Pearls of Widsom

Here are a few tid bits of a book that I'm reading from Michael & Debi Pearl that I thought I'd share.

* The feelings of a child are just as important and sacred as those of an adult. Always treat your child with respect. Never ridicule, mock or laugh at your child's ideas, creation or ambitions. The trust you desire to have when they are older must be established and maintained when they are young.

* Without that mutual respect and honor, further discipline only angers and embitters the child.

* Parent, if you are having problems with your children, just know that you are not alone. They are also having problems with their parents. On party is going to have to adjust in order to help the other. Since you are reading this book, and not the child, and since you are the more experienced of the two, and since God didn't say, "Children, train up your parents," the responsibility is completely on you.

* If the child is rooted in bitterness, you have a healing and restoration ministry ahead of you. Your heart and life must be fully surrendered to God or you are wasting your time.

*You can't lead your child closer to God than you are yourself.

Little Rewards

Been folding laundry like a mad woman. After all were in bed last night I sat down with 10 loads to fold and treated myself to the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice. A little reward to make a tedious task better.

My Day

Woke Up
Supervised Kids painting project
Made Pancakes
Got grumpy kids moving and ready to go
Packed kids in truck
Found lice on youngest child
Called friend to confirm what I saw
Looking up pictures on internet
Confirmed what I saw
Costco for hair clippers & cake order
Friend's house for lice shampoo
Dropped off garage sale stuff to SIL
Treated kids (and self) to ice cream
Home
Kids bath
Cut hair
Made lunch (at 2 pm)
Wall-E
laundry, laundry, vacuum, laundry, laundry...

It's been a day. Of course it's a late night for Andy at school and I keep itching. I really hope it' the power of suggestion rather than lice. The glamorous life of a mom.

Busy Week

I've been playing with the kiddos at the pool, at the cottage, and paying for it with a mild sunburn. Luckily it was a light one and fading fast.

Tomorrow starts the neighborhood garage sale.

Someday I'll sleep again.

Day at the Zoo

Took the fam to the zoo this weekend with my brother and his fam. It was a lot of fun and the kids did really well. It rained on and off part of the time we were there, sometimes while the rain was shining. It was a little cold... but it was fun. Here's a peek at the day.

Looking for Inspiration

It's so easy to get in the rut of cooking/eating what you know. I'm looking for inspiration. What do you love to eat?

Sweet Smile

My in-laws took my kids to their cottage yesterday to stay overnight. Huge treat for the kids, and us! Andy and I got to go out for dinner (brief date thanks to school running late). It's been a long time since we've had time to ourselves. Forgot what it was like.

On the way back this morning, little man fell asleep in the car, woke up when I took him out, and promptly fell back asleep on the couch. I looked over a minute ago to find him smiling in his sleep. Must be a good dream.

I rarely get to enjoy this peaceful side of my boys anymore, usually just in constant motion. Thanks God for this little reminder of how precious this time is.

Happy Birthday Baby

I just wanted to take a moment wish my husband a happy birthday. For his birthday he's getting up before the crack of dawn to head to school and run 5 miles. It's one of the last hurdles in the police academy PT program. Happy birthday to you.

He's worked so hard and come so far... I can't believe there is just a little over 3 weeks left in the program. With working out and the school's program he's lost 5" off his waist in the last year. Realistically, we both know that won't all stay off, but he's looking pretty buff about now.

Andy's worked hard, studied hard, and made a lot of sacrifices. He's gone from barely making it to acing the last couple of tests. Wish my boys could understand the depth of what he's doing. It's a great role model for them.

It's been a saga and struggle, and at times I've been frustrated with the process. But it's getting easier to see God working in it all.

So happy birthday to the love my life. It's been 9 1/2 years and I'm happier now that I was then. I'm more in love with him now than I was then. He's definitely improving with age.

WAR Party

I was a bit of a tease last week with my WAR party comment and then go busy and didn't update. No I did not lead a group to pillage the next town over. Waht I did was host a party for Women At Risk, Intl. I don't host ANY kind of at home parties, but for this group, I made an exception to that standard.

It's an incredible organization that I've come to know about that is doing some amazing work around the world. They work to help rescue women who are trafficked, oppressed, abused, or help those who are at risk. But they don't stop there. They help these women learn a trade (jewelry making, sewing, baking, etc) so they can not only be safe, but can support themselves/their family with a marketable and honorable job.

I had a party featuring their jewelry (mostly from Thailand) for sale and also to help educate other women about the risks around them and around the world. There is SO MUCH that I was not aware of that was happening in our own back yard. I'm pretty naive to so much of the risk and oppression that is out there. And this is just the start of me finding ways to help other women around the world.

I'll leave you with a few pictures from the night while I lounge around in my orange pajama pants that I bought (with a fun matching shoulder bag/tote) at the party. Talk about feel good shopping. If you aren't familiar with the organization, I highly recommend them.

What's a party without food. Here's the black raspberry cobbler I made.

Along with the grilled pineapple and pineapple cream cheese dip.

My house was covered with beautiful, exotic, creative masterpieces.

I did laps between the kitchen, dining room and living room.

So hard to decide. Great night with friends and family. If you are interested, I'll be having another party hopefully in September.

You know you need to go grocery shopping when...

...you serve your kids ramen for lunch and the only thing you can find all the ingredients to make is tuna noodle skillet. We were out of everything!

So I restocked tonight and hit some great deals. Let me share for a moment because I'm so excited...

• 5 boxes of cereal, box of pop tarts (haven't bought those in YEARS), and a backpack for $7.80
• Pantene shampoo, conditioner, 2 hairsprays, Rubbermaid water bottle, sand bucket/shovel for $6.35

Can I just say I rocked the sales and coupons tonight. Then I bought a compact flourescent lightbulb for $10 and it took the wind out of my sail. For a light bulb? Seriously? They claim to last 8-9 years. We are starting to replace at under 2 years. The rest better last a bit longer.

Excited about my WAR party tomorrow night. I'll share more later.

Catching Up

So it's been a while since I've posted any pictures. Here are a few recent pictures that make me smile and/or laugh.

Berry picking ended up being wildflower picking as well. They picked some for themselves and some for the neighbor girl as well.

My little berry fiend. This could be the answer to "where did all those berries go that I just picked?" You don't want to see what the shirt looked like.

This just makes me laugh.

Fishing with cousins on the 4th of July

Kayaking with Dad and picking flowers for Mom

Trying to keep this boy alive. After several "scares" I was all about precautions in the lake. If I had an inflatable ring I probably would have put that on him too. The kid has no fear.

Little bit tired after a long day in the water and fireworks.

Both boys completely passed out on the way home from the cottage.

On a Beautiful Day

On a beautiful day like this I should be outside enjoying it. Reality is that I feel miserable and have hardly left the couch and my bed today. I hardly slept all last night - think I have bronchitis setting in and coughed all night long.

So today, I missed out on gorgeous weather and a day with my family. I did get caught up on a TV series I haven't seen because of cutting back our satellite package. Oh well. At least it's the weekend and my husband was home to take the kiddos. If I didn't feel so crummy it would almost be a vacation.

Coughing

I'm so tired of this dry cough. Hardly slept last night and I'm not looking forward to tonight.

I had a reason for being so tired today... still it was a good day, but man, somethings even coffee can't help. Better get to bed and start the coughing and tossing and turning.

Things I've Been Contemplating

I've been mulling through some things lately, trying to take it all in, process, evaluate it's impact and truth. Why is it that life is hard? Why do things end up so complex? Is this what life is meant to be?

Nope, this isn't what God intended. He told Adam and Eve they had freedom, with one exception. They couldn't enjoy the majority, but desired what they couldn't have. The rest is history from there. I do the same thing. I have freedom to enjoy so much in life, but what do I do? I cling to what I don't have and all that I want. I miss out on all the good around me for the sake of something I think I want.

Isnt' that what mistakes and sin cost us? A lack of contentment, robbing us of joy and hope. Making life more complicated.

God offers us salvation pure and simple... Jesus took my penalty, as a free gift of grace, I can accept Him in faith as my Savior. I am forgiven, loved, adopted and set free. I'm given strength, hope, joy, and the opportunity to share these things.

But where does it get complicated? When I start replacing the nature of the gift and thinking I somehow need to "earn" love. If I'm good enough, do the right things, act just right, etc... If grace was earned it would no longer be grace (Romans 11:6). If I could earn it, then Jesus' sacrifice wasn't needed. God made it simple - believe and receive (Romans 10:9-13). Humanity complicates it and lives life thinking that if there is enough good to out weigh the bad, that God will accept me. The complication is really a lie in disguise. I'll never be good enough. It's a losing battle.

My relationships are complicated when I attempt to "get something" out of them, make sure it's reciprical enough, keep score. That isn't what was intended. Comfort and ease comes when there is commitment. Sin and selfishness complicates.

So what have I learned? I need to stop making things so complicated. God never meant it to be so. Besides, there are enough people in this world that are going to make things complicated for me, I really don't need to add to it.

Freedom in simplicity. Something I'm struggling to learn this summer.

Things I'm Enjoying

Focusing on the enjoyable things in my life right now.

• Huge neck hugs from a 2-year-old
• My gardens are growing
• Fresh strawberries and blackberries
• A quiet moment - everyone is sleeping
  
• Listening to Sinatra, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, etc
• Deepening faith
• Great friends and family
• Someone at the insurance company who was helpful
• Checking things off the to-do list
• Husband washed dishes tonight
• Cooler weather at the greenhouse
• Cuddling with my boys watching movies on rainy days
• Strawberry pie
• The sunshine (I know it will come back)
• Frugal Family Feasts
• Sleeping in a little bit
• The smell of my favorite candle
• Chris Tomlin
• My husband is 2/3 the way through school
  

I Got Nuttin'

So I wish there was something interesting to write. I've got stuff, but not the time, energy or brain cells at this point. Think I used the last of the brain cells about an hour ago.

It's cooler this week. A refreshing change from last week's mid-90s. This is Michigan. Going from 80 to 95 is a big deal. Acclimation would be nice. The overcast skies and mild temperatures made it easy to stay inside and get a few things accomplished and dig out of the junk yard that my house has become. THe sad part is that there is a lot more to go.

Ryan's skin hit eczema overload. Last week he must have had a mild peanut contact and ended up with hives all over. THink it might have been on the shopping cart... He was fine, but out came the benydryl. Then all the swimming (chemicals, prolonged water exposure, life jacket friction) left the poor kid's skin almost raw. So a few days away from the water will be a good thing for him.

Hope you are all doing well. Will check in when the brain cells return.

When News Was News

I'm becoming increasingly frustrated with American "news" casts. If it isn't sensationalized, projected, anticipated, or scooped -- it ends up being fluff. I foolishly turned on the news tonight, expecting to hear about political developments, war updates, Iran's election, world headlines and maybe a bit of sports and weather.

What did I get?

The first 10 minutes devoted to the "highlights" of Michael Jackson's life and career. The media that recently was villanizing him are now praising his achievements. Yes, he's a great performer with many contributions to modern music and entertainment. But really - first 10 minutes???

I recently sent an email to a local station telling them that I'm done watching. I'll no longer partake of their hype and hysteria. No more Geha-cking for me.

Think our media outlets need to take another look about what is really important. Thousands of soldiers have their lives on the line. Freedom is being fought for in the streets of Iran. People are being trafficked, oppressed, and tortured around the world. There are people standing up for what is right, regardless of the cost to themselves. There are millions of people out of work. Not to mention a heat wave sweeping the nation.

Father's Day

It was an amazing day. Great morning at church, afternoon/evening at the cottage with family, sunshine, great food (minus the desserts I forgot to bring that I spent hours making...), and well behaved kids.

Sounds close to perfection doesn't it.

Wish I had time and energy to tell you all about it. I learned some enlightening things today and want to share, but need to mull them around and process a bit more. I'm really being challenged to grow in my faith right now. It's so much more than tradition, or believing things others have told me. It's about digging in deep and finding out for myself what God shared in the Bible. More to come on that one...

It's Father's Day. Celebrated the awesome father that my kids have and my father-in-law as well. This year though, there was a bit of a sadness in it all, missing my dad. He's been gone quite a few years now. Most Father's Days and holidays aren't that hard for me anymore - but for some reason this one was.

Maybe it's been being around my friend's dad lately. He reminds me so much of my own - his manorisms, easy demeanor, driving around on his lawnmower or tractor, and always shooting the breeze with someone.

For whatever reason it is, I'm missing my dad tonight, wishing my boys had gotten to know him. My dad would have loved them, and they would have given it right back to him.

I've been trying to share a bit about their Grandpa with them lately. I need to do a better job of that. Maybe we'll pull out a few pictures tomorrow - oops, make that later today.

Happy Father's Day (belated) to you all. May you know the love of God - the ultimate Father and role model to us all.

My World in 2 Words...

Potty Training...


Need I say more?

Trouble In Kidland

Okay, maybe you can help me. I cannot get my 5-year-old to stop picking at his misquito bites, scabs, leg wounds, etc. It's worst at bed/naptime or when he's bored. Small bites have become these large wounds that never heal because he keeps picking at them. I try to keep them covered with bandaids, but he pulls those off to "check" his owie. I've tried rewards for not picking, punishments for picking, detailed explanations of health risks, pleading, distracting, etc.

Some are almost to the point of scarring. I'm all out of ideas. Any suggestions?

Day @ the Dentist

So I listened to advice and made an appointment with the dentist and as thought - it is TMJ. My jaw has always sounded like rice krispies (snap, crackle & pop) but it's finally hit the pain point. So what is a girl to do? Lots of ibuprofen to ease the inflamation/pain, eating soft foods (ice cream qualifies right?), and a bite splint.

I tried taking the cheap route and bought a football mouth guard for $2, but that isn't a good long-term solution. The dentist was very gracious knowing our situation - didn't charge me for the emergency visit, gave me a discount on the splint, and I can choose how much we set the payment plan up for. He also gives you a high-5 every time you are done. Little odd at first, but I'm getting use to it. Ryan thought it was cool though.

Man there are some advantages to small town life. Real people who know each other and try to make things easier... I hear he also has killer sweet corn in the summer.

You know it's small town life when the same man that sells you sweet corn also fixes your teeth.

Welcome to Monday

It was a long but good weekend. One of my former Junior High girls (church youth group) Margie, got married this weekend. She really was a beautiful bride.

I helped with the flowers and decorating. She picked out faux flowers so at least we could make them all ahead of time.


The reception was a lot of fun. My boys were crazy on the dance floor. When I get pics from my friends, I'll put them up. It was a lots of laughs. My oldest has a crush on Margie and had to be where he could see her at all times. But when it came to the dollar dance, he was SUPER shy and would hardly dance with her. He asked if Margie had to get married... Sorry buddy, Barry already stole her heart.

Jaws

For the last 3 or 4 days the joint/hinge of my jaw has really bugged me. I've had issues chewing hard things and my ear has hurt. I don't know if it's the jaw causing problems with the ear or the ear causing problems with the jaw? Any clues on this one?

My Fireman

My 5-year-old needed to relieve himself while we were outside eating dinner. There is no greater joy in this kid's world that to pee outside. His pants are around his ankles and all I can see are the whitest buns on the face of the earth and hear "reeeererer... fire fighter on the scene... fire fighter... fire's out." ROFL. At least we live in the woods.

So Glad It's Done

One of those days that you celebrate when it's over. Bring on tomorrow with a new start and kids who have slept and are no long fussy and horrible to each other, and a mom who's not been worn down.

TGIF for so many reasons.

P.S. I just looked at the clock and realized it's tomorrow already. I'd better go to bed before that last part of the problem repeats.

Selfishness

Sometimes it's hard not to be selfish. It's been a long month, and I'm a bit tired. Correction, lots tired. All the time. I'm having a hard time not being selfish with my time when I get it.

My oldest has been down with a fever for a couple of days. Correction, down yesterday. Today, sick, upright, & fussy. Joy. Top that off, think son #2 is coming down with it. I hope not. We'll see what morning brings.

So today, I was excited about nap time. They both DESPERATELY needed, and so did I. And you know what that means - no one slept. So we tried a movie rest time. Ha. That meant movie mess with each other and get on each other's nerves time. Somewhere along the line I fell asleep on the couch. Dangerous I know. Didn't last long. That's when the loud singing, jumping on me, tapping my face to ask me a question about the movie he's seen a dozen times and knows the answer to, fighting, and mischief began.

God bless my husband who came home from study group and let me sleep for 1/2 hour. Better now. I think.

Good news is that my gardens are in (except for a few more seeds). Can't wait to post pictures and even more so, can't wait to eat the fresh goodness coming out of it. Grow fast my food. I'm hungry!!

Marathon

It feels like I've run a marathon this week. The sad part is that the week is only part over. Better rehydrate, stretch, and get ready for the next part.

At Just The Right Time

Ever have a conversation, read a story, hear a song, or listen to something that totally fits your need at the moment? One that really pegs you right where you are at - at that particular moment? It's one of those times that you say "that's just what I needed."

I had one of those days. I have to say that as we headed to church this morning (after an uneventful/easy prep time) I sipped on my coffee thinking about how tired I was and how many things I needed to accomplish. After enjoying the singing/worship time I settled in to hear a good message. It was good, as usual. But I battled tired eyes. If I could listen with my eyes closed, the fight wasn't so bad, but then I feared falling asleep. So the battle went on. Heard good things despite of myself.

I grabbed a cup of coffee, guzzled it down and headed into Bible study. Great, hubby picked the front row. What's up with that? Better not have sleepy eyes now. Pastor picks people to read verses for the group and goes down - you guessed it - the front row. Thanks Andy for picking the front row.

What I didn't expect and wasn't prepared for, were the words I needed to hear, the ones that challenged my complaints, provided answers, and gave so many reasons to be thankful.

It's been a rough last week breaking into the new routine of working lots, keeping up with kids, and Andy in school. I was worn and raw. Everything seemed hard and like too much work. I started a million things, and few were getting done. I found myself resenting the process "I" was having to go through, what "I" was losing out on, what "I" wanted that "I" wasn't getting...

There's that troublesome "I" again. "I" realized what a gift it is that I have 3 part-time jobs/projects. So many in MI don't have any job. "I" saw God providing for our needs through jobs, state health care for my kids, loan checks coming through, and so many people generously helping us with childcare/encouragement etc. "I" saw all the people that we were meeting, all the opportunities to form new relationships and share with them what God is doing in our lives. "I" saw that "I" was the problem -- not our situation. "I" can't do this on my own, and no one is asking me to. God has blessed me with so many willing to help and share this journey. God has promised that I'll never be alone, and He won't give me more than I can bear in His strength.

After church we splurged on Chinese for lunch with friends. It was a breathe of fresh air to do something fun, to connect with others. After an un-anticipated afternoon nap I was surprised with a knock at the door with Teresa standing on the other side. After prompting to stay for dinner - she agreed and we chatted in between kid interruptions, ate a great steak/mashed potato/beans/salad dinner. Kids played, discovered snakes, and before we knew it, it was 8:30. Had no idea where the evening had gone.

So now it's 2 AM and I'm still typing. The nap always does this too me. However, it's amazing how productive one can be in the silence of the night.

So here's to a new week, filled with potential and possibilities... and more importantly, purpose.

Search Me

This song from Jonah 33 has been making me think, digging deep...



SEARCH ME, KNOW ME
Search me, know me
Try me and see
Every worthless affection hidden in me
All I'm asking for is that You'd cleanse me, Lord

Create in me a heart that's clean
Conquer the power of secret shame
Come wash away the guilty stain of all my sin

Clothe me in robes of righteousness
Cover my nakedness with grace
All of my life before You now I humbly bring

An Open Letter to Retail Planners

I live in Michigan. If you aren't familiar with the climate, it is a bit unpredictable until the end of May. They are predicting frost still this week. But warmer days are still ahead. We get little glimpses of it even now. In preparation of the warmer days, I've started my quest to find proper footwear for my boys for the climates, places, and amount of dirt they will meet this summer.

For crying out loud - where the heck are all the sandals!!!!

Most stores are almost out of their summer sandals. What is left is either incredibly ugly, poorly made, or not in my boys size. Really? Summer hasn't even started. What's next? Am I going to have to push through the snow pants to find the few remaining summer items in June?

Yes, providing items as you head into a season is important. But kids change sizes frequently, often in mid season. Would be nice if there was something there to purchase.

Also, the sandal thing is an issue every year. I start looking for them earlier each year. Since I keep hearing that I'm not the only mom with this problem - maybe your retail outlets should consider stocking more.

I'm not a retail specialist, but maybe a view of the real world can help you better plan.

Running Just As Fast As We Can

Some days I feel like a gerbil on a wheel, running as fast as I can, and just not getting anywhere. This weekend isn't one of those. I've gotten LOTS accomplished and that feels good. Still doesn't look like a dent in the to-do list, but not thinking of it that way.

I did have my first bout with anxiety today in a long time. It was rather odd. Nothing major, just the familiar twinges and knots. Will keep an eye open on that.Yet it reminds me how long it has been that I haven't really had to think about that anymore.

I send you off with a "Happy Mother's Day" greeting. I am personally thankful for the mother who gave me life and the women who have mentored me and helped me develop as a mother myself.

UUGGGHHH!

Just realized a freelance project I've worked on and struggled with for awhile were all saved wrong! I now have 600+ images that I have to convert to a new format. Yuck.

Yes is the same project that caused my need to upgrade with Adobe and all the customer service issues with that. So much for this project being profitable. Still dollars coming in, but my hourly rate is going down the toilet.

So, I'm throwing the towel in and blogging. But I'm frustrated enough that I can't think of anything fun to write... so goodnight.

***************************
Next Day:
Found out the files are still usable and I don't have to redo 600+ images. YEAH! Good day.

Perspective

This was a much needed weekend to get my mind in order and get perspective about life. Why is the "woe is me" attitude so easy to slip into. Last week I started to get really overwhelmed and even a bit frustrated with life. I was working 3 part-time jobs + being a mom, doing church stuff, and dealing with sick kids. Andy was stressed out from the start of school and was home very little.

I was worried about Andy coping with the first week of the academy, that I guess I didn't stop to think what it would mean for me. I didn't do so well... until...

I worked at the greenhouse this weekend and REALLY enjoyed myself (other than my aching legs from standing on concrete that long). I stayed out late Saturday night chatting with a new friend and an old friend. It's amazing what shared experience means. I'm not the only one out there periodically pulling the temporary single mom thing. It's hard to adapt to, but realize, that it's only temporary. For so many others, this is there everyday reality with no end in sight.

Then I went to church. I sat there and soaked in truth. The songs, comments, message could have been specifically designed for me (amazing how God does that). I'm coming out refreshed, thankful that I have been able to pick up so many part-time jobs. There is endless possibilities to come from meeting new people along the way. I'm praying God will use me.

I've determine to spend less time thinking about the inconveniences, the imensity of the jobs, and fatigue. I'm gonna eat this elephant one bite at a time. I'm tired of trying to swallow the whole thing and choking.

Happy Monday and prayers/wishes for a productive week ahead.

Spring Firsts

I know it is spring because the garage sales signs are popping up EVERYWHERE. I'm an addict, and I'm willing to admit it.

Met up with a friend and spent most of the day pouring through other people's junk, or my undiscovered treasures. Was incredibly impressed with a college age girl minding the family sale. All the proceeds were going towards her service trip to Africa. They were going to pass out solar powered MP3 players with translations on it along with AIDS education. Was more than glad to spend my money there. Cute new shoes for me, stuffed cheetah for Ryan, sweater for Andy, and vital information getting into the ears of people who need it. Bonus!

Unfortunately I think I also got wind burn/cloud burn. If you aren't familiar with cloud burn, that's what I refer to when I get a sunburn through the clouds. Yes it happens when you are as fair skinned as I. Think today must have been a combination. My boys have a bit of the rosy cheeks going on too.

Here's to many happy trails on the garage sale circuit.

Mary, Mary Quite Contrary

"Mary, Mary, quite contrary - how does your garden grow?"

Well, my name isn't Mary, I'm often contrary, and last year my gardens were a flop! I take that back, my veggie garden was a flop, my flowers and herbs were okay. This year, we made the time to make some raised beds to try to make the gardens work this year.

My friend Kuckie got me started with the book Lasagna Gardening this winter. No, I'm not gonna grow pasta, etc. The book is about an organic layering method, no tilling, that leads to richer soil and less weeds. Let me tell you, I'm all about less work.

Trying to cut costs we tried to make this project as simple and recycled as possible. We still had the wood for the boxes left in the yard from other projects/housebuilding. I had months of newspapers set aside to recycle. I soaked them and laid them down for weed barrier. Then came my "organic" layers.

We live in the woods, so leaves were no problem. We've been burning brush for a year & heat our house with wood, so I had lots of ashes. Wood chips from having stumps ground down last year were pretty decompose already, so in they went too. Dug out piles of sand from run off problems last spring too. So we actually only bought a bale of peat (used far less than she called for), some garden lime (to go with the leaves), and rich top soil. Really needed more soil, but the budget is done and so are we.

We built a little box for Ryan to have his own garden. He's very excited. Ty could care less about the garden, but desperately wants to dig in the dirt. To keep him from digging up our gardens, we made him his own dirt box. Sand isn't nearly good enough. You can't get dirty enough in sand. We may regret this addition, but it sure keeps the boy busy. I'm thinking time is worth the mess.

I am however gonna start hosing the kid down and build a cloths line to dry off all the dirty messes. Can I just say mud puddles? The boy loves mud and water. Need I say more?The start of my seeds. They are now HUGE and it's too soon to plant them.

Ryan's garden

Imagine rows of lettuce, spinach, beans and mounds of zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, carrots, nasturtium, tomatoes, cucumbers, marigolds, herbs, & more growing here!!

My resident dirt balls.

Adventures in Role Swaps

So, yesterday marked the beginning of a new adventure for us. Andy started the police academy. Hardly seems possible that it is here after MONTHS of planning, working, and applying. He came home one whipped guy. He said that PT was really rough. Three people were puking, some just stopped when they couldn't go any longer. He was just proud that he NEVER got yelled at during training. Guess that was rare for the setting. Proud that he made it and is still in one piece.

With the academy, he won't be working for 4+ months. So that's where the role swapping comes in. I've been trying to dig up freelance work and have a bunch of stuff breaking at the same time (way it always goes). That is in addition to the part-time web job I have weekly scheduled. And today I start with training at a local greenhouse. My friend's family runs it. Really nice place. Find out more later today. Now I just have to keep from spending my paychecks there.

Really trying to avoid childcare to keep costs down. But a few hours away at the greenhouse might be a nice break from home life. I know have a better understanding about how much the weight of bringing home the sole income can overwhelm someone. Especially in a commissioned salary structure. Makes me appreciate Andy's role all these years.

Here are a few shots from Andy's surprise going away party at work. Nice that it was actually a surprise. All the guys pitched in and bought him a pre-paid cell phone as a going away gift.

Completely caught off guard. I love it. Thanks for the phone guys!

Every future police officer needs donuts right?

The really yummy cake.

Since I was going out for the evening - I let the boys eat as much frosting as they wanted. Was nice to say "yes" for a change.

Women At Risk

I'm not one to jump on the bandwagon and endorse every cause that comes my way. I'd rather carefully select a few issues/organizations to champion and throw myself into.

I'm just becoming familiar with a great organization that I would encourage you to all take a look at... Women At Risk, International. My friend's mom works with this organization and I've heard "about it" from my friend for a while now. But today I got to hear first hand about their mission to fight the sexual oppression and trafficking of women/children around the world. There is SO MUCH that I didn't know. Why isn't this all over the news?

These fine people have a well rounded approach to helping those who have been or are at risk of human trafficking, oppressed, and silenced around the world. Not only are they saving women out of the most horrible circumstances, they are also empowering them through education, vocational training, and counsel - and finding ways to prevent/education/empower those at risk.

Take a look. There are ways to make a difference in the fight against this modern version of slavery.

An Open Letter to Adobe

Dear Customer Service @ Adobe.com...

Please let me take a moment and express how incredibly frustrating your system is for a normal person to use. Let me rephrase that - I work on websites, I'm pretty familiar with how to use it. If It doesn't work for me... pity the common user. Leaving me to regret the decision - I opted to download a copy of your new software several days ago.

* Yes, I have struggled for SEVERAL DAYS to download a program.
* Yes, I have contact Customer Service (insert snide laugh here) several times for help and receive half-hearted help, without bothering to look into what the heck is going on beyond try a Internet Explorer instead of Firefox, click this button. I actual had to ask "So in several hours after the program doesn't download, and I find that this doesn't fix the problem - what should I do?" and get the response "well, you'll just have to call again..." Does she not realize that this was already my third contact?
* Yes, I spent hours looking through online FAQ and getting bounced ALL over your fricken website to find how to even send a message.
* Yes, I am frustrated. I want my money back or a real disc from which to put your fricken program on my computer. I'd like to send you a bill for my time as well...

I'm sure that this letter will be once again be met with an automated response in which you tell me that my case is closed because you've helped "rectify" the situation.

Sincerely,
Disgruntled User

p.s. Please pass along my apologies to the Indian woman whom I hung up on my third contact. I'm sure it was her first day based on the time it took her to come up with her "remedies" for my problems at hand. My frustration must have been intimidating to her so that she forgot to let me speak and kept talking over me with the script in front of her, which was difficult to hear anyways with the 5+ other men speaking to other disgruntled users in the background.

New Blog

I've been inspired by other foodie sites to make my own food blog. I use to collaborate on a group recipe site that has been removed - so I'm motivated to make my own happen. If you are interested in following my food journeys, join me at Frugal Feasts.

Workin' Weekend

It was a beautiful weekend in Michigan. Warm weather (yeah for 70s), a rented skid steer loader, digging out tree stumps, getting rid of brush and yard junk, building raised garden beds, mulching, getting dirty, playing in the water, hanging out with jr high/sr high students, church, time with really dirty/tired boys, and SORE muscles.

Things are looking good, but lots more to do still. That's the way it always goes isn't it??? I'll post some pictures soon. Show off, I know...

It was a really nice weekend. Now, back to the inside of our house and the mess that it has become. Laundry day here I come. The excitement never ends around here.

Happy Monday ya'll.

Better Days

The sun is shining, it's warming up, my boys are in a good mood, and our dinner guests had to cancel for tonight. That means a good day with a lot less to get done.

No pity party today so I thought I'd share my favorite new salad concoction... feels like summer. Add chicken if you want a meal.

Strawberry Salad

3/4 c Almonds, chopped
1 T Sugar
1 lb Romaine, rinsed and torn
1 c Strawberries, sliced or chunked
1 c Chow Mein noodles
1/2 c Celery, finely chopped

DRESSING
1 T Toasted sesame seeds
1 T Poppy seeds
1/2 c White Sugar
2 t Minced onion
1/4 t Paprika
1 c White wine vinegar
1 t Cinnamon
2/3 c Canola oil
1 t Sesame oil

In a medium saucepan,cook and stir almonds until lightly toasted, add sugar and still constantly until candied. Spread on a plate to cool. Break up nuts when cooled.

In a large bowl, combine lettuce, almonds, strawberries, noodles, and celery.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, sugar, onion, paprika, vinegars, and oils. (makes enough for two salads - extra can be stored for another salad). Toss with salad just before serving.

Have Mercy

It was one of those days. The kind where you think that you might just jump out of your skin or lose your mind.

So here's my "Lord Have Mercy" list from the day...

• When my two year old falls on the floor and cries.


• When they are bickering about everything all day long.


• When their ears are turned off.


• When I start running out of discipline options - because I've used them all.


• When the day seems to creep by.


• When I get a cavity filled.


• When I spend money on my teeth that I'd rather spend on other things.


• When the truck's starter goes out.


• When I realize I complain too much.


• When I find myself frustrated and short, rather than teaching/instructing.


• When there isn't enough time to get it all done.


• When plans get canceled.


• When I worry more about what people think than what is important.


• When I stress about money when God ALWAYS provides.


• When I forget Your goodness, kindness, provision, and mercy.

Good thing His mercies are new every morning. Lord have mercy - cuz I need it.

Stupidity

It's like 12:30 AM and I'm completely wide awake. Maybe I should lay off the coffee after 9 PM... I'm really gonna regret this is about 6 hours.

This is a crazy busy week - mostly my own fault, but that's how I work. I'm trying to hit the spring cleaning this week and recapture my house from the tornado that hit the inside the last week or two. Part of this is because we have neighbors/company coming over this week. They are acquaintance/new friends and this is our first time having them over. I've never been in their house, but Andy has and talks about how incredibly clean it is, well decorated, pristine, etc. No pressure right.

So skip the reality, we're cleaning to impress. Once they get to know us, they'll find the real us. Until then, I'd like the first date to be impressive. ;) It's a good motivator to get stuff done. Like I have blank walls with nothing on them and it has bugged me for a long time, but not enough to take the plunge and do something about it. So I'm printing off some great nature shots to frame and calling it good. Also, I'm buying a couple of plate racks to display platters on the cabinets (which works cuz they are big and I don't have a good place to put them anyway).

It's suppose to be a beautiful and warm weekend coming up and makes me REALLY excited because it's our spruce up the outside weekend - bring on 2 yards or mulch, 3 yards of soil, boulders, a rented skid steer. We're trying to take care of erosion issues that have developed, sprucing up a couple of things, and getting the garden site ready to go.

I've got BIG plans for the garden this year. I've been researching, reading, and scheming about organic veggies and saving lots of money. Here's hoping it isn't a flop like last year. And here's hoping that I don't hate myself in July when I'm sick of dealing with it ;)

I'm gonna go try to sleep now. Hopefully sleep will catch me if I lay still enough.

Tired

It's late. I should be in bed. I'm incredibly tired. I just can't seem to get up and go to bed. There is SO much to do and SO much on my mind, that getting up the gumption to do anything seems like a lot of work.

Mental stress.

That's what I'm chalking it up too. I think the stress of Andy leaving work (2 wks from tomorrow) is really wearing on me more than I thought. It's not that I'm worrying about it all the time, really more that it leaves me with a large work load and I'm not sure how to eat the elephant. Yes I know - one bite at time. I get rather impatient with that process.

Also, it doesn't help that my nephew and niece from IN are here for the week and trying to fit in as much fun as possible in that time. They are fun kids, and it has been a great time to spend several days with them. Plus there were promises of things to do with the kids before plans started getting turned upside down.

Need to stop and take a breath (and get some sleep) to charge up for the weekend. Good Friday dinner with my family tomorrow. My niece's first birthday party on Sat. And than Easter services (praise team, special music, & teach Sunday School) followed by Andy's family festivities.

In the midst of the busy days ahead, I just don't want to lose focus on what it really means. God was gracious, sending His one and only son - taking the punishment for MY sins. When Jesus Christ rose from the dead, He broke the power of sin and death, making a way for me to have a relationship with Him and eternity in heaven. Don't deserve it. Can't earn it. Can't begin to appreciate the full extent of the gift.

May I wish you all a Good Friday, and a GREAT Sunday. Happy Easter friends.

Things About Heaven

Don't know why I was pondering this last night, but I was thinking about a few things that will be absent in Heaven that made me happy. Funny enough, may of them started with P. So here is a bit of future focusing alliteration.

THINGS THAT WILL NOT BE PRESENT IN HEAVEN
- pretension
- periods
- pantyhose
- purses
- payments
- problems & predicaments
- parenting process (my work will finally be done!)
- party poopers
- poopy diapers
- pain
- & SIN!!! (doesn't start with "P" but I find it most exciting)

Just something to think about this week as we celebrate Good Friday & Great Sunday (Easter). The best is yet to come.

Coming soon, pictures of how the boys have decorated our slider for Palm Sunday, Good Friday & Easter. I love their imagination and inspiration. Plus it covers up some of the mess they've made on the glass. Gives me another week before I have to clean it up :)

Getting Seedy

It's not really planting time yet, but I can hardly wait for Spring to bring it's warmth in MI. I cracked open by gardening books this weekend and started planning. I know that this is an ambitious list, and my garden last summer was a total FLOP. Starting from scratch this spring/summer and going to things right. Last year we threw things together last moment with 900 things still left to do with a new house. Well there is still 742 things left to to on the house and I'm going to forget about them and focus on a beautiful and productive garden this summer. Even trying a few more from seeds rather than plants...maybe.

I'm hoping for a bountiful harvest of produce to help offset a tighter budget over the summer and fall.

Broccoli

Cucumber

Green Beans

Green Peppers

Jalapenos

Lettuce

Spinach

Tomatoes

Yellow Squash

Zucchini

Rosemary

Thyme

Basil (can hardly wait for fresh pesto)

Cilantro

Parsley

Oregano

How about you? Any plans for gardens?

Spring Break In Michigan

Yes, most of my friends have packed up their vehicles and are headed south for sun and fun. Yes, in true Michigan fashion - it's suppose to snow this weekend and early next week. It's like adding insult to injury for those of us not traveling. Should be use to it by now, just ticks me off...

But in the spirit of spring, I started purging today. My hit list included the never ending laundry pile and the boys rooms. We seriously have enough books to start a small library. It's one of my splurges. I stalk the garage sales, inexpensive books from school sales, gifts, and a couple of memberships to the Children's Book of the Month Club. We've got a lot.

My boys really enjoy their books, and we use them frequently. The issue is that with that many - they end up everywhere and then they want a particular book at bedtime and the chore becomes finding it. So I organized that today and headed off to hit their closets. I've been slowly weeding out clothing they are outgrowing and stashing them on the shelf to pack up. I cleansed their closets of the items and brought them to my room to pack up during nap time (the one that never happened today) only to find out that my hubby buried all the clothing totes in storage downstairs when he helped "clean up" downstairs. No complaining. He helped. Now I just need his help to unbury it all.

Much accomplished and it felt good.

Then I had a dentist appointment. It's been a little over a year. I'm one of those every 6 months on the dot kind of girls. But with moving, sickness, shorted funds - we waited. Bad news. I have a cavity to fill PLUS I need to get a crown on a tooth I had a root canal done on 6+ years ago. Definitely not in the budget. Dentist said the crown could probably wait 6 months and he would grind down the tooth a little to lessen impact and chance of cracking. GREAT. That sounds like fun.

It's been a day. Good night, sleep tight - I'm going to brush and floss now...

Update

So, we've hit crunch time. In just 4 short weeks my husband is starting at the police academy. This means he will be in class/training/etc 5-7 days a week and 12-16 hrs/day (at least that's what they said in the intro meeting). After orientation next week, we'll have a better clue as to what reality will look like.

I'm at the point where I need to stop thinking/talking about the situation and start praying more about it. The more I think, the more I try to plan, the more I start to worry, and the less I get done. I was doing really well about all of this, but lately it just seems to be piling up.

There is just far more to do than there are hours in the day. I erased a bunch of DVR stuff last night because I know I'm just not going to get to it... More important stuff than TV...
- getting boys to understand Mom's work time
- setting boundaries that are healthy and maintainable
- getting enough sleep to keep going
- find routine that works for working at home
- eating better, the more I stress, the more crappy I eat
- working out relationships and processes for freelance work
- wishing I was vacationing with everyone else next week
- finding cost effective b'day presents (942 of them in Apr)
- Menuing to cut down grocery costs
- Keeping perspective by time with God
- etc...

So what am I doing - instead of getting stuff done right now, I'm blogging while sitting in front of WWIII also known as my living room, covered with toys, the washing machine needing to be re-run cuz I forgot there was a load in there, kitchen half cleaned up (can't ever seem to get that all the way done), oh - and I'm still in my pj's and haven't showered yet. It's 2:30 PM.

I'm off to do more research about health insurance options. At least I have a cup of coffee to go with it.