for AJ.We still have Lady and Misty seperated thought they can touch noses and smell each other. This weekend we will open the gate and see how they do.

Misty is beginning to lose her winter coat, with much help from Franchesca. Here she is still needing a trip to the salon.

Oh and on the subject of Franchesca, does she have some straight teeth or what?

Multi Purpose Tool

2009-03-19T21:46:00.003-04:00

Solomon lost his 1st tooth yesterday

He has been impatiently waiting for the day.

He was behind the couch

with some Playmobile guys

using his teeth

to pull their hair and hats off

when "out flew something white".

When he showed me

and I confirmed that indeed

he pulled his tooth out,

he began sobbing.

The realities of

growing up

are somtimes heartwrenching.

Where Has She Been?

2009-03-16T20:43:00.004-04:00

Meet Misty.

She came less than 24 hours ago but already if feels as if she has been here for years.

This one has been around the block and back and is perfect for kids.

Unlike me, she gets a nice warm coat to shield her from Michigan's Torment. We spent a good amount of time today in the warm sunshine, getting to know her and trying to help her shed some of this amazing coat. She rolled in our mud right away and as you can see we only got her front half brushed out but if the weather forcast is correct we will try to give her a full bath tomorrow.

She is like a pocket pet, who will follow Franchesca around the field all day. She is the perfect size and personality. Finally.

Test

2009-03-16T20:08:00.004-04:00

Saturday was the annual Holland Area Piano Teachers Assoc. Student Achievement Tests at Hope College. This was Franchesca's first year for the test as she has always convinced her piano teacher that she just "wasn't ready" (read: nervous). Aside from the actual performing, the sheer number of kids/parents roaming the halls going here and there is overwhelming, not to mention the start time at 8:45 a.m. Who wouldn't rather stay in bed?

So, the students are tested in 4 areas including Performance, which is tested by playing 3 different pieces, from memory while the nice (you hope) judge sits, pencil and paper in hand...

The total of each section is worth 25 points for a total of 100 points possible. I had set a goal well in advance for each of the kids, telling them that if they reached a certain total points, there would be a reward (details aren't important) but Nathan went on for days whining about how that was totally unrealistic and they would never reach that. He has reached that score in the past so I told him to ask his teacher for a hefty goal. She told him almost nobody ever gets a 100 and that the goal was indeed large but not impossible.

I need to say here that we received a large book of piano's greatest classics with our piano and that Franchesca has always loved to sit and try to teach herself from the book. She played a few for her teacher, who encouraged her to play those for the test. Theses songs are Level 7 songs. She is in Level 3. These were difficult pieces.

The morning was a breeding ground for anxiety as each student has their own time for each test, so until that time you can find a practice room or WAIT. She wouldn't read her book, do crossword puzzles, nothing to distract. It is as though she needed to feel the agony, each minute tick by; WAITING.

At the end of the day they both felt fairly good about their work. We finally got off campus just in time to get caught in the traffic of the Green Parade, barely making our way to the Good Earth for some chow to settle our nerves.

Saturday night Mrs. Koeman left a voice mail telling the kids their scores. We were amazed to hear that Franchesca got a 99 on her total and Nathan scored 96.75. They surpassed their goal. I knew they could.

2009-03-13T09:44:00.003-04:00

Last night Doug took the girls to the 20th Annual Father/Daughter Banquet at The Pinnacle Center.
I knew I should have pinned a PBJ under Adrianna's dress for fear of her starving. They were served "chicken with grill marks on it, plain white rice and vegetables that were so soft that you could put them on the roof of your mouth and squish them there". She did have 2 dinner rolls and 2 pieces of chocolate cake. Cake always saves the day does it not?

Getting her hair even brushed out is very traumatic for Adrianna. It can easily become a battleground filled with tears, grim attitudes and threats to cut it short like Solomons (her threat, not mine). These curls took awhile and even a book couldn't distract her the entire time. Upon completion, she asked to pull it back into a pony. I countered with an offer to pull the front off her face. I was pleasantly surprised that she didn't ask to wear her mud boots.

Franchesca came home with smiles and stories of Jimmy Needham (the musician) asking his wife to marry him by sending her on a scavener hunt in an evening gown AND MUD BOOTS! through a wet field to a gazebo where he played/sang a song he wrote for her asking her to be his wife.

2009-03-12T09:25:00.004-04:00

Nathan stayed home with Solomon last week for a bit and to pass the time, they played Monopoly. I was surprised and shocked upon returning, to hear that the younger had WON. Not that he isn't capable of playing the game, or winning but Nathan has been able to slaughter every oppponant at that game since he first learned to play. He is very aggressive in his buying and thinks of naught but victory.

Unfortunately, the present reality of housing and taxes proved to be foe that he could not escape.

Nathan has struggled to be a gracious loser but this time he handled it well and even took these pics for proof.

Nine years ago

2009-03-11T20:01:00.003-04:00

It was 79 degrees the day that Adrianna was born.

I took the 2 "older kids", (then ony 2 and 4) to the house of a friend in downtown Holland. She lived near a park and we walked the 3 blocks to Moran Park. I still remember I had on black leggins and a black/white striped long sleeve shirt. The walk back to her house seemed to take forever in that heat and my condition. I think it was the walk back that sent me to the hospital 2 hours later.

We set records that day for warm temps. Sure wish we could do that again sometime soon! My, how the years do proceed at great speed.

Here is a little something that Doug and Nathan whipped up in the barn while the girls and I drove to see the mini horses on her birthday.

Once again, the James blood prevailed in the Choosing of The Cake. Nothing baked at home with love. Nothing that requires days of labor and many bowls. No sweet fragrance filling the rooms leaving all who smell longing for The Moment. Nope, it was DQ Ice Cream Cake. With blue frosting and horses on top.

Blurt

2009-03-02T16:26:00.003-05:00

I opted out of the game of Blurt last night to stand right up on the hearth, something I do when I simply can not get warm. I observed the game in action and cautiously grabbed the camera. I got away with a few non-scripted pics of my children with their best manners.

Before long, they caught on and put on their poker faces.

I couldn't see Doug, FGJ or Solomon from that angle.

I presume they were eating 1 kernal at a time.

Please Excuse the Mess

2009-02-28T13:37:00.004-05:00

While Doug was playing cards, Nathan was playing air soft in the dark and the 3 smaller kids watched Black Beauty, I chose to mess with my blog. I can easily have my mood lifted by making slight changes in ANYTHING; moving furniture around, rearranging a cupboard, cleaning out the medicine cabinet or even parting my hair on the opposite side (sounds mildly neurotic but that's life when you stay in Michigan all winter).

So, here's to the days getting longer, warming up and becoming more of a friend than a foe.

Perhaps I do have time to blog on occasion. As we know, there hasn't been a day since the beginning that the sun has not been shining. We don't always see it, it is there, but oh what power is in it when it does break through.

Words of Wisdom

2009-02-27T20:06:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, Adrianna approached me and asked if I heard her practicing "Oh, I Wish I Was in Winn Dixie" on the piano. (She has seen the movie and ? thinks that is a city in the south? )
Solomon was reading to me some story with a character by the name of Will. He found this terribly funny for some reason and I asked him if he knew what my Dad's name is (William). He responded in a very sarcastic, confident bordering on arrogant tone, and said "OF COURSE, DADDY"! (We didn't name him Solomon for nothing).

Most kids go through a phase when potty words or any words having to do with bodily functions are extremely funny. If someone tries to suggest that perhaps we shouldn't make fun of perfectly normal but sometimes personal incidents, they become even more tantalizing to the tongue. Solomon has been a bit delayed with his interest in these ideas and has begun repeating things that don't even make sense just to hear the word. Several days ago I was applying creme to Franchesca's hands for winter dry skin and he began insisting that he have some. When I told him his skin is as soft as a baby's bottom he busted out and hasn't stopped exclaiming the beauty and sheer genius of that phrase.

Words take on an entire new meaning when they rhyme with gas or butt.

Oh, I wish I WAS in Dixie, or anywhere warm and sunny.

(Pic from Florida 2005)

Blue Eyes

2009-02-27T19:29:00.007-05:00

I pack up the kids homework when they have finished a subject or book, one more good use for those plastic tubs with lids. (No, definately not eco-friendly).

I always have fun looking back on earlier years to see how far we've come, especially in the area of handwriting and drawing. We often have 3-ring binders with special papers or just sketches in them from that year and I often slide a photo of that person in the front of the binder to show who it belongs to and what they looked like that year.

I recentely came across on of AJ's. Check out this fantastic pic (not referring to photo quality but to subject matter). I don't have a digital copy of this so I shot the original (tacky but true).

OOOH, I want another one of these. They should use her for doll prototype. I've changed my type color to blue in her honor.

Growing, in size, age and wisdom

2009-02-07T21:26:00.003-05:00

UUUUUUM. Yes, if anyone is still following this blog-I haven't given up.

I told myself one particularly difficult day when I was feeling the pressure of _____(lots) that I was done blogging. Boy did that take the anxiety away but the residual feeling of something left undone remained and so.....

I thought what I would do tonight before closing my eyes is throw up a few pics. No explanations, no title, not a hint as to the story behind them. Somehow, just seeing this page waiting to be filled, I feel unable to post without adding something, even the (illegal in our house) word "um". More on that another time.

Nathan recently sold his first dirtbike on Craigslist (yes, even in the midst of Michigan's worst season) and bought a bigger, faster, more ominous sounding replacement. He couldn't stay off, even in the snow.

Did I mention he celebrated his 13th Birthday on January 19? Back blogging is so frustrating. One would guess I don't like doing this from my infrequent posts.

AJ, Sporting Green

2009-01-23T20:43:00.007-05:00

I have a friend who blesses us with clothes for Solomon when her boys outgrow them. She recently gave me a bag in which I found these cool sunglasses. Her little guy must have accidentally thrown them in.

AJ found them on the counter and decided to wear them as she was playing waitress at lunchtime. Is it the hair or why do I see my sisters during the 70"s??

Be Nice, You Two

2009-01-23T20:26:00.005-05:00

Nathan and Franchesca were goofing around on his birthday, she was singing Happy Birthday in her opera voice and generally bugging him; throwing things in his hair repeatedly after he had asked her to stop. Being a boy, he resorted to physical dominance to try to subdue his (perceived) attacker.

I was huddled UP on the hearth, in front of the fire trying to generate some heat. (See future blog for advise from teenage son on this topic). I had been playing with my camera, deleting pics and pretending to shoot a few for "technical reasons". I was recording them the entire time. I got a few shots of them in the midst of the struggle for control. It was super funny to see him get her hands tied and make her promice to stop just to watch her throw more decor into his hair and the battle resume. Frequently, she will be injured from this sort of play. She always returns. They are only 20 months apart and have always been really good friends.

OOOOOKAY...?

2009-01-23T20:08:00.003-05:00

Keeping up with this house is an ongoing, never ending series of little tasks, that when done consistantly, will keep the officials from condeming it. Nothing formal although I've researched lots of ideas and tried several official "systems". One thing that I have to do is when I notice that 1 of the commodes needs cleaned is to immediately get the cleaner (which is blue), raise the lid, coat the bowl and leave. Someone (including myself) eventually needs to use the facilities, wonders about the blue and reminds me that it needs scrubbed. If I walk away without first coating, forget it. Today I coated the bowl early in my bathroom early, then walked away. Later I asked Solomon to assist me with the 14 t-shirts of his waiting to be carried to his room. As he walked past, he moaned "OOOH, I LOVE THAT TOILET SMELL".

Here he is at Nathan's Boys Only Sledding Party

Good Word Picture

2009-01-13T19:15:00.003-05:00

Today Franchesca was working on a story and including this: "The fear melted away like a Popsicle in 100 degree weather". I could really get ahold of that.

Here she is with Lily. Obviously not in the recent weeks.

Kids ask lots of questions

2009-01-13T19:06:00.003-05:00

Today we had been talking about vertibrates and such which prompted Solomon to ask "Momma, when you were in Florida, did you almost step on one of those poisionous Jell-O fishes?".

It reminds me of when Nathan would call the thing on the wall the "billitin board" and other such adorable words and phrases that I wish I would have put down in writing somewhere.

The Breakfast of Champions

2009-01-10T20:12:00.003-05:00

I've been a bit concerned about Adrianna's limited food list as it is shrinking (and there has never been a ton on it). She doesn't like very many foods and honestly, isn't really interested in eating very often (she MUST get that from Doug).

This week in an effort to get some good, old fashioned FAT into her (not the good kind either) and encourage her appitite, I bought her favorite thing: frozen, breaded chicken. (Horror).

She was tucked in when I returned from the store so I told her what I had bought and said goodnight. When morning arrived, she actually jumped up, made her bed, got dressed and began pleading for me to let her have "just 1?" piece of chicken for breakfast.

She is growing according to the charts. It seems like just yesterday this pic was taken.

Good to Laugh

2009-01-10T20:03:00.003-05:00

Solomon has been doing copy work latey and was working from a story about the Wright Brothers when the name Orville came up. I told the kids that one of Daddy's Uncles was named Orville and there is also some famous popcorn called Orville Reddinbakker (sp). Solomon was thrust into one of his fits of laughter that go on and on...When he finally could speak in sentences he questioned "Oval Roverbaker"? Then more fits of laughter. We've been laughing over it for days.