Welch Life : Loving my hubby and Growing in Christ

Xander Charles!!

2011-06-09T09:35:00.000-07:00

Alexander Charles Welch is here!! He was born on Saturday May 21st, 2011 at 3:01am weighing in at 7lbs 4oz and 19 1/2 inches long.

We went in to the hospital on Friday expecting to be induced and for everything to go smoothly, but God once again wanted us to make sure we knew HE was in charge of that, too. The induction started at 3pm and after a few hours of not really feeling much in the way of contractions at all the pitocin was turned up, but after 11 hours I was still at a 5 and the contractions were right on top of each other with out much of a break for me to catch my breath. And so I decided that I was ready for the dreaded epidural. For those of you that don't know, I am NOT a needle person. They frighten me. I am petrified of them. And all for no reason at all. I have always had kind dr.'s and have never had a problem at all. So the thought of having an epidural to me, was more frightening than having a baby without pain meds. That's how irrational this fear is. The anesthesiologist was called and came in and cleaned off a spot on my back to place the needle was reaching for the needle, and then ... Voila! Xander was ready to make an appearance and within 10 minutes he was here and in our arms! He objected to his new surroundings immediately and cried the whole time he was being examined, weighed and measured. We had no doubt of his strong lungs right from the start.

His first days home were very bumpy and we can say in all fairness that he had his days and nights mixed up. He did lose weight at first and through much weighing and reweighing discovered that he was just not getting enough at each feeding, so we decided to supplement with formula that in true Welch style we have termed his Weight Gainer 2000. He loves it and everyone loves to help out by feeding him and taking part in his gaining weight and getting stronger. There were shouts of joy and much rejoicing when he gained 6.6 oz overnight and everyone had been a part of it. God is good!! I have always been a breastfeeding only gal, but it seems that God is using my sweet boy to destroy that ridiculous soapbox. Who knew?! For truly what is more important, having a healthy and happy little boy or letting him die on my stupid soapbox? When Who is that one that sustains him? God alone! And truthfully, I was formula fed and Voila! Hows that for your paradigm of hope? LOL. Wow.

He is almost 2 1/2 weeks old and has been loved since day one :) Nolen loves to hold him and talk to him and he dearly loves listening to Nolen's voice. Emma will take him and sit with him in her room and just tend to his every need, she is such a wonderful helper!! Mia has asked at every moment to hold him and take care of him. Ty loves to give him hugs and talk to him, but is nervous of too much holding, since he is so small and squirmy :) Nadia treats him like one of her stuffed animals and will hold him for hours, get diapers, throw them away BUT her specialty is picking the morning outfit. She loves being Xanders fashion consultant.

Well, all to say he has been a cute and snuggly joy to us all and we are so thankful to God for this little blessing!!

Trust . . .

2011-03-15T17:28:00.001-07:00

I just found this amazing poem, and it pretty much sums up what I have been thinking about lately... at least on an earthly level. If you're wondering where I am spiritually refer to Isaiah 50:4 :) because of-course God is GOOD and much bigger .

⁴The Lord GOD has given me

the tongue of those who are taught,

that I may know how to sustain with a word

him who is weary.

Morning by morning he awakens;

he awakens my ear

to hear as those who are taught.

Trust - a poem

Trust is a hard thing.

Trust is allowing someone else to do and be for you. Trust is giving away power and telling secrets and sharing things that you would never want anyone else to know.
Trust is using faith. Faith in another person's decisions, and choices, and knowledge.
Trust is when you know that the other person would do everything in their power for you if you needed them.
Trust is knowing that they will never let you down if they can help it.
Trust is not needing to speak, because the one you can rely on is there.

Trust is hard.

Trust requires being vulnerable.
Trust needs to be returned.
Trust cannot be fleeting.
Trust requires more than a passing glance.

Trust is hard.

Trust leans
Trust waits
Trust hopes

Trust is hard.

Trust is giving a piece of yourself to another knowing it will be safe
Trust is giving a piece of yourself to another not knowing if things will change

Trust is hard.

Sometimes, trusting means you will be disappointed and let down

Hearts and Mouths

2011-01-26T20:28:00.000-08:00

The Heart and the Mouth.

The connection between these can be no more obvious than with children. They are living proof that what you love is what you talk about and they know it. As adults we can go on and on about something and in the end deny completely that we even like something remotely. Now how is that? Simply we deceive ourselves.

Who or what do you talk about? Are you telling your friends how much you love your husband and children? Are you consumed with the Word of God? Are you stuck in a rut because all you can think to talk about is Christ and his grace to you? Or do all of your friends know your hubby's dirty little secrets? Do they wonder when the last time you read your Bible is? But are afraid to ask? What would you say? Do they know that your children have embarrassing medical problems, but not that your son got all A honor roll or recited all 10 commandment from memory in front of your family JUST LAST NIGHT?!

I only ask because we can't allow ourselves to be taught by the world how to speak. When Christ spoke to his people he proclaimed truth followed closely behind by grace. And not in a Queen Latifa in your face way. The world tells us to say it like it is, but even then with 'tude.

When your children spill their juice at the table this is the best time to show them how their people react. How to brush your teeth, small circles at the gum line. How to react to spilled juice, calmly with grace and wet wash cloths.

Are you surprised when your children yell at each other if a Lego masterpiece is broken? Have you ever wondered how they could mimic you so well?

Shepherding our children takes patience, grace and more patience mixed with wisdom and bathed in prayer and intense Bible reading. The shepherd knows not only what his sheep need to survive, but also what they like. To they have a favorite type of grass or do you stand over them and tap your foot if they do not eat that patch RIGHT THERE!! Are you willing to carry the lambs if they get tired or do you make them walk till their feet bleed?

I am amazed at how a calm reaction easily defuses a potential catastrophe. One of our children was having a pillow fight with some friends and her earring fell out. She was on the last few weeks of her starter earrings so the reaction started out at a high pitch. My husband looked at me with the, "watch what you do here." look and after a deep breath I said," Oh! That's fine. You can borrow a pair of mine tonight and tomorrow I will go to the store and find a new special pair for you." This peaked her interest, and instantly threw 25 gallons of water on that spark that could have taken out a small village! She was happy the rest of the way home and the next day had even forgotten about the promised *new* earrings all together (I seriously could not believe it). What a blessing to be able to calm a little one down with my peaceful voice and easy words!

God is so good to put our children in our homes where we can tenderly care for them from the womb to young adulthood. There are so many among us that despise even that grace. I heard to day that it can get as high as 1 in every 4 women commits an abortion. I am so happy to have my little ones safely around me instead of in another home where even the chance or survival is nil. Whay does this say about what is in their hearts?

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-17T20:56:00.000-08:00

Well there has been so much going on here and still more to happen, that I though this would be a great time to catch y'all up :)

We have officially had the last day of school for the year (yea!!) and it was filled with parties and cookies and presents and all sorts of festivities. Titus had his birthday party for Jesus where he decorated cupcakes and blew out unlit candles (he is 5 after all).

Mia spent her last day painting (she was thrilled) and decorating cookies and having a wonderful last day with all her friends.

Emma watched a movie and decorated cookies and had fun with her dear friends one last time :(

Nolen ate cookies and got to have his little sis sit in class with him for awhile, thus convincing her to skip pre-k through 4th grade to go straight into Mrs. DeJongs 5th grade class. The littlest 5th grader, as we like to call her. She has Nolen and all the other 10 and 11 year -old boys wrapped around her pinky finger.

Scott had a great day and came home unable to see through all the gift bags and stuffed with all the end of the year fare. He spent the rest of the day Christmas shopping and helping to get the food gathered together for our church Christmas celebration on Sunday.

I went to class parties, subbed in Scott's class the last hour of the day, finished up most of our Christmas shopping and wrapping and took Titus to the wedding rehearsal where he is the ring-bear.

Can't wait for tomorrow :)

A hard lesson learned

2010-11-09T15:20:00.000-08:00

This last month has been . . Lets's just say it's been eye-opening. I will back track.

Starting with the middle of September I have been sick. There have been a few days sprinkled in there of wellness, but few and far between.

And I have to say wellness with a loose translation, think Charlie Brown version of Much ado about Nothing and you will be close.

Moving on . . .

I have had 3 viruses and a bacterial sinus infection and now that I am recovered from those my body is the equivalent to Haiti in the aftermath. So now I am taking meds to recover some semblance of normalcy. Like being able to taste and smell, hear out of BOTH ears and not break out into a coughing fit at the drop of a hat. Oh, and I would love to stop "purring" as my husband calls it when I breathe. Yes, that would be nice.

Just so you don't quit reading and think this whole post is one big pity party I should probably move on (just remember this is the back track part).

I have had a lot of time to sip tea and think about what God is trying to get across to me, there has to be a point, right? I mean I'm not dead, Thus far and no farther. Like in Isaiah when The Assyrians destroyed, pillaged and plundered their way to Mt. Nob at the very edge of Isreal and God reminded them that they were merely an ax in his hand, but He wields the ax. All of this is just an ax in His hand and He is wielding it for a reason.

I realized that in the midst of the flurry of activity that is really my life I take a LOT for granted.

*Like all of my senses,

*that my husband will pick up the slack and stay out of the whirlwind when it's in motion, or get hurt.

*That doing is more important than time spent and

*that I have it all under control, all the hats are fitting and the plates are spinning beautifully

*Like sleep

Well I have realized that I was off. Way. Off.

I can now smell coffee and taste garlic. Have you ever realized how wonderful each taste and each smell are? I have relished each new pin prick that has come my way, THANKFULLY!

At one point I was so sick that Scott had to totally take over, Everything. And yes he was still working full time and coaching football. I am not the only one that can do my job. None of us are. It's a gift and I need to be thankful for it. He is an amazing husband and very patient with me and I need it. I need LOADS of patience.

It is a blessing to hug my children. Something I couldn't do for a couple days since I was so sick and contagious. At one point all I could do was sit on the couch and sip tea with them and listen since I couldn't talk at all. For days. So God taught me to listen and be thankful for them individually.

The hats fly off and the plates shatter, but that's good they are just a distraction when I should be thanking God for what I have and cherishing it while I do.

Sleep is just now rearing it's head in my life. I have been with out it for so long that I have been surprised by it's sneaking up on me. Today I woke up and said, "Scott! I didn't wake up in a coughing fit all night!" This was the first time in I don't know how long. I was so sleep deprived long before I was sick because I would take my time after everyone went to bed and finish everything up, getting me to bed way too late to be happy, healthy or productive the following day. God has brought me from square one, where I need even an hours sleep unhindered to a full night with a thankful heart.

The theme is thankfulness and it is what He calls us to be. Some of us are just more thickheaded than others and need to be given a harder taskmaster. Twice the bricks in 1/2 the time. Yowch.

Voila!

2010-10-14T20:27:00.001-07:00

And just like that Fall is creeping on the scene and summer is behind us. Nolen, Emma and Mia are deep in the trenches and loving school. Ty has started pre-school and spends most of his days forgetting that it really is school and tells me how much he loves his new friends. Nolen is almost done with football and Scott with his first official year of coaching is thinking about next year already. Emma and Mia have figured out a system that works for piano practice and are loving it. Our house is all a flutter as we talk about think about and pray about the *new* baby. Nadia keeps telling us how she can't wait to see the baby because "it's so tinsy and tincy". The leaves are indeed changing on our street.

And with them I am reminded that there is a season for it all and each has it's own beauty and pain as well. The chill of winter with this thrill of parking your 4X4 on an embankment to "save the plowed spaced for the older people". The new life of Spring with the stark stinging winds. The sweet drip of Watermelon juice off the chin of summer and the biting pain of the first sunburn of the season. And the initial frustration of a full closet of Fall with tank tops hugging fleeces and cords to the fun of watching Single Wing while wrapped in fleece.

Lately I have been watching The Biggest Loser. The participants have eaten themselves to a place where their bodies are about to give out. They are sick and dying. The trainers are pulling them out of their graves and they are still complaining. How can someone in so much pain (overworked knees, backs, hearts, lungs) rebel so much while they are being helped? Sin is ugly. And it twists the reality that is there to the reality that we see. "Why do I have to give it up? It's not hurting anyone, right?" Wrong. When you are Christian you have been bought by too high a price to allow anything to come between you and your Savior.

A friend of mine recently contracted a case of Mersa. It went undetected. It grew. It flourished. By the time she went to the doctor there were no medications that would help, no iv antibiotics that would even touch it it had to be cut out completely. As soon as it was gone it was gone completely, no sign of it remained and the healing process was moving along faster than all thought possible.

This should be our response to sin in our lives. Repent. Run the other direction. Thank the Surgeon and leave the hospital. Is there a case of Mersa in your life? Repent and Voila!

Homemade yogurt, in the crock pot

2010-10-02T13:43:00.000-07:00

I found this on www.passionatehomemaking.com and I am so going to try this :)

Edited on 10/5/09 to add: Since posting this I have also discovered that you can make raw yogurt on your counter top, without the use of a crock pot or yogurt maker. All you need is a starter and the super clear directions that come with it. Not only is it easier since you simply leave it on your counter top, but you also retain the benefits of the raw enzymes! You can find culture starters here.

I have tried other methods for making yogurt, but this is by far the easiest. I originally got this idea from Stephanie and use her basic recipe. Making your own yogurt is a frugal way to get some good probiotics into your family.

Here is the cost savings breakdown for us:

Before: we would buy organic plain yogurt from Trader Joe’s: $3/quart
Now: I make it out of our grass-fed raw milk from the farmer: $1.75/quart
Savings = $1.25/quart x 2/week = savings of $2.50/week = savings of $130/year

Trader Joe’s is the cheapest organic yogurt you can find. The health food store sells it for $4.50/quart. For me, it is definitely worth the savings to do the five minutes of total work involved in making yogurt in the crock pot.

Crock Pot Yogurt

Recipe notes: This recipe uses a 2 quart crock. In using a 4 or 4 1/2 quart crock I found the yogurt to have a bit of a "springy" texture. I was able to alleviate this by heating the milk an additional 15 minutes for a total of 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Turn your crock pot to low and pour in 1/2 gallon of milk.
Heat on low for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Once 2 hours and 30 minutes have elapsed turn your crock pot off and unplug it. Let the milk cool in the crock with the lid on for 3 hours.
After 3 hours remove 1-2 cups of the warmed milk and place in a bowl. To that add 1/2 cup of yogurt with live active cultures and mix very well.
Pour the yogurt-milk mixture back into the milk and whisk thoroughly.
Place the cover back on the crock and wrap the entire crock pot in a thick bath towel or two.
Let it culture overnight, 8-12 hours.
In the morning stir yogurt (if desired) and store in glass quart jars or a container of your choice.
For optimum texture, refrigerate for at least 8 hours before using.

Non-marking soul

2010-10-02T13:04:00.000-07:00

As I was helping Ty put his shoes on this morning I read the bottom of his shoe : Non marking sole. And I thought, " Wow, wouldn't it be horrible if we had the same type of label on us?" Let me explain...

When you weave in and out of your day and through the lines at the grocery store, latte stand and in and amongst your children and their friends what is the mark on them left by your soul? Do you leave the people you meet better than you found them, or is there no mark that you were there at all? Do you have a non marking soul? Or are you so filled with thankfulness that you leave a wave of smiles behind you? I went through a shy phase, worried that I would call someone by the wrong name that I never said a word to the children in my children's classes when I dropped mine off. Well, I decided that in the midst of my selfishness I had to stop. This is a golden opportunity to pour out the grace that has been poured into me. I want a marking soul. Now I throw out genuine "good to see you today"'s and hugs whenever I can. These children need to know they are a needed and wonderful part of the school around them.

The headmaster of their school greets every child that comes in with a "Good morning!" and he knows their names! My son did remind me that he does go home at night (good to know he doesn't think he lives at the school!). In the midst of changing and uncertain times for these children an adult that cares about them and wants them there can make a huge difference. Even the hug that you give your daughter's best friend can say more than you think. How about , "Good job making friends! She sure is a good choice!" Any extra amount of love poured in will yield great results.

We have great friends that my children have adopted at various stores that we frequent. A clerk at Costco that doesn't know the Lord will feel themselves pulled with a force unknown when a child freely speaking of their love of Jesus pours out an extra dose of love to them, completely unwarranted.

Even the full heart of your pastor after your children run up to him after the service to say, "thank you" and give him a big hug. It makes a big impact.

Call the people that help you by their names, they usually have name tags.

Be thankful, verbally.

Love your children's friends, especially if it's a friend well made. One that is a true friend to your child.

Pray for grace and for God to open up your eyes to opportunities every day for God to give you a marking soul.

Pray for a hurricane

2010-09-22T20:36:00.000-07:00

Time to get uncomfortable. There is nowhere in the entire Bible where God says to his people whom He created and loves dearly, that he wants us to me nice and comfy-cozy. Or most importantly that in that state we would EVER be serving Him as we ought. The last few months have been swimming with the theme BE UNCOMFORTABLE . Each morning of my life i wake up with a plan in my brain of how I want the day to go and just as quickly that plan is ruined. By either my own lack of foresight or the sinners I live with. The goal is to wake up saying , "Ok, God! What's on the agenda for today. Make me ready!" and then move forward with a song in my heart.

I have slowly (how long have I been a Christian!?!?) been choosing to be uncomfortable to put what I believe on my feet.

Do I love Jesus? OK love widows and orphans. Find them, seek them out before they seek me. Be perceptive.

Do I love Jesus? Submit lovingly, thoughtfully and intelligently to my husband whom I WANT to lead me and to make the TOUGH choices for my family. And be thankful when he gets uncomfortable and does it. Even with the coaches who think it's manly to refer to the wife I just want to get away from.

Do I love Jesus enough to fill my coveted spare time intentionally serving Him? Make a call rather than make a cup of coffee. Go to a Bible study where I am stretched and encouraged to grow rather than staying in my comfy clothes at home.

Every time I get uncomfortable I am rewarded and right afterwards I forget and am reluctant to do it again. The flesh is weak and the memory is weaker. We are called on again and again in the Old Testament to remember the good that God has done and to tell our children. God is faithful to hold us and sustain us even in the hurricane.

Pray for a hurricane. Sometimes we need it more than calm.

Commencement, Calling and Courage by Scott Welch

2010-06-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

Here is the amazing commencement address given for the 5 young men graduating from the River Academy in 2010 by my wonderful husband. Ponder and enjoy :)

Today I want to talk about words. Language is a funny thing. The English language started somewhere between Germany and Rome. It visited the land of the Anglo-Saxons and eventually made its way to the British Isles. It has seen its battles and has its wounds and scars. And though, like real life, the evolution of language never breaks the species barrier…it does evolve. One of the things that we have seen even during our lifetimes is how words lose and change their meaning. How about couple examples…Ladies, have you ever gotten a permanent? Where is it now? Have you ever seen a jumbo shrimp?

Words change.

Being somewhat of a language buff myself. I never like to see the old, good words disappear to make way for words like: Pwned, schooled, punked, wikied, googled. So today I would like to talk about 3 very important words that have lost their meaning. Three words that I believe need to be remembered, three words that I think need to be remembered specifically by men. On that note, we have five young men graduating today. This speech was written with that in mind. So…three words.

Commencement, Calling, and Courage:

1) Commencement – In the dictionary, Graduation and Commencement are Synonyms. Strangely enough, they mean the exact opposite of one another. Graduation means to complete a course of study and to be given a diploma. But commencement means to begin something. Literally, today is the beginning of the rest of your life. You have been told where to go and what to do for the last 18 years, though with increasing freedom and responsibility over the years. But now you can choose where to go and what to do with your life. Of course, being wise young men, you get direction from your parents, and the godly people in your life, but you are in charge of your own life now.

Which leads me to my next word…

2) Calling - Here is the question that too few men are ever asked. It is this question…What is going to be the guiding principle for the rest of your life? Will it be the search for the American Dream? Lots of money, a nice car, big screen TV. Or will you use this new beginning to plan how you are going to best impact the Kingdom of God? This world needs young men like you. Young men that have been educated well, raised well by their parents, have a good head on their shoulders, who care about the needs of others.

We need you guys to be the leaders of other men. We need more men who are more concerned about their relationship with God, than they are about how cute they look in girl pants. Men who will step up, man up, and live lives that advance the Kingdom in a mighty way. My encouragement to you is this: Use this day, this day of commencement, to plan how you can be leaders in the Kingdom of God in such a way the other men follow you. Whether you become a Doctor, Director of Human Affairs, Hydro-mechanic, Electrician, Teacher, or whatever else you do, you can, like each of your fathers have, use your calling to give honor to God and be a leader.

Everyone dies, No getting around that. And on that day everyone will look back on the days of their lives and ask…did I waste it? Men, choose today to live the sort of life that you will be able to, like Paul, say to Timothy say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” And then Dan, Connor, Andrew, Troy, and Nate, then, there is laid up for you, like there was for Paul, a crown of righteousness.

So now for our last word whose meaning has been lost…Courage.

3.Courage – We live safe lives in the 21^st Century. We are careful not to rock the boat. We are leery of pushing buttons. We are careful not to exhort one another or they might be offended. Men, We need to stop being safe. Being a Christian must be risky or it isn’t being a Christian. We need to be reckless with how we serve the body of Christ. Do not be fooled…A life truly lived for the glory of God will be a life of sacrifice and persecution and courage. The world needs men like you, but at the same time, the world never stands for men like you. Ask Jesus, “In this world you will have persecution, but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world. Paul was beaten, stoned, left for dead, chased, and ultimately killed for Christ. In the book of Acts, Stephen preached one of the greatest sermons ever preached and was stoned to death. And Jesus stood to receive him. That is a life of courage. I don’t expect that will happen to any of you in modern America. But live in such a way that no one would be surprised if it did. Live in such a way that, like Paul, you see your life as Christ and your death is gain. And that takes courage.

I want to finish with a few words to each of you as you are sent out into the world:

Dan, how it is possible that you are 6 feet tall and still the shortest in your class, I don’t understand. But, at least you’re taller than me, that probably worth something. You always play at about 110%. I love that about you. And you know what, Dan, you might not have won all the awards and scholarships, but I tell you this…you are honestly one of the hardest working young men I have ever met. And I mean that. You’ve succeeded at times when mortal men would have accepted failure. And you have lived up to the Aumell name. And that is a great accomplishment.

Troy, I never got a chance to play you in tennis, so we can just assume that I probably would have won. The fact that people say I look like Andre Agassi might have helped me. Since I have known you, you have always been wise beyond your years, except maybe the Pokémon stage of your life. You were always the quiet one. But videos have been leaked to prove that you are not always as reserved as you seem. Your parents have raised you to be a Godly young man, and I know you make them proud.

Nathan, my expert witness and pre-trial attorney. Being the youngest in the class, you had a lot to live up to. You have grown a lot over the last couple years, spiritually and physically, and you have brought something needed to your class. Your views on church got me thinking but your views on how many analogies to put in one paper…not so much. Don’t despise your own youth, you have plenty of time to get life all figured out. And when you get life all figured out, please tell the rest of us.

Andrew, I have gotten a lot out of our time playing rugby. Especially the black eye and the busted jaw. But on top of that, you are one of the most accomplished young men I know. You always bring your A Game … in more than just rugby, but no one ever knows because you are of the most humble young me I know. You came to my son’s football game to cheer him on. He will never forget that. But more than that…you have had that impact on tons of kids at The River Academy. You are a man among men and I hope the young men left at the high school were paying attention to your example.

Connor, A lot of girls are very sad today that you are graduating. Of course I am talking about the 3^rd grade girls at the River Academy. Your sense of humor has made this last year such a hoot. You are a leader and everyone knows it. You care about other people and make a point of making sure everyone is included. The first Walsh to graduate. I am sure your mom is out in the crowd crying right now. But they are happy tears. Cause she and your father have raised you well.

Class of 2010, Men. You boys are a breath of fresh air. I can’t tell you how proud I am of you guys. Congratulations.

home stretch!

2010-05-26T13:29:00.001-07:00

We are officially on the home stretch at the Welch house. School is almost up for the year and we are leaving for Florida right after that, so it is indeed upon us. Nolen has graduated to father's independent right hand man. He is big enough and strong enough to mow the lawn by himself without us lording over him and he has even procured a summer mowing job with our neighbor! He will be making money! For all of his favorite things like duct tape and air soft what-nots. Emma is growing up so fast that I am often wondering where my little girl went! She LOVES her people and will be your biggest ally, unless the dispute is within her family an then she is the peacemaker. She has spearheaded the campaign to free the girls room from the fetters of the bunk bed and has succeeded. The beds are separated and there is a sweet little desk between them and she is in heaven. Now to paint, tear up the carpet and paint the floor, and get new bedding, but that too will come with time. Mia is also in a state of bliss over the decimation of the bunk system and every night exclaims "I love my *new* bed!" Her bed actually never moved, it's just missing it's top. Too cute. She just finished researching river otters for a school report that she's writing up and giving to the grandma's and grandpa's for Grandparents Day. She loves school and all her class mates and the prospect of summer both excites and sadden's her intermittently. The prospect of a huge old slip and slid at grandma's in Florida does console her, though. Titus is finished with his first year of BSF and only has 2 more weeks left of bible study. He has matured sooo much over this year that I can't believe it. We have prayed this boy from Tasmanian devil to Knight in shining armor. He loves cars and especially car tracks and has perfected the art of their construction always dreaming of new ones. Now he's hoping to find one where the cars jump off a jump into a dinosaurs mouth. Anyone? He and I have had some great conversations about sin and death and how to help Nadia and protect her (she is definitely his test subject). Nadia is growing into a little lady and I know when we go down to Florida she will keep everyone in stitches with her silly sayings and dances. If we have just the right hoppin' music in the car she begins to swing her bent arms back and forth and dance with a BIG smile on her face. She and Ty have had some hilarious conversations in the back seat. I need to post some, I'll keep my ears open. Her siblings are wrapped securely around her little pinky finger and believe it or not, ESPECIALLY Nolen! When he comes home she runs to him shouting, "Nolie! You'z home!" and he searches her out for those sweet little 2 year old hugs.

With the lure of Florida in the distance we are pushing on to finish strong. The school year's not over and there are still tests to take and papers to write and lunches to make and we still need to be up by the crack of Dawn. God is good and we are still running the race and fighting the good fight, for another couple weeks.

Love this :)

2010-05-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

This picture is so perfect for my girls :) I love the white painted floor and the floral carpet and the robins egg blue walls and the petite little night stand and the peaches and cream bedding, all the wonderful pillows and the gauzy curtains with the vintage door knobs as hooks :) Even the notebook on the floor with a pencil reminds me of Emma, always writing. to change what we have to this would involve paint and lots of it as well as *new* bedding. We have a desk that we could paint cream . .. hmmm . .. And the cute rug! Where would I find it? Just thinking out loud. Suggestions?

My Mothers day Lesson

2010-05-10T11:02:00.000-07:00

Today was that day. The day I have prepared for every year for 11 years. Mothers Day. I have meticulously planned and prepared and readied my home and each and every year.

Only. To. Be. Disappointed.

And it was all my fault. I had no faith in my amazing husband to pull off one day with out my hands in it. In my children to Love me and Shower me in thanks with out my direction. Like a director I put everything on the stage and then placed the actors in their positions with the script in their hands and with HIGH expectations required Oscar winning performances. "Why?" I would ask myself. "Can other families make mothers day special without their mothers telling them what to do?"

So this year I decided to have no expectations and just see what would happen. I didn't take my children to make flower pots for me at Big R, like I usually do or go to help them pick out cards for me or any of it.

I just woke up.

Sunday morning I woke to a QUIET house. This alone bizarre and strange and even slightly spectroesque. I walked down stairs, opened the blinds ~ truck, hubby and Emma gone. hmmmmm....

The other 4 were still asleep so I hunkered down on the couch to wait :) Emma rushed in the door with a big smile and a bright yellow bouquet of flowers! (yea #1) Hubby was following right behind her with my grande caramel macchiatto. (yea #2) Emma then went to rouse Nolen, Ty, Mia and Nadia for the present opening! They all made me cards and Nolen even made me a beaded bookmark for my Bible :) Their thoughts were so kind. They all made me swear not to lift a finger for the rest of the day. Then there was a town hall meeting (that I was not allowed to be a part of) to solidify the plans for the day. We all jumped in the car in our church clothes and headed out. We ended up at one of my favorite places, Apple Annies a massive antique store that is bigger than Target, and has a 50's diner inside. We looked around for a couple of house and ohhed and Awwwed over all of the great bits of Amaricana then headed over to get something to eat. Nolen and Emma were insistent on buying us all fun drinks so we got to try something more 50's ish for a change. We had huge burgers and laughed and took tons of pictures :)

Next we headed to Leavenworth for a day of exploring the Bavarian shops. We tried on hats at the hat shop. We examined all of the toys in the toy store. We scrutinized the bikes in the bike shop for one to fit Nadia and Mia. The girls and I breezed through the Kitchen shop and then we walked down to Blackbird Island for a nature walk. We walked around most of the island and landed at a small old fashioned playground hidden in a small glade. It was one of the warmest days we've had so far (70*) and it was sunny. Scott started a rousing game of throw the stones into the puddle (amazingly enough it had rules). The children played Pooh Sticks on the bridge and Emma created a game for us to play on the various stumps that consisted of us all pretending to be statues and with various rules and such :) Nolen tried to spear a fish with his walking stick, the fish laughed. My children had so much fun together playing and laughing, creating memories the will last forever. Not contrived, but real. I was walking with them all at various times during the day and we all talked and walked holding hands. They showered me with love and affection and I was PRESENT with them rather than directing them. We then headed home and after a few stops got home at 7ish tired and happy. My tank was full to over flowing and I didn't have to plan anything. Today was favorite.

Lesson Learned.

The state of your counters

2010-04-20T09:16:00.000-07:00

There are so many wonderful things about a clean house and ESPECIALLY a clean and managed kitchen. This one is filled with all sorts of sweet treats and beautiful things that are both needed and glorious. Jars filled with coffee, beans and flour. How thorough is that? Cutting boards Espresso machine, springy towel ~ All the things needed to run a a home cheerfully with your family in mind :) What do you have on your counters? Are your counters piled high with dirty dishes or food that needs a home or papers from school or things that just need to be thrown away or put away? Mine are, and I also have the Vita-mix to think about. I love having it and would love to use it more, so I keep it out. Because, frankly if I leave it in the cabinet I will readily forget about it and then one day proclaim, "Oh! Yea, the Vita-mix!" Then It becomes a new day :) *sigh* I once heard in a sermon the preacher proclaim that the state of your room reflects the state of your heart. Then as a side thought say, " Now I know all of you stay-at-home-moms with preschoolers will want to immediately run home and clean your rooms, but this is not for you. " I can say that the state of your kitchen does reflect how you're doing. It does me. I LOVE the look of bare clean counters, but wonder why mine are always full and crum-filled. Each day is new and there is grace to start again. So I'm off to clear the counters and fill them with what will bless me as well as my family, sweet, beautiful and useful hopefully they will stay that way for longer than a day :)

Come to this amazing event :)

2010-04-15T15:07:00.000-07:00

CHORAL EVENSONG

April 17, 2010, 7PM

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Grace Lutheran Church

1408 Washington St.

Wenatchee, WA

7pm

Join us for

Evensong as the joint

choirs of Trinity Reformed

Church, Moscow, ID and

Trinity Church, Wenatchee,

WA sing works by Thomas

Tomkins, James McMillen,

and Herbert Howells

accompanied by Erich Knapp,

organist.

Meet the choristers and

others from the community at

a Light Reception immediately

following the service

Twins for the day :)

2010-04-08T15:49:00.000-07:00

My dear daughters were waiting for this day for a long time :) They talked and talked about how on Easter they would be twins for the day!! Everything had to be the same, dress, sweater, tights, shoes, hair, clippies the whole nine yards. They hoped people would forget they were 2 years apart (almost exactly) and think they were twins, not be able to tell them apart. They were gorgeous and it was a sweet and joyful day. They hunted for eggs and shouted at the top of their lungs, "HE IS RISEN INDEED!". They were mixed up almost every time and they had huge smiles and knowing glances were shot back and forth to each other all morning and afternoon. I loved it, too. I always wished that I had a sister that I was so close to , who could dress the same and confuse people. I always wanted a twin, truth be told ( and curly red hair and blazing green eyes, but that's another story :). Another sweet day for the memory. God is good.

Can't wait for these days!

2010-04-07T09:03:00.000-07:00

Nolen and Mia at our favorite spot in Wenatchee. Pleanty for sand soft grass, water and a beautiful view of East Wenatchee across the river :)

Mr. Ty puffed up and feelin' manly

Emma is trying to grow her hair out, but amybe I can convince her to get it this short again. I just love little girls with cute pixie cuts :)

The weather is finally moving out of the realm of freezing and into nice yet untrustworthy. Last week it rained like there was no tomorrow, then it warmed up the sun cam out and it was one of the best days we've had in a long time. It did snow on Easter, but only a few flakes that didn't stick. Fleeces with Easter dresses?! Wrong . . .

I have been reading a great book on the Christian home and making it a place of respit and repose for your family as well as a ministry tool to your friends and neighborhood. Some of my favorite parts so far:

p.8 ". . .can't (our homes) be places where our children feel as though they're in another world where dreams and hard facts are celebrated? Who wants to be normal? Everyone else is normal. This knid of different is good."

p.9 " The hour glass has been upended. You have one chance at this... the message here is not shame and blame. But it is urgency. Focus. Purposefulness. Intentionality. Care.

p. 10 In a grace-filled Christian home there is salvation. There is frogiveness. There is hope. Genuine happiness. There is purpose there. Powere there - for parents as well as children. This kind of grace affects everything that goes on inside this home.

p. 15 "Culture friendly" can't be on our family's priority list. That builds nothing in our homes and takes us nowhere. "Different" schould be on that list.

p. 53 The most important people in your world come through thah door and when they 're inside your home, it's your job to surround them with love.

p.56 And remember you goal as a parent isn't perfection. It's transparency.

p.63 This parenting thing is serious business, and there's no one on Earth in a better position - or better qualified than you nad me to do it right.

Pre-Valentines date

2010-02-12T10:19:00.001-08:00

Hubby and I went out with some wonderful and hilarious friends last weekend and had so much fun. Scott and Corey solved all the worlds problems (and in one night, too!) and Noelle and I shopped :) I came away with a book by Thomas a Kempis (SIGH), it had to be a book, right? It is great, a bit too convicing and evcouraging to be bought on a date night, but oh well. We went up to Leavenworth and had dinner at Visconti's. It was really relaxing, and I found myself wondering how much we were missing out on by not inviting more of our friends out on double dates with us .. .

Mia, Ty and Nadia

2010-02-09T07:47:00.000-08:00

Mia Elaine at her BEST!

Sweet Nadia

She just loves this kitty shirt. It looks a lot better outside in this picture then it does in reality. She loves to stand on the window bench and look out the window for puppies at the park across the street. When she actually see's one she gets REALLY excited :)

Here's Ty with his Big Thumbs Up (or BTU as Scott calls it.)

Our 2010 started out pretty slow. We have been really healthy (except for a few sick days for hubby) and have been deep in the trenches of Mock Trial season. This simply put means we don't see Scott as much, and I spend a lot more time at the school picking the children up.
Nadia and Ty have become such great buddies lately and can't bare to be separated. Each Wednesday and Thursday morning we go to a bible study and afterwards when I pick them up from their classes it's like a big family reunion! With shouts of, " Titus!!" and "Nadia!! I missed you!!". You'd think they never saw each other, rather that just a mere 2 hour separation. It honestly brings tears of joy to my eyes every time. It really is nice to know that your children really do love each other :)
Nolen, Emma and Mia are plugging away at school. Time is here to gear up for the Elementary speech meet. So we've been choosing between poems, scriptures and fables. Emma always wants to do the poem that Nolen did last year, which she does well, but each year we try to get her to be excited about something else (to no avail). Why ruin a good thing, eh?
The top picture of Mia is so her! She is always the one to bring that spontaneous smile to our gloomy days and is always ready with the big hug to cheer you up. She will be the one volunteering to help no matter what the problem is :) Love that sweet girl!

Prayers of an Excellent Wife

2010-02-08T21:07:00.001-08:00

There are few books that I would buy after knowing about them for less that a minute, and this one definitely fits within that category. I was brought to tears by some of the prayers that I read and encouraged by the small sections that I read out of the introduction. There is an explanation of why the author wrote it in the beginning that was amazing, one that shuffled the deck and landed the aces on top. The prayers are just what I was looking for for my hubby. They are precise and full. If you LOVE, respect and truly want to help your husband on the level that only prayer can then this book definitely belongs on your bedside table. You can download it for free or you can order your own copy for under $5. Mine is in the mail :)

February 8th Evening . . .

2010-02-08T20:56:00.001-08:00

Matthew 1:21
He shall save His people from their sins.

Many persons, if they are asked what they understand by salvation, will reply, "Being saved from hell and taken to heaven." This is one result of salvation, but it is not one tithe of what is contained in that boon. It is true our Lord Jesus Christ does redeem all His people from the wrath to come; He saves them from the fearful condemnation which their sins had brought upon them; but His triumph is far more complete than this. He saves His people "from their sins." Oh! sweet deliverance from our worst foes. Where Christ works a saving work, He casts Satan from his throne, and will not let him be master any longer. No man is a true Christian if sin reigns in his mortal body. Sin will be in us-it will never be utterly expelled till the spirit enters glory; but it will never have dominion. There will be a striving for dominion-a lusting against the new law and the new spirit which God has implanted-but sin will never get the upper hand so as to be absolute monarch of our nature. Christ will be Master of the heart, and sin must be mortified. The Lion of the tribe of Judah shall prevail, and the dragon shall be cast out. Professor! is sin subdued in you? If your life is unholy your heart is unchanged, and if your heart is unchanged you are an unsaved person. If the Saviour has not sanctified you, renewed you, given you a hatred of sin and a love of holiness, He has done nothing in you of a saving character. The grace which does not make a man better than others is a worthless counterfeit. Christ saves His people, not in their sins, but from them. "Without holiness no man shall see the Lord." "Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity." If not saved from sin, how shall we hope to be counted among His people. Lord, save me now from all evil, and enable me to honour my Saviour.

February 8th morning . . .

2010-02-08T08:10:00.000-08:00

Matthew 1:21
Thou shalt call his name Jesus.

When a person is dear, everything connected with him becomes dear for his sake. Thus, so precious is the person of the Lord Jesus in the estimation of all true believers, that everything about Him they consider to be inestimable beyond all price. "All Thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia," said David, as if the very vestments of the Saviour were so sweetened by His person that he could not but love them. Certain it is, that there is not a spot where that hallowed foot hath trodden-there is not a word which those blessed lips have uttered-nor a thought which His loving Word has revealed-which is not to us precious beyond all price. And this is true of the names of Christ-they are all sweet in the believer's ear. Whether He be called the Husband of the Church, her Bridegroom, her Friend; whether He be styled the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world-the King, the Prophet, or the Priest-every title of our Master-Shiloh, Emmanuel, Wonderful, the Mighty Counsellor-every name is like the honeycomb dropping with honey, and luscious are the drops that distil from it. But if there be one name sweeter than another in the believer's ear, it is the name of Jesus. Jesus! it is the name which moves the harps of heaven to melody. Jesus! the life of all our joys. If there be one name more charming, more precious than another, it is this name. It is woven into the very warp and woof of our psalmody. Many of our hymns begin with it, and scarcely any, that are good for anything, end without it. It is the sum total of all delights. It is the music with which the bells of heaven ring; a song in a word; an ocean for comprehension, although a drop for brevity; a matchless oratorio in two syllables; a gathering up of the hallelujahs of eternity in five letters.
"Jesus, I love Thy charming name,
'Tis music to mine ear."

February 7th evening . ..

2010-02-07T17:15:00.000-08:00

Revelation 11:12
And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither.

Without considering these words in their prophetical connection, let us regard them D as the invitation of our great Forerunner to His sanctified people. In due time there shall be heard "a great voice from heaven" to every believer, saying, "Come up hither." This should be to the saints the subject of joyful anticipation. Instead of dreading the time when we shall leave this world to go unto the Father, we should be panting for the hour of our emancipation. Our song should be-
"My heart is with Him on His throne,
And ill can brook delay;
Each moment listening for the voice,
'Rise up and come away.'"
We are not called down to the grave, but up to the skies. Our heaven-born spirits should long for their native air. Yet should the celestial summons be the object of patient waiting. Our God knows best when to bid us "Come up thither." We must not wish to antedate the period of our departure. I know that strong love will make us cry,

"O Lord of Hosts, the waves divide,And land us all in heaven;" but patience must have her perfect work. God ordains with accurate wisdom the most fitting time for the redeemed to abide below. Surely, if there could be regrets in heaven, the saints might mourn that they did not live longer here to do more good. Oh, for more sheaves for my Lord's garner! more jewels for His crown! But how, unless there be more work? True, there is the other side of it, that, living so briefly, our sins are the fewer; but oh! when we are fully serving God, and He is giving us to scatter precious seed, and reap a hundredfold, we would even say it is well for us to abide where we are. Whether our Master shall say "go," or "stay," let us be equally well pleased so long as He indulges us with His presence.

February 6th morning . . .

2010-02-06T09:46:00.001-08:00

"Praying always." — Ephesians 6:18.

THAT multitudes of prayers we have put up from the first moment when we learned to pray. Our first prayer was a prayer for ourselves; we asked that God would have mercy upon us, and blot out our sin. He heard us. But when He had blotted out our sins like a cloud, then we had more prayers for ourselves. We have had to pray for sanctifying grace, for constraining and restraining grace; we have been led to crave for a fresh assurance of faith, for the comfortable application of the promise, for deliverance in the hour of temptation, for help in the time of duty, and for succour in the day of trial. We have been compelled to go to God for our souls, as constant beggars asking for everything. Bear witness, children of God, you have never been able to get anything for your souls elsewhere. All the bread your soul has eaten has come down from heaven, and all the water of which it has drank has flowed from the living rock—Christ Jesus the Lord. Your soul has never grown rich in itself; it has always been a pensioner upon the daily bounty of God; and hence your prayers have ascended to heaven for a range of spiritual mercies all but infinite. Your wants were innumerable, and therefore the supplies have been infinitely great, and your prayers have been as varied as the mercies have been countless. Then have you not cause to say, "I love the Lord, because He hath heard the voice of my supplication"? For as your prayers have been many, so also have been God's answers to them. He has heard you in the day of trouble, has strengthened you, and helped you, even when you dishonoured Him by trembling and doubting at the mercy-seat. Remember this, and let it fill your heart with gratitude to God, who has thus graciously heard your poor weak prayers. "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.

February 5th morning . . .

2010-02-05T07:59:00.001-08:00

1 John 4:14
The Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.

It is a sweet thought that Jesus Christ did not come forth without His Father's permission, authority, consent, and assistance. He was sent of the Father, that He might be the Saviour of men. We are too apt to forget that, while there are distinctions as to the persons in the Trinity, there are no distinctions of honour. We too frequently ascribe the honour of our salvation, or at least the depths of its benevolence, more to Jesus Christ than we do the Father. This is a very great mistake. What if Jesus came? Did not His Father send Him? If He spake wondrously, did not His Father pour grace into His lips, that He might be an able minister of the new covenant? He who knoweth the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost as he should know them, never setteth one before another in his love; he sees them at Bethlehem, at Gethsemane, and on Calvary, all equally engaged in the work of salvation. O Christian, hast thou put thy confidence in the Man Christ Jesus? Hast thou placed thy reliance solely on Him? And art thou united with Him? Then believe that thou art united unto the God of heaven. Since to the Man Christ Jesus thou art brother, and holdest closest fellowship, thou art linked thereby with God the Eternal, and "the Ancient of days" is thy Father and thy friend. Didst thou ever consider the depth of love in the heart of Jehovah, when God the Father equipped His Son for the great enterprise of mercy? If not, be this thy day's meditation. The Father sent Him! Contemplate that subject. Think how Jesus works what the Father wills. In the wounds of the dying Saviour see the love of the great I AM. Let every thought of Jesus be also connected with the Eternal, ever-blessed God, for "It pleased the Lord to bruise Him; He hath put Him to grief."

February 4th Evening . . .

2010-02-04T16:53:00.000-08:00

Joshua 20:3
Your refuge from the avenger of blood.

It is said that in the land of Canaan, cities of refuge were so arranged, that any man might reach one of them within half a day at the utmost. Even so the word of our salvation is near to us; Jesus is a present Saviour, and the way to Him is short; it is but a simple renunciation of our own merit, and a laying hold of Jesus, to be our all in all. With regard to the roads to the city of refuge, we are told that they were strictly preserved, every river was bridged, and every obstruction removed, so that the man who fled might find an easy passage to the city. Once a year the elders went along the roads and saw to their order, so that nothing might impede the flight of any one, and cause him, through delay, to be overtaken and slain. How graciously do the promises of the gospel remove stumbling blocks from the way! Wherever there were by-roads and turnings, there were fixed up hand-posts, with the inscription upon them-"To the city of refuge!" This is a picture of the road to Christ Jesus. It is no roundabout road of the law; it is no obeying this, that, and the other; it is a straight road: "Believe, and live." It is a road so hard, that no self-righteous man can ever tread it, but so easy, that every sinner, who knows himself to be a sinner may by it find his way to heaven. No sooner did the man-slayer reach the outworks of the city than he was safe; it was not necessary for him to pass far within the walls, but the suburbs themselves were sufficient protection. Learn hence, that if you do but touch the hem of Christ's garment, you shall be made whole; if you do but lay hold upon him with "faith as a grain of mustard seed," you are safe.
"A little genuine grace ensures
The death of all our sins."
Only waste no time, loiter not by the way, for the avenger of blood is swift of foot; and it may be he is at your heels at this still hour of eventide.

February 4, Morning

2010-02-04T05:43:00.000-08:00

Thursday, February 04, 2010

This Morning's Meditation

C. H. Spurgeon

"The love of the Lord."—Hosea 3:1.
BELIEVER, look back through all thine experience, and think of the way whereby the Lord thy God has led thee in the wilderness, and how He hath fed and clothed thee every day—how He hath borne with thine ill manners—how He hath put up with all thy murmurings, and all thy longings after the flesh-pots of Egypt—how He has opened the rock to supply thee, and fed thee with manna that came down from heaven. Think of how His grace has been sufficient for thee in all thy troubles—how His blood has been a pardon to thee in all thy sins—how His rod and His staff have comforted thee. When thou hast thus looked back upon the love of the Lord, then let faith survey His love in the future, for remember that Christ's covenant and blood have something more in them than the past. He who has loved thee and pardoned thee, shall never cease to love and pardon. He is Alpha, and He shall be Omega also: He is first, and He shall be last. Therefore, bethink thee, when thou shalt pass through the valley of the shadow of death, thou needest fear no evil, for He is with thee. When thou shalt stand in the cold floods of Jordan, thou needest not fear, for death cannot separate thee from His love; and when thou shalt come into the mysteries of eternity thou needest not tremble, "For I am persuaded, that neither death; nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Now, soul, is not thy love refreshed? Does not this make thee love Jesus? Doth not a flight through illimitable plains of the ether of love inflame thy heart and compel thee to delight thyself in the Lord thy God? Surely as we meditate on "the love of the Lord," our hearts burn within us, and we long to love Him more.

Evening February 3rd

2010-02-03T18:11:00.000-08:00

“Tell me ... where thou feedest, where thou makest thy flock to rest at noon.”
Song of Solomon 1:7

These words express the desire of the believer after Christ, and his longing for present communion with him. Where doest thou feed thy flock? In thy house? I will go, if I may find thee there. In private prayer? Then I will pray without ceasing. In the Word? Then I will read it diligently. In thine ordinances? Then I will walk in them with all my heart. Tell me where thou feedest, for wherever thou standest as the Shepherd, there will I lie down as a sheep; for none but thyself can supply my need. I cannot be satisfied to be apart from thee. My soul hungers and thirsts for the refreshment of thy presence. “Where dost thou make thy flock to rest at noon?” for whether at dawn or at noon, my only rest must be where thou art and thy beloved flock. My soul’s rest must be a grace-given rest, and can only be found in thee. Where is the shadow of that rock? Why should I not repose beneath it? “Why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions?” Thou hast companions—why should I not be one? Satan tells me I am unworthy; but I always was unworthy, and yet thou hast long loved me; and therefore my unworthiness cannot be a bar to my having fellowship with thee now. It is true I am weak in faith, and prone to fall, but my very feebleness is the reason why I should always be where thou feedest thy flock, that I may be strengthened, and preserved in safety beside the still waters. Why should I turn aside? There is no reason why I should, but there are a thousand reasons why I should not, for Jesus beckons me to come. If he withdrew himself a little, it is but to make me prize his presence more. Now that I am grieved and distressed at being away from him, he will lead me yet again to that sheltered nook where the lambs of his fold are sheltered from the burning sun.

Sickness banned!

2010-02-02T13:42:00.000-08:00

The last couple of days my hubby and (yesterday) son Nolen were home sick and I think I am all done with that! I am ready for SPRING and the sun that comes with it. Hubby is on the mend and Nolen went to school today bounding out the door. When 10 year olds recover they RECOVER!!
On a slightly different note . . .
We watched the sermon that Mark Driscol preached on his fact finding trip to Haiti. It was amazing. If you get a chance to watch it you should. There are video clips and pictures that he and his team took while down there. Their goal was to find out what other churches could do to help the church at large down in Haiti. Almost every church in the epicenter is in ruins as well as numerous hospitals, schools and seminary's. He told of a man that was teaching during the first wave of the quake in a multi story building. He told his class and his wife to wait inside while he went outside to find out what was happening. As soon as he got out of the building it collapsed entirely. He then (knowing that his wife had just been killed) ran home to see if his 4 boys were safe. Arriving home he found them safely standing outside waiting for him. When Mark's team found him he was surrounded by his small boys one in his arms with a big smile on his face. He had just come from burying his wife. When they asked how he could possibly have any joy at all he said, "By God's grace. My joy is in Christ." WOW.

Here is the U Tube site for the sermon 32 hours in Haiti
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQo76Itl6cw

The dawning of a new day

2010-01-25T08:15:00.000-08:00

Well, a new day has dawned :) We have a beautiful *new* espresso machine and I am loving it. Sunday morning dawned with my hubby waking up to a steaming latte gently drawing him from his slumber and Sunday night the debate began.

Me: Hubby, having the espresso machine is great! It gives you an easy outlet for sacrificing for me. All you have to do is make me a latte occasionally

Hubby: Actually it will be a great way for you to help me since I have lots of work to do tonight and I'm really tired.

So you see it is a great thing for both of us :) This morning I came down stairs to find my hubby not only making me a latte in my "happy home" mug, but then he made a heart on top out of the foam. For some reason this warmed my heart and made all those grumpy just woke up feelings vanish :) The latte machine will be staying . Thank God for those little things that add not only JOY but a good ol' shot of caffeine to your day

Soapmaking Christmas

2009-12-30T14:03:00.000-08:00

Above is the results of cutting the stuff below.

This Christmas break has been frought with much soapmaking. We have made mint chocolate swirl, seen here.

We have also made Lilac, coconut lime and tangarine/energy. When Scott asked us what our favorites were we all picked a different one, so hopefully that means that they're all good. Here are some great pic's of the children and how excited they all are about the soap. Trust me I was surprised at how much they all love it. Our break has so far been filled with eating reading, relaxing and we even made a quick trip to Silverdale to visit with my parents and have a second Christmas with them on Sunday and Monday. We planned on coming back on Wednesday, but decided with the pass reports to come back a day early and were so glad we did. The passes were bare and dry for us, and when we came home and checked them they were slushy, slick and snowy! Blech!

An Advent reminder :)

2009-12-08T12:21:00.000-08:00

"Each day the number of requests we receive normally outnumber the time allotted for the day. My experience confirms that if I fail to attack my week with theologically informed planning, my week attacks me with an onslaught of the urgent. And I end up devoting more time to the urgent than the important.

And at the end of the week there is a low-grade guilt and dissatisfaction in my soul, because I’ve neglected to do the truly important stuff. I want to have as few weeks like this as possible in whatever time remains for me to serve the Savior. I’m thinking you do as well."
~ CJ Mahaney taken from his blog

This quote struck me particularly because of the directness of it. How much of your day is consumed with the urgent and not with what you sat down and specifically planned out to do and to accomplish for the day, week, year? Why? Why is it so hard to just say, "No, I can't do that I have only a short amount of time in my life and I have to devote it to the work that I have planned and prayed out to do." Why is that guilt even there? Planning is a crucial and vital part to our days. Scott and I have begun to realize how much more we get done, and how much more unified we are but just simply sitting down and planning out our days in the morning before the children get up and we are in the river again. It gives us the lifeline we need to get where we need to go and the map to get there quickly.

For the longest time I mocked and scoffed at the idea of a meal plan, especially those that spanned longer than a week at a time. I felt like they were compartmentalizing their time tooo much and not allowing for any creativity in the realm of cooking (which I love). Consequently my life was consumed in the evenings with what we were going to have for dinner and making sure I had on hand what I would need for any meal I felt the desire to create when the muse descended. This was making me crazy and grumpy and costing us more than the allotted food budget. So one day I decided to try a meal plan, and in my usual fashion I jumped in with both feet and made a 6-week meal plan. I have been so happy with the peace and ease it has given me. This area is now one that I consider a no-brainer, meal plans are definitely much easier. I have figured out meal plans around the rigors of mock trial season, Christmas, our Easter liturgy and our daily evening schedule. It has also saved us vast amounts of money on food and almost eliminated our food waste. I have been able to give my family a more well balanced diet and consequently my hubby who was on the verge of teetering off the high end of the Triglyceride and cholesterol scale is now on the low end of normal and doing great. My point is that even in this small area God is blessing me richly by my planning and prayer and I know that He intends greater blessings to come.

During the Christmas season and specifically this time of Advent leading up to Christmas when we are all doing our shopping for Christmas presents how could this not be more relevant? What are you buying for your children and why? Have you been sucked in to buy that *new* great thing that you saw at Target thinking they would just LOVE it? Or did you sit down with you hubby and DECIDE what to buy before you even set out? Will you tree be chocked full with a bunch of little gifts that you hope they like and will use for longer than a week, or did you consider them and what one thing they will truly use and love and remember? Were you struck with the urgent desire to buy that great thing that you saw that will just end up as next summer's garage sale fodder? I remember a few years back those ugly Furby's, now honestly. What about the Tickle Me Elmo? Who really bought that because they saw the joy and peace it would bring to the aroma of their home? This is a case of being sucked in to the fads of the day and not planning.

The day is only 24 hours long, and the week 7 days, and the month around 30, and the year a mere 365 days. Yet, each one of us has a task to complete within that time span. Not all of the request on our time are for us. Every day I am asked to do numerous things that are all good and wonderful, but that doesn't mean that I should do all of them. There are things that I just do not need to accomplish. There are so many patients and only so many doctors. Should they feel guilty because they can't possibly see them all? No, that would be foolish and a waste of time. They should be thankful for the ones that are brought to them and work hard to help them completely. There are so many great books and yet impossible to read them all. Should we give up? NO! Read away! But that is why we need to prayerfully consider and plan our days out and not get swept away and waste the life that God has given us. We have many opportunities here to do and to learn many things to teach our children and to provided for others to teach them. I have an aunt that had 5 boys. Each of them was athletic. None of them are professional athletes, but all are hard workers and have accomplished a lot (even though the oldest one is a youngish 33). My aunt and uncle saw that sports would help them teach diligence and hard work, their goal was not to raise a football star or another Michael Phelps. The sports were tools and decisions to put them in were made after debating their usefulness to the larger goal at hand.

My hubby and I always shake out heads when we hear someone say that one of their children was an accident. How could that happen? Are they so completely unaware of the cause of pregnancy? No, they are living a live completely unplanned and unthoughtout, and because of their lifestyle they have once again been caught staring into the headlights of their life, coming at them like a semi.

Make prayerful decisions and do not be swept away with wasted days filled with the urgent. Enjoy your life and bless those around you. Make schedules and plans, but use them as your tools, do not be brought under their weight and domination. They are your servants you are not theirs. You are Christ's and His burden is LIGHT. Now go do the important things and go to sleep tonight satisfied in your soul and not feeling guilty in the slightest.

Advent Day 8

2009-12-08T08:41:00.000-08:00

Today was Mia's turn to open the Advent box and so tonight we are planning to sit down together and decorate our otherwise bare windows and make snowflakes as a family. It should be interesting, knowing our family. Yesterday we sat down as a family and watched Bless Your Beautiful Hide from the Seven Brides for Seven Brothers movie in Italian. The children got a real kick out of it and Scott and I are linguistic nerds so we loved it. The verse of the day is:

"Now the birth of Jesus Christ WAS as follows: AfterHis mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make he a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. But while he though about these things, behold, and angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will brign forth a son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people form their sins." ~Matther 1:18-21

And I am so thankful that the angel was sent and Joseph did not put her away secretly.

Bring on Advent!

2009-12-07T13:51:00.000-08:00

We have been enjoying a lot of Advent fun around here. Scott and the children and I have been opening a small ring sized box every morning and inside is a scroll that says:

Happy Advent Welches!

Read: the verse of the day here

Today we are going to: (fill in fun activity) as a family!

The children are alternating who's turn it is to open a box (Emma made a master list just in case anyone forgets. Like that's going to happen!). They are loving it!! They come down to a small chocolate sitting on their breakfast plate, making it easy for them to really get into.

Hot New Ride

2009-11-23T21:16:00.000-08:00

You don't want to mess with this.

Welcome FALL!

2009-11-06T13:25:00.000-08:00

Your sweet apple dipped voice

beckons the leaves from the trees

and sswirls them down the streets

as they sway to and fro

like a small quite ballroom.

We are the spectators

until you grab us and swing us around

by the tips of our hair

Hello to thick tights!

Hello to long skirts!

Hello to Warm sweaters!

Hello to LOOOOG scarves!

Welcome back Fall *

Dancing pink eraser in action

2009-11-06T13:15:00.000-08:00

TYISMS

2009-11-06T13:12:00.001-08:00

Ty to Nadia while taking a tubbie :

"You are a dancing pink eraser!"

Happy day!

2009-11-02T13:40:00.001-08:00

When you're BFF . . .

2009-10-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

Lately the conversation regarding friendship has been resounding in our home. At the dinner table, at breakfast, during car rides and at all points in between. We have been talking about it's minutest detail and all of the glories held within the simple word "friend". The children have friends from school and friends from church and their siblings of course that they consider friends, "but who is my BEST FRIEND!?" they ask, desperate to know. In a way we don't know who our best friends will be during our lifetime, though with out a doubt we can have
faith and rest assured that our one true FRIEND is and always will be Jesus. The one we can know understands what we are REALLY going through and who can actually help us. WE can call on Him any time and he will always hear us and give us true comfort in the Comforter. We may wonder if he hears us at times, but never can we doubt the truth , which is that without a doubt He does. We watched a video last night depicting the Crucifixion, Christ's death and Resurrection that really brought it home to all of us. Mia kept saying, "It just isn't fair that he would have to go through all of that for me. When he didn't sin at all." Nolen said, "He could have called down a legion of angels to destroy his enemies, or the mountains to crash down around him killing them all, or had the earth open up and swallow them all instantly, but he CHOSE not to because he wanted to die for us and wanted it to be on purpose. Scott reminded them that it wasn't the nails that kept our savoir on the cross, but it was His will alone.
What a grorious prospect! We are saved not by our own work or by an accident or by a GOD who could have been thwarted, but by a REAL and INTENTIONAL deed that was accomplished and has had immediate and far reaching consequences spanning through generations. Praise God for all of his blessings to us and for showing us all of this real time with the shadow which is friendship.

Titus special Bread

2009-09-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

I had to sneak a pic of our two trampolines on the night of Nadia's birthday party. Even under cover of darkness they still were bouncing like crazy!

I have lately learned that Ty is a man in need of a mission. I am in two separate bible studies one on Wednesday morning and one on Thursday morning. During the one on Wednesday he is in childcare and plays the whole time with his buddies and during the one on Thursday he is in a structured bible study as well. I learned in the first week taht he THRIVES on structure. He is not the same child on Thursday as Wednesday. He is happier and has far less issues wherein his sin oozes from his little body. So, in response to this I have decided that he is the one responsible to make the bread for our family. He LOVES it. If he's playing outside and I tell him it's time to make Titus' special bread he sprints in at breakneck speed. Here he is proudly displaying the finished product.

Here he is sniffing . . . mmmmmmmmm!

Here is the master baker rewarded with the love and thanks of his family. Little Nadia cannot contain herself most of the time and we will find a corner ripped off and stuffed into those cute chubby cheaks. Poor Ty. We have had to reassure him many times that it was made to be eaten, and little Na is so excited to be the first one to try. She loves that big bubba! So do we all!

Hey Y'all!

2009-09-22T09:42:00.000-07:00

This week was really fun, dispite being sick that is. The weather was beautiful and not the least bit fallesque. Routine! Ahh Blessed routine! Every summer I think how glad I am to have some freedom and ease. Then when the Fall rolls around again I realize how I need the routine of knowing what's around the corner. The dreaded "O" word has become my friend and I now strive for organization and thrive with it. It has become like Miracle Grow addinng richness and life to my day rather than pusing me into a box and draining my creativity. Organization with a dash of maturity = a happy me.

Hubby and I were up by 5:45 every day and the children were up with lunches made and cheerful, sleepy faces by 6:30 ready for breakfast. They finished up, got dressed in uniforms and hit the ground running. Backpacks on and out by 7:15 leaving Ty, Nadia and I to clean up the breakfast dishes and tidy up the rooms. Laundry has been easy since we have been working it into our early morning routines and then the children put it away when they get home.

We have had
** the first day of School! That went really well.
** the first day of Choir for Emma, Mia and Ty. They all were smiling and happy and are ready for day 2
** Nolen's first home game, He was tackling like crazy and was happy with the results. No injuries!!
** Emma and Mia's first day of harp for the 2009-2010 school year. I was surprised at how mature Emma had gotten through the summer. She is geared up and ready for a great year
**The first day of BSF for Ty, Nadia and I. The cutest thing that happened was Ty's first meeting with his teacher Mrs. Eagle. We had been telling Ty and Nadia how much we liked their teachers for a few days. So when he first saw he I bent down and said, " Ty, that's Mrs Eagle. " He got a huge smile on his face and fan to her saying "Mrs. Eagle!! Mrs. Eagle!! I love you." and gave her a HUGE hug.

All is off and running rather smoothly. We will definately have bumps in the road this year, we always do, but hopefully we will deal with them with wisdom and joy as a busy and organized family.

Time together is so good for us

2009-09-18T18:06:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I had so much fun on our break together I thought you should see the difference. We were lovin it.

I married a handsome man!!

I AM SICK

2009-09-16T12:01:00.000-07:00

Just in case I try to deny it (because I hate, with a passion being sick) I have been examined and pronounced unwell. I have tonsillitis and the Dr. winced when he looked into my mouth to check my huge throbbing throat. They are red and swollen and miserable. I am on some major antibiotics not the wimpy stuff, I'm talkin' the 5 day jobbers here (insert singing from angel choir *here*) and he said that I should feel better by tomorrow. Praise GOD!!! The trip to the pharmacy is not going to be on the "best moments of my life" hi light reel, so let me tell you. I walked in determined not to cry. Do you see where this is going? Walked confidently up to the counter and begged the pharmacy tech to RUSH my prescription and to notify me over the loud speaker when it was done. All in almost a whisper and holding my throat. We went straight to the starbucks counter and ( because I decided I was most certainly being picked on) ordered a pumpkin spice latte for me (GRANDE) and a vanilla bean frappaccino split in half with whipped cream, carmel drizzle and chocolate sprinkles for Ty and Nadia. They called my name and I paid for my prescriptions and plead with the pharmacist to give me some ideas on how to keep this from infecting my children, took my meds (choral music *Here* once again) right there on the spot (so, who cares if he felt awkward, I was miserable!!!) and left for home where we sipped our drinks and listened to a Horse and His Boy. Did I mention all the while trying not to cry because the 600mg of Ibuprofen was not even touching the pain in my throat?

We sat down to watch the Mickey mouse 3 musketeers and then lunch and naps all before 11am. I am hoping they will sleep for a while so I can rest, but we'll see. I am praying for a good day tomorrow since I won't be contageous any more (Praise the Lord for that good after 24 hours of antibiotics rule!!) and I was told by not only the dr. but the pharmacist that I would feel well. Yes, I know I'm being repiticious, but I'm banking on feeling good by tomorrow. We don't trust in chariots, horses or antibiotics, but a good God who loves us and gives us means to kill the effects of the fall and the serpent! To God be the glory!

Everything all at once

2009-09-15T14:00:00.000-07:00

Today is Update day!!!!

We have had a very busy and fun summer. We are oficially done with what we fondly refer to as our inadvertant re-model. Our basement looks amazing and our upstairs is now bright and sunny and beautiful.

Ty's 4th birthday was a blast and we all had so much fun!!! The day before we took the children and hiked up Blueberry Hill and plopped ourselves down under a blueberry bush and tried as hard as we could to eat ourselves out from under it. Luved it. The next day we packed our towels and a picnic and went up to Ty's favorite place in the world, the Quincy waterslides and were in the water all day. Very fun and relaxing.

My wonderful hubby was then down to only 3 weeks to prep for school, but surprised me with a break and we left our children with our very own Charis Bloander and he swooped me away for 2 nights and 3 glorious days to Coeur d'Alene. We were able to say out late and still catch up on our sleep since we didn't have to wake up with anyone at night! We walked so much and went to Thrift store and antique stores and treasure hunted. He took me out to an amazing restaurant called The Cedars. It floats on the lake and that day there was a Rainbow (*awwww*) and we had the most romantic table where we could see the whole lake. We swam in the pool every night and went for coffee at Starbucks every morning, shared all our meals and weren't in a rush to get anything done or go anywhere. This was a rare glimpse of glory, trust me.

When we got home we hit the ground running with football practice every night, and Scott coaching. Games every Saturday WooHaw!! Yes, my crock pot is gettin' some use.

Next was Nadia's 2nd birthday. It was so fun, and I realized how much my little girl has grown up. Literally and figuratively. She has been growing an inch a month and has been trying to do everything herself. She is a busy little bee. She is the first awake every morning and ready for every one to wake up, too. She goes around and searches for playmates. This is when she and Emma have some sweet fellowship together snuggling while they talk or sing psalms or Emma reads to her. We had the Byingtons and Madsons over and it was a crowd! It's so nice to have friends with big families, too. All the children had fun especially Nadia and the dancing! Wooooo! When these kids get older we are going to have some great swing dances in the backyard.

Now Nolen, Emma and Mia are back in school. They packed lunches, rechecked supplies and laid out their uniforms the day before and can you believe it!!! They were out the door by 7am!! after breakfast kisses and "wait, just one more picture!!" by me. Ty and Nadia had a rough start after everyone left but things smoothed out and now they are resting before we go pick up the big kids. The three of us cleaned the house, did laundry, paid bills, went to the bank, returned movies and went to Costco and Safeway ALL before lunch and they were cheerful! They even got to bless the socks off some grandmas and grandpas in the process. We have meatballs in the crock pot simmering with orange sauce just beggin for rice and a salad. This is also Titus first day of wee prep choir, Mia's first day of lil' prep choir and Emma's first day of girls prep choir. Football practice and a late dinner are at hand, but at least I know they will be warm and I won't be scrambling. AND that ladies makes a happy mommy :)

A pause in the midst of uploading florida photo's

2009-08-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

Well, I was hoping to post some Florida photo's, but I am needing to update you all on our little house. When we got back from Florida we had the last problem with out washer and the realization that we had a collapsed pipe under our house. Not a quiet little collapsed pipe, but a flooding, tear up the carpet and basement floor type of collapsed pipe. The little ones (Mia, Ty and Nadia) and I are in Silverdale until either Friday or Saturday hoping that there are enough of the BIG projects done for us to come home without them getting injured. Within an hour of the carpet being torn up all three of them had puncture wounds from the tack strips.

So, the four us us left for Silerdale and Scott, Nolen and Emma stayed so Scott could stay and head up the remodel project and the kiddo's could go to the art and music VBS they signed up for. They are all having a great time and Scott is getting a LOT accomplished.

The Puddle in the Pines

2009-07-11T05:53:00.000-07:00

We were strongly encouraged to visit this great spash park about 20 minutes away from Homosassa in the town of Inverness (they have a super Walmart!) called The Puddle in the Pines. It is so far hidden in the park that if you weren't sure it was there, trust me , you wouldn't just stumble upon it.

Here is a picture of Nolen and Ty loving the water cannon. Notice that the Puddle is fully fenced a great benefit when you have little ones like Nadia who get distracted easily :)

Here it is looking in. To the right is a covered picnic area and to the left is a huge play area with 3 play structures and lots of soft sugar sand. Brilliant in a children's play area. Our kids could have played there all day. We wanted to pack this one up and take it with us. Thank you Lynn Bressen for the awesome idea!!! You Rock!

Loving the 2010 Toyota Siena

2009-07-11T05:49:00.000-07:00

We rented this awesome Siena for our time here and will definately be sad to leave it in Florida.

It IS light blue but more an iridescent sky blue than a baby blue. And it is so big inside. We all have plenty of room and everything is fully loaded and automatic. Very nice.

Splash Time!

2009-07-11T05:44:00.000-07:00

Well, our time here is almost up and I haven't been blogging like I had intended, so I'm going to do one intense session right now to catch you all up on our Florida adventure. Ou days have been filled with lost of hot humid days which are perfect for anything water related like Slip and Sliding.

Especially slip-n-sliding with popcicle's!!! The back of my mother-in-law's house is in the back ground.

Here's Ty Making sure to get the last few drops from the Otter pop. Loving it.

We're Here!!!!

2009-06-23T18:59:00.000-07:00

We have officially arrived, and are comfortably situated in our Florida home for the month. Here is a picture of the play house that Scott's mom set up for the children. Trust me it's cooler than it looks :). Se set it up like a little house inside complete with cofffee table and little bed. Love it. The girls have taken to bringing Sharon's 2 pups in and calling them their boys. they take snacks in there and water in a coffee carafe. Too cute!!

Here is a picture of Ty and Nadia with their grandma, snuggling.

Here's the inagural fishing trip on Papaw's boat. Can't you just FEEL the anticipation!?!??! They look sooo old to me. They had a blast and we ate LOTS of fish that night. it was so good and extremely fresh.
I am hopefully going to post about the house and the PUDDLE. One note about the heat. It is blazing hot. Let's put it this way, the heat index goes up to 10 and right now it's at 12. YIKES!!!! We are dealing with it really well, the children are sweaty and happy . . . Bliss.

Beach Time!!!!

2009-06-11T23:25:00.000-07:00

Here in Wenatchee we have some great beaches. Well. as far as river beaches go and as far as small quite family get away's go :)
Nadia wanted to know if she could go and join in the fun.

This pic of Ty reminds me of the story The Quiltmakers Gift. The old woman in the story is placed on a small island to die, but is rescued by starlings who she repay's with small purple shawl's made from her own vest. Bright royal blue rashgurads probably won't keep the little starlings too warm. Sorry, Ty!

Here are the children immediately following their 5 minute warning. This is so classic Welch. We want to enjoy every drop of fun especially if we know we are leaving in the near future :)

And, last but not least I had to get a picture of my hunky hubby once again on my BLOG. Every once in a while even a respectable BLOG needs eye candy. Wooo Ha!

More chick pic's

2009-06-09T06:14:00.000-07:00

Here is Emma in total BLISS. She looks forward to this almost more than everyone else. She holds them and loves then and then we basically give her her own bottle of hand sanitizer :)

This is such a funny picture because right after it was taken Mia screamed and threw the fluffy little chick back intothe bin. She was so scared that one of them would bite her. Too funny.

Her is a group shot of everyone enjoying the day! Vive les CHICKS!!!

Our favorite day in May

2009-06-09T06:09:00.000-07:00

Sometime in May our family traditionally drives down to Ace Hardware and has a Chick of a time! The chldren from Nolen down to Nadia love to watch and hold these cute little fellas. They are so soft and fluffy. Here is Nolen fishing one of them out.

Here is Nadia and how she is most of the time. Keeping a close eye on them and ocasionally breaking out in squeels of glee.

Nolen with a chick. CUTE!!!

Ty, not sure if he's quite ready to touch one, but watching is fun, too!!

Finally Healthy!!!

2009-06-06T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today marks day one of a long anticipated day where ALL of the children and Scott are healthy at once :) I have been in the pink the whole time, but who wouldn't with all of the running (mainly up and down stairs) and sun (chasing the children around the yard) and great food that I eat (since I pick it all out and make it and sometimes, more often now than when it's yuck outside, my hubby grills for us). Today we went to Rotary park. WE actually refer to this glorious place as "Sprinkler park" or "Dinosaur Park" and Nadia has started calling it "Frinkler Park" since she calls all sprinklers "frinklers" any way. On the way there I picked up some awesome beach towels from our trusty Goodwill and we were on our way. Seriously though, they ROCK! The clerk and I were waxing eloquent about how they were a piece of our country's past and we were just picturing the great times had around these very towels in the past. No Pokemon, no Princesses just a crossection of Americana... Ahhhhhh..... The children played hard and we all went out to celebrate our health and our great family. God is good.

This is why we go

2009-06-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

We are off to Florida in 2 short weeks and we are beginning the process of planning and packing. I am so excited to go and see my grand-parents-in-law and mother-in-law and hopefully lots of cousins and aunts and uncles. We LOVE it there. Not because we are really touristy people, but because of the SHARKS!!!

And the GRANDMAS and GRANDPAS

And fishing with papaw in the gulf of Mexico. We are staying for a month with my mother in law and the children are down right GIDDY!! We are excited to really get involved with the church we go to (Nature Coast Community Church) especially since we love the pastor and his family :) And we can't wait to spend some time with them.

Brazen praise

2009-05-18T22:54:00.000-07:00

There are some days you just have to brazenly, unabashedly praise someone. When there is a distinct antithesis and light and darkness are opposed you just gotta love the light, here is my attempt at just that. . .

My recent experience with Dr. Milner and the staff at Fibonacci Smile was a far cry from what you would expect from a typical visit to the dentist. I have a fear of the dentist, obvious from my first step into the office. My palms are sweaty and I have to sit down as quickly as I can before I pass out. I can’t look anyone in the eye with out crying. Needless to say my past experiences have been less than stellar (think concentration camp dentistry). This has caused me to wait too long to get needed work done and to skip cleanings all together causing things to pile up and get worse. What, it won’t just go away?!

When I came in to talk to Dr. Milner about a chipped tooth he carefully examined it and then ushered me into his office for a talk. He calmly reassured me that everything could be fixed and would look wonderful to boot. Then he asked me the hard question. What is the main reason that you have been reluctant to get this work done? Tears began to flow and my deep fear was revealed. He calmly and professionally assured me that I would be fine and would be taught how to take care of my teeth the RIGHT way and I would be given a fresh start.

My first step on my dental journey was to see Kelly the hygienist. But before I even got back for my cleaning and exam I was greeted by Patty’s cheerful smile and sweet reassurance that I would be taken care of and a wonderful paraffin hand dip! Kelly was on heightened alert due to my fears and was ready to put me completely at ease. She offered to let me use the nitrous oxide to calm my nerves. For a cleaning? I had never even thought of it! It was just what I needed. She talked me through everything and offered reassurance that things were not as bad as I had thought initially. When I left I was calm and filled with lots of info on taking care of my teeth and mouth more effectively. She was amazingly receptive to my millions of questions and answered them all easily. As I was leaving she walked me out and gave me a hug and a “have a great day” .

I then had my first big visit with Dr. Milner and Shery. They ushered me into the office. I sat down in the massage chair, for a full back and leg massage. I was given Ibuprofen before they started as a precautionary measure and assured if I needed anything stronger then Dr. Milner would call it in for me. They put a movie on for me, offered me nitrous again and Dr. Milner began. The injection techniques that are used at Fibonacci Smile made a big difference for me as well. Rather than a huge needle akin to those used in WWI they use a thin white unassuming ball point pen shaped injector with a small needle. Dr. Milner was calm, professional and always alert for any slight motion from me that I needed anything. I was asked numerous times if I was alright , if I was holding up ok or if I needed to get up for any reason. Just the thought that I wasn’t just patient number 561 to Dr. Milner was wonderful! A dentist that would rather stop everything to let me take a breather if I needed it! I didn’t know they existed. His smile and obvious love for dentistry put me at ease and I was able to know that he had it all under control and all I had to do was sit back and relax. This wasn’t my last visit but I was no longer trembling when I walked in the door or panicked when I though about the next time. And when I left my smile was *new* and beautiful! What a blessing. I will always recommend Fibonacci Smile to everyone I know in need of dental work or a cleaning or even just a day at the spa.

Thank you for an extra dose of confidence and a winning smile!

Jen Welch

Just like bubba

2009-04-25T16:43:00.000-07:00

On day I found this at the back door. She does look so proud of herself doesn't she? She wanted to be just like Ty, her big bubba. It's an interesting thing. She loves what he loves and no matter how wacky it looks, if bubba wears it she wants to wear it. How much more should we be like Christ? He came to earth and preached a lighter load and sacrifice and for us to be like Him. Joyfully.

Easter fun ~ Welch style

2009-04-20T13:06:00.000-07:00

Well, when my girls see the sun peeking out through the clouds they think warm and then . . . they think swimsuits. That does sound a bit mild for what actually happens. They scream for joy, sprint up the stairs two at a time and fling their clothes on the floor and grab the nearest suit. How could you resist joining in if you were a little girl, too? Well on Easter we had our GREAT friends the Byington's over and at the first sun break Emma and her friend Alexis came out in this ~ acting goofy. All of the children and the Byington girls had so much fun and really , I did have TONS of Blog worthy pictures, but these were by far the funnest ones and the ones that de-bunnified the day.

Easter moring we left here for our church's 9am brunch Nolen and Ty in their slacks and tie's and the girls fully Spring-y in their beautiful dresses and got home around 1:30. When the Byington's got here it was full speed ahead and they skated and played and ATE all day and by the time the Bible was read and the psalms were sung we saw this on the couch. It was so cute. It took Michelle, Scott and I to get the girls out to the car since there was no waking them up. I found myself heaving a huge sigh of relief after they left, since it was this time last year that we found out about Emma's heart condition and subsequent surgery. I was thrilled to have Easter over and this year with out a *glitch*. Just lots of Joy at our renewed thankfulness for our Savior who died for our sins.

Not in your wildest dreams

2009-04-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

My dear BLOG readers, I know that you are hoping that I will post a pic of all of our worldly possessions lounging in our back yard, but . .. no. Not happening. I didn't even take a picture. You guys are great, and I love you ((hug)). But not that much. I will however post a pic (maybe)of the end result. A clean and happy backyard with smiling kiddo's and no CLUTTER. Just a soon as I can. Hope you all have a great Easter!!! For now Nolen in his River Regents hoodie. Yes, he makes it looks that good :)

Snappy NEW look

2009-04-06T17:59:00.000-07:00

I thought it was time for an update to my look. What do you think? As I looked outside at my children in their swimsuits and my hubby out there with his electric saw makin' stuff I though it was about time. We are officially on Break!!!! And to start it off right m hubby was up at 5:30am and off to town by 8am to get supplies to begin the project list. No, he is not a sleeper inner (I did, though, staunchly chastise him for not at least TRYING to sleep in at least a LITTLE bit!). I will try and post some pic's of the upcoming week for those interested. Right now we have a million things in our back yard and the sheds are completely cleaned out. We are gearing up for summer!! The children were begging us to turn on the sprinklers in the middle of the process so you know they have the bug.

Life at light speed

2009-03-26T08:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was one of those days that went well . . . in the morning. Woke up, made muffins, so far so good. Kids off to school kiss hubby. Great! How long before we have to leave for bible study? Well, we may as well go even though we have so much time, we'll take the scenic route and then do some major pre-teaching before we get there.
After school, though . . . I was expecting hubby to bring the 2 oldest home, but with in the bounds of Mock Trial week things change and life can unexpectedly get slapped into another demention. So I woke up Ty and Nadia from naps at 2:30, and carried them crying to the car . . . that wouldn't start. Scott was in the throws of practice, so I had to ask our neighbor (who was fortunately home) if he would be able to help me start our car, and do you know how to use jumper cables!?!? Because I don't. ergh!! Yes?! Oh GOOD. The car started and we were off to get Nolen and Emma. We got to school and as Ty was rolling the window down to tell Nolen we had to leave it broke (WOULD NOT ROLL UP). Did I mention that we are driving over the passes on Friday? TODAY? And they were closed because of avalanche control yesterday? And it's snowing like crazy? Scott couldn't fix it, so we took off for the dealership, almost forgot Mia who was in the bathroom. Seriously. Noone even noticed she wasn't in the car with all of the hubbub, fortunately she popped out of the school just as we were pulling out. Then it started to rain (of course). Driving to the dealership Nolen and I answered the question "Why can't we roll the window up? I'm cold." Seriously about a million times, and I kid you not the dealership is maybe 10 minutes from the school. When we got there the gal behind the desk quoted me at $48 just to check it. Then the children and I piled into the waiting room and I have no idea what was on the TV, but it wasn't even suitable in a bar! In downtown Bremerton. AT NIGHT! Panicked I tried to get the children to look at the receptionist while she fumbled for the remote and landed on the disney channel. Which though fine in the morning is full of selfish disobedient tween's in the afternoon, ugh. Then she gave the children popcorn. Titus filled up water cups and set them single file for all of us on the window sill. Nadia pooped and I had no diapers. As you remember I was just planning a quick trip to pick up the children and bring them home. So I called my dear friend Michelle (master sock finder extrordinaire) and she drove over so I could change Nadia before she got a diaper rash. They finished the window and we got home at 4:30. Only $160 poorer. Ugh.
What was it the Gandalf told Bilbo about all of that dangers that could happen to you by merely stepping foot out of the front door? Everyone went outside to play and I fixed dinner. When Scott got home at 7:30 we all looked at him like he just stepped foot off Mars! What are you doing home, we though you wouldn't be home till late? It is late, it's 7:30. Eek. He went up to tell the little ones a story, and half way through the story of Troy (they were staring at him with blank stares and I think I heard crickets in the background) he switched gears to prince Titus and the princesses Nadia and Mia who were soo beautiful and needed to be rescued. Prince Titus rode his milk white steed, etc... and the day ended well. We tried to stay up and watch Americal Idol (Go Danny!!) but I fell asleep. C'est la vie. This was a weird day, BUT God is good and it all ended on an up note. If you would like to see our *NEW * window button, viewings will be daily by appointment only and I promise to give you a good deal :)

Goin' to grammma's house!!!

2009-03-07T07:19:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago we went to my parents house in the woods and had a belated Christmas. As you can tell frpm these pic's our kiddo's were THRILLED, and as you can also tell if you peek into the background of this one, it was a white Christmas in February.

We stopped at our favorite latte stand and while we sipped our coffee to Silverdale, the children enjoyed their suckers. Notice Nadia with stick only, "where's the sucker?". On Tuesdays before choir our rally cry is "One .99 cent lattee and 6 suckers, please!" . The children couldn't be more happy. Ahh to be a kid again. . .

Here's Nadia. I wish this BLOG had sound effects. You would hear cute baby happiness and snorting, along with much bouncing and joyfulness everytime she got into this car. My parents have had this car since my sis was born, and it has been through all of my children racing it around (and around!!!) their house. Love it.

And, here is my mom. Such a fun and loving grandma and a wonderful and helpful mom. She is someone that I will always ask for advice because I know that in every situation she always wants what's best for me even if it's a tough call on her part. But on the other side she always thinks the best of me and encourages me to not lose heart! She is my biggest fan and cheerleader and I am so thankful for her!!!
God was so good to give me such a beautiful and kind mom!

The Grandmas and the Grandpas

2009-02-06T09:09:00.000-08:00

Pre-teaching and the moral reason why have been all the rage in the Welch house as of late, so on our way to the grocery store Wednesday before bible study Titus and I had this very interesting conversation:

ME: Titus, do you know why you shouldn't scream at the grocery store today?

(This had become a pattern I was trying to avoid. He was getting so excited about the car cart and the free cookies and all of the excitement of being out that there were becoming more and more instances of random 'shouts of JOY unto the Lord' at Safeway.)

Ty:*blink*blink* (imagine crickets chirping in the background at this point of the conversation)

Me:If you scream you might scare the grandmas and the grandpas and we want to be more careful of the grandmas and the grandpas.

Ty: YES! We should not scream, we should give the Grandmas and the Grandpas skateboards and bikes!

Me: Ty it's a lot easier for you to ride skateboards and bikes than the grandmas and the grandpas, they aren't very steady on their feet and they might fall and hurt themselves, but it was a good idea. Instead of skateboards and bikes we should say,"Hello!" kindly to the grandmas and the grandpas or "How are you doing today?". Can you think of something else you can say?

At this point Nadia who had been listening and dying to interact with us finally let out a robust"Yeah!".

Ty: No, baby Nadia we don't want to scream, you might scare the grandmas and the grandpas. we need to say (bashfully), "Hi. I missed you." to the grandmas and the grandpas. Picture the 3 year old boy equivalent to the batting of eyebrows.

Nadia:*blink*blink*

Me:****Laughing****

Love my job.

Hey Nonny Nonny!

2009-02-04T21:07:00.000-08:00

Here is my darling Nonny in the tub. She is so sweet and these faces are probably some of her most adorable. She is 16 months old and a JOY to our family. She loves to watch doggies at the park acrossed the street from the back of the couch and her favorite word is, "MO!!" which she says regularly to Titus (her boosom friend) to keep him in line. Notice that she has no hair, just like the other children at this age. With Emma I was afraid I would never get to put cute things in her hair!

Yes, she is drinking from the faucet - too cute!!!

Tyisms or how do you know if your 3 year old has watched Mulan twice in the last week.

2009-02-04T20:58:00.000-08:00

Ty, Nadia and I went to Target to pick up some odds and ends the other day and as we were walking into the store I asked Ty if he was ready. He responded with, "Yep, Lets kick some Hunny-buns!!". Yes, folks he does always keep it intesesting.

Normal life at Hedge Parke

2009-01-30T16:28:00.000-08:00

Well, after the last couple of posts I though it might be good to let you all in on a great little secret that I didn't realize I was keeping! That Wendesday really was an abnormal day around here. On a normal day I wake up between 5 and 6 and get coffee ready and get the kitchen cleaned up (mostly because if I stop I will fall asleep). I then start breakfast and at about 6:15 Scott and I wake up the children and we all eat breakfast and then Nolen, Emma and Mia get dressed for School. They leave at 7:15 and after we wave good-bye at the window Ty and Nadia take a nice warm bath and they get dressed. Our morning routine includes laundry and general house clean up. We read stories and Nadia takes a short morning nap. At 10:45 we head out to pick up Miss Mia from kindergarten, run some errands since we are in town anyway and come home for lunch. Everyone gets cleaned up and we pop down for an afternoon siesta. At 4 I start dinner and at 5 Nolen, Emma and My hunky hubby come rollin' home and . . .It's dinner time! Bath's, showers and jammies and it's to the couch for some family time and then the kiddo's are off to bed. Hubby and I have a few hours together before we then drift off to sleep. Not to thrilling, and there are days that are OBVIOUSLY not like this, but by and large we have a really wonderfully relaxing life. I love my kiddo's and I thought that 5 would be more hairy than it is. I think my hubby's laid-backness is rubbing off on us all! Have a wonderful day and remember to hug your hubby and give him a great big kiss the next time you see him. God is good!

Part 2

2009-01-29T07:41:00.000-08:00

So, after my cup of tea . . .
Emma slept on and off for the rest of the afternoon minus the parts where she was crying because of the immense pain she was in and I couldn't figure out why. She was complaining about her stomach and I thought it was just the virus she had giving her cramps, something that Ibuprofen won't help. I checked her over at around 2:30 and saw that her ear was . . . DRAINING!!! Poor Emma. She was in major pain and her other ear was now getting into the act and just as I was getting dinner on the stove she woke up and was in so much pain and completely miserable that at 4:pm I just turned off the burners and grabbed the kiddo's and left. I didn't even have time to grab my phone or call Scott and tell him where we were going to be when he got home. I stopped off at the East Wenatchee clinic to see if the could just look at her and give us a quick prescription, since I KNEW it was bad. Well after going in a waiting a bit (Emma with quiet tears of pain running down her face) we were told they were so busy it would be quicker for us to go to the Wenatchee clinic. So back in the car we went and off. We got there and watched some of the new Charlotte's Web to distract us. Emma was in so much pain she cried and laid on my lap. Ty on the other hand made another 3 year old friend and they ran back and forth in the waiting room the whole time. Nadia was really sleepy, but also made a friend, a 8 year old boy that must have reminded her of Nolen because she kept calling him "Bubba". Too cute! One of our favorite nurses saw Emma and bumped her to the front of the line and rushed her in giving her some Ibuprofen and a room. We waited some more and when Dr. came in he was almost in tears. At this point she looked totally miserable and he prescribed some Amoxicillin and Tylenol with codine right after looking at her. So what was the verdict? 101.5* fever after the Ibuprofen and a double ear infection and a virus to boot. No school for the rest of the week, but she's no longer contagious - yea! We piled back into the car and went home. I still had to go pick up the meds after I dropped the children at home with Scott so by the time I got home it was almost 7 and we hadn't eaten dinner yet. Fortunately I was at home just long enough to turn the burners back on (remember, I had to leave the food on the stove?) and when I got home everything was cooked I just had to mash the potatoes and we were ready to eat. The up side was that I got a $30 gift card for Safeway for bringing in a new prescription! Woo hoo! Emma was feeling so much better after we got that first dose of codine and anti-biotics in her that she and Mia stayed up and talked for awhile since they hadn't seen each other all day. Mia (on the other hand) had a wonderful day with Mrs. Tracy going out to lunch and baking cookies.

Not quite like I planned it

2009-01-28T12:42:00.001-08:00

Have you ever had those days that you had planned out from the evening before and in your mind it all flowed like a ribbon of chocolaty fudge down a mountain of vanilla ice cream, but wait . . . In the morning you realize that what you though was ice cream wasn't and wait, that's not fudge! Ok, so last night I pictured myself making monkey bread for breakfast , Emma better and going to school (after 2 days home sick) and Ty, Nadia and I going to bible study after stopping off to get snacks. Not quite in the plan for today, actually not AT ALL in the plan for today! I was way too pooped last night to start the Monkey Bread and so we had cold cereal, Emma was still sick (in fact worse, as you will later see), and on our way to pick up snacks the car died (as in wouldn't even turn over). We had to call Scott to come and help us with the car as we were stranded in the Safeway parking lot. Since this is becoming a trend (the bad kind, like stirrup pants ...yeessh) He asked me to take the van to Les Schwab and see if they could help. Has anyone ever taken a 1 year old, a 3 year old BOY and a sick 7 year old girl to Les Schwab? Not good, don't do it - call a sitter! The popcorn looks like a lovely idea and the tires look like they would be fun for your 3 year old to count, but if they offer you balloons, do not take them even if your 7 year old says,"Yes please, sir." with out being prompted and the guy looks at you like your daughter is the most angelic being he has encountered. All will end poorly. You will regret it and curse the very floor of the balloon making factory they imerged from. Just a warning.
They were able to fix us up and in a mere 3 hours (left the house at 8:30 back home at 11:30) we were home and had wasted 3 perfectly good hours with nothing to show for it, but a couple of hungry toddlers and a sick little girl. We decided to cut our losses and watch a move while we ate our lunch and then I realized that Emma has an ear infection! As is the norm for our children there is now puss running out of her ear and down her cheak. Ugh! I added some meds and put all three of the children to sleep and now it's 1pm. Time for some tea! Maybe we'll have Monkey bread tomorrow . . .

Let rise until double . . .

2009-01-16T09:34:00.000-08:00

I found a great cookbook recently filled to the brim with heirloom recipes, and as I was making kolaches this morning I began to ponder how much bread making reminds me of parenting. The ingredients are many and even if you follow them to a T you might not end up with more than a flat thick blob. Mix all of the ingredients together with a loving and firm hand excited to see the end and anticipating how things are going to turn out and humming a tune as you go. I have see so many parents that started out with too much salt or too much yeast and have had to alter all of the other ingredients in order to still come out with bread at all. There are times at our house when a call out of, "More flour!" is in order because too much butter was added.
There are so many batches of bread that I have made that I thought went well in the mixing and dough phase and was excited to eat warm with butter, but when I came back an hour later I discovered that they had not risen at all, let alone "until double" .
As we love encourage and care for our children in the Lord we have to remember to keep a clear view on how they are doing emotionally as well as physically before we send them out to deal with things on their own. Are they taking on more then they can chew? Are they having more freedoms than they can handle? Then they have not risen until double. Wait, don't push them into the oven. You will end up with an unpalatable brick that can't be fixed. When bread has sufficiently risen until double you can push your finger into it and it won't deflate. Then you can pop it out, shape it into a loaf and into the oven it goes. Happily baking and gaining that crust that we all love.

The last pictures of the Welch kiddo's in 2008

2009-01-05T10:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Mia with her new boots dressed all in pink

Ty Owie lookin fine in his hat

Nolie and Nonnie

Emmers with her new haircut a la Mother

Happy 2009

2009-01-05T09:51:00.000-08:00

2009 !!

2009-01-05T09:23:00.000-08:00

Here we are again! I hope you are having a VERY happy 2009 so far. We rang out the new year at a New Years party with some friends. We didn't get home until around 2, so we slept late the next day and it has been so low key for us ever since. My hubby has been working from home and I have been trying to reconfigure our house so that it works for our family.

So far this year we have torn apart and reorganized 2 bedrooms and our living room family room and dining room. We have taken numerous toys and clothes to Goodwill and filled about 10 BBGB's (big black garbage bags, my hubby's favorite!) . When Scott has some time off it is time to reorganize, and toss and repurpose. We have been finding some great items at Good will to help us, and have been having so much fun treasure hunting. We also decided to dive into a more organized cleaning schedule that does not involve me cleaning the whole house every day so I am hoping to follow more closely to the fly lady's schedule and take it in bite sized chunks. I love the fly lady cleaning site.

We are starting back to school in 2 days and I am really going to miss all the time I have had with my kiddos. I know a lot of moms that are crazy when their kids are home and can't wait to get them back to school, but I'm not excited about sending them back. Except for the great one on one time with Ty and Nadia I just miss Nolen, Emma and Mia too much. They have a great school and wonderful teachers, but since Nolen and Emma stay with Scott after school and get their homework done there I don't get to see them until 5 when they all rush in the door. Then dinner, then clean up, then jammies, then family worship, then bed! WHEW!!

Last night we got a pile of snow and so today I can imagine that means LOTS of playing out in it and hot cocoa and fun around here. We do have some errands to do so I hope it thaws out a little bit.

OH Yeah! How do you like my new BLOG design? I changed a bit to make it match, what do you think? I was hoping to have a new pink background, but couldn't find any I liked, so this will have to do.

Harp Concert and parctice

2008-12-17T09:18:00.000-08:00

My beautiful girls at the harp concert. They were so pretty in their Christmas dresses!

Emma practicing (in her River Academy uniform) Silent Night under Jill Whitman's watchful eye. notice her intense concentration. :}

Harp Harp Harp!!!

2008-12-17T08:21:00.000-08:00

This Advent has been filled with much in the way of harp preparation. We have attended a beautiful harp concert at the Free Methodist church by the group Noel! and loved it. Emma and Mia who are taking the harp right now from Jill Whitman, were inspired and loved it as well. Little Mia was lulled to sleep during the last 2 songs, it was adorable. This week we have been to harp practice twice already and we are going again today. Emma is playing Silent Night for the River Academy Christmas program and when asked how she was doing yesterday she told a friend she was "a bit rusty". Which is really funny coming from her, a 7-year-old. Like the rest of us she gets lulled to sleep and entranced by the beauty of the harp's melody, unfortunately she still needs to play! I have a picture of her practicing that I am hoping to put up here, hopefully I'll get to it.

I am so happy that our children are taking music lessons. Music has been shown time and time again to encourage us and lighten our mood and even to give rest to weary souls. They love to sing, so the next step was playing. Nolen is taking guitar lessons and has come really far in the short time he has been playing. Scott always wished he would have been given the opportunity to take lessons, so when Nolen asked we jumped on it and called a friend to teach him.Even though we could have waited until he was older the times that he spends practicing and in lessons helps him so much. In his lessons he needs to be respectful and to learn to accept correction and to take easily the words, "No Nolen, you're wrong, you need to play this way instead." and to a 9 year old boy these are words he need to be comfortable with and not offended by. We wanted to choose something with the girls that they could use to both calm themselves and others, and use later on in their lives to make money and to glorify God. Here is the perfect option! They can play the Harp for weddings and events or for fundraising concerts for missionaries at a church. They are also falling in the above category as well for correction. WE are very blessed to have a world renowned harp teacher here that loves children and is patient with them as well.

Right now it's snowing like crazy, all of those little sticking flakes that cause all the trouble, but make everything look so beautiful and make the perfect snowballs. I heard that we are supposed to get between 5 and 7 inches today, yikes. I am not a very confident snow driver so that makes me very nervous. I did put Scott's 80lb punching bag in the back of the van to add weight, so hopefully that will help. Yes, the front tires are still touching the ground. Have a happy snowy day!!

Now for something completely different

2008-12-11T08:02:00.000-08:00

"Each day the number of requests we receive normally outnumber the time allotted for the day. My experience confirms that if I fail to attack my week with theologically informed planning, my week attacks me with an onslaught of the urgent. And I end up devoting more time to the urgent than the important.

And at the end of the week there is a low-grade guilt and dissatisfaction in my soul, because I’ve neglected to do the truly important stuff. I want to have as few weeks like this as possible in whatever time remains for me to serve the Savior. I’m thinking you do as well."
~ CJ Mahaney taken from his blog

This quote struck me particularly because of the directness of it. How much of your day is consumed with the urgent and not with what you sat down and specifically planned out to do and to accomplish for the day, week, year? Why? Why is it so hard to just say, "No, I can't do that I have only a short amount of time in my life and I have to devote it to the work that I have planned and prayed out to do." Why is that guilt even there? Planning is a crucial and vital part to our days. Scott and I have begun to realize how much more we get done, and how much more unified we are but just simply sitting down and planning out our days in the morning before the children get up and we are in the river again. It gives us the lifeline we need to get where we need to go and the map to get there quickly.

For the longest time I mocked and scoffed at the idea of a meal plan, especially those that spanned longer than a week at a time. I felt like they were compartmentalizing their time tooo much and not allowing for any creativity in the realm of cooking (which I love). Consequently my life was consumed in the evenings with what we were going to have for dinner and making sure I had on hand what I would need for any meal I felt the desire to create when the muse descended. This was making me crazy and grumpy and costing us more than the allotted food budget. So one day I decided to try a meal plan, and in my usual fashion I jumped in with both feet and made a 6-week meal plan. I have been so happy with the peace and ease it has given me. This area is now one that I consider a no-brainer, meal plans are definitely much easier. I have figured out meal plans around the rigors of mock trial season, Christmas, our Easter liturgy and our daily evening schedule. It has also saved us vast amounts of money on food and almost eliminated our food waste. I have been able to give my family a more well balanced diet and consequently my hubby who was on the verge of teetering off the high end of the Triglyceride and cholesterol scale is now on the low end of normal and doing great. My point is that even in this small area God is blessing me richly by my planning and prayer and I know that He intends greater blessings to come.

During the Christmas season and specifically this time of Advent leading up to Christmas when we are all doing our shopping for Christmas presents how could this not be more relevant? What are you buying for your children and why? Have you been sucked in to buy that *new* great thing that you saw at Target thinking they would just LOVE it? Or did you sit down with you hubby and DECIDE what to buy before you even set out? Will you tree be chocked full with a bunch of little gifts that you hope they like and will use for longer than a week, or did you consider them and what one thing they will truly use and love and remember? Were you struck with the urgent desire to buy that great thing that you saw that will just end up as next summer's garage sale fodder? I remember a few years back those ugly Furby's, now honestly. What about the Tickle Me Elmo? Who really bought that because they saw the joy and peace it would bring to the aroma of their home? This is a case of being sucked in to the fads of the day and not planning.

The day is only 24 hours long, and the week 7 days, and the month around 30, and the year a mere 365 days. Yet, each one of us has a task to complete within that time span. Not all of the request on our time are for us. Every day I am asked to do numerous things that are all good and wonderful, but that doesn't mean that I should do all of them. There are things that I just do not need to accomplish. There are so many patients and only so many doctors. Should they feel guilty because they can't possibly see them all? No, that would be foolish and a waste of time. They should be thankful for the ones that are brought to them and work hard to help them completely. There are so many great books and yet impossible to read them all. Should we give up? NO! Read away! But that is why we need to prayerfully consider and plan our days out and not get swept away and waste the life that God has given us. We have many opportunities here to do and to learn many things to teach our children and to provided for others to teach them. I have an aunt that had 5 boys. Each of them was athletic. None of them are professional athletes, but all are hard workers and have accomplished a lot (even though the oldest one is a youngish 32). My aunt and uncle saw that sports would help them teach diligence and hard work, their goal was not to raise a football star or another Michael Phelps. The sports were tools and decisions to put them in were made after debating their usefulness to the larger goal at hand.

My hubby and I always shake out heads when we hear someone say that one of their children was an accident. How could that happen? Are they so completely unaware of the cause of pregnancy? No, they are living a live completely unplanned and unthoughtout, and because of their lifestyle they have once again been caught staring into the headlights of their life, coming at them like a semi.

Make prayerful decisions and do not be swept away with wasted days filled with the urgent. Enjoy your life and bless those around you. Make schedules and plans, but use them as your tools, do not be brought under their weight and domination. They are your servants you are not theirs. You are Christ's and His burden is LIGHT. Now go do the important things and go to sleep tonight satisfied in your soul and not feeling guilty in the slightest.

Advent readings etc. . . .

2008-12-09T14:04:00.000-08:00

WEll, our Advent readings are going along really well, and we are enjoying our Christmas season. Scott and I got the spontaneous opportunity to go out on a date during the week, which was fun. WE went to the Applewood grill, our new favorite. Scott just likes it for the ribs and the 'knuckle dragger' beer, I just love it. I like the variety on the menu and the festive atmosphere and the fun drinks. Thus it is the perfect place for us on a date. Our tree is up and decorated and yesterday we made cookies (snikerdoodles) and white chocolate drizzled oranges. Both were a big hit. The children were asking for them for breakfast, I guess they were the first things on their minds this morning.
Today the girls have choir practice and it's also the day we pick up the McEachran boys, all of it happen's during the dinner rush. I have dubbed Tuesdays as our Crock pot day. We have had many different things from soups and stews to roasts and salsa chicken, but today is a meatball day. It's funny how the easiest things are sure to thrill the whole family.
Oh, I forgot to mention! Yesterday I knitted a hat! Ahhhh. But, more on that later. Have a great day!

Advent day 4

2008-12-05T10:18:00.001-08:00

I love this photo!!

2008-12-04T15:50:00.000-08:00

This is such a great photo from our Poulsbo adventures at the beginning of the summer. How many people have a picture of their kiddos hugging a genuine Viking? I'd like to say, . . . not many. I love my little Norski kids!

Better?

2008-12-03T13:53:00.003-08:00

What do you all think of the new layout? Let me know!!!

Advent day 3

2008-12-03T08:15:00.000-08:00

Today we read John 1:18
No man has seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him.

Here is the link to our Advent readings go to the bottom of the page and just click on Advent readings.

For our family time we all grabbed a mug of hot cocoa and our grandma blankets and snuggled up while Scott read from the Hobbit. I love it. Happy Day 3 everyone!

Advent day 2

2008-12-01T22:39:00.000-08:00

Today we started out the morning with our pancakes on the fine China and sipped our orange juice out of wine glasses. Our children ran down to the table to the sight of small beautiful packages awaiting them. We read some scripture and talked about why we celebrate a physical Christmas and not and ethereal one. Why are we inundated with chocolate and lights and good food and friends and SINGING?!?!?! Because with out a physical birth of a savior and a physical death for sin we would all be without cause to rejoice. Praise God! So for our Advent treat we decorated out kiddo's rooms with the Christmas music a-blaring.

Advent Day 1

2008-12-01T22:26:00.000-08:00

On day one we kind-of cheated. We kicked off our Sabbath day with a major bang and went out to Applebees with my mother-in-law. The children all had so much fun and it really started us out on the right foot. PLUS we usually have a big feast on the Sabbath and with the !st day of advent on it's heels we had to make it Extra big. On Sunday we started our day off with our Advent reading and a big breakfast and then had a great day with grandma doing fun stuff with her. It has been so nice to have her with us!!

Our week in review

2008-11-30T21:21:00.000-08:00

Well the pre-Thanksgiving weekend started out great with hubby and kiddo's getting out of school for the week, and my amazing mother-in-law arriving for a fun and relaxing week before Thanksgiving. We had all sorts of great things planned and were hoping to really spoil her and fill her tank for the return to Florida. Friday was the big feast day at the River and an assembly and the children ALL loved having grandma there with them to celebrate. Then mom and I went to a Pampered chef party for some adult time and had a lot of fun. Well, then things began to unravel. That morning, EARLY Saturday morning Nolen began throwing up, then Nadia then Mia, Emma, Scott, and Sharon. It was miserable. On Sunday night I slept in my clothes with just a light blanket on and my glasses on ready to jump up. I was up numerous times helping my poor family and running them back and forth to the bathroom, changing them and their bedding and being on guard as to not miss something really bad. Nolen was better and I thought Ty and Nadia were fine so we went for a walk with the dog at the park, all went well so instead of going in and exposing ourselves to the stomach flu we went to the store to pick up some rations. Well as soon as we got to the car Ty started throwing up. And when we got home I gave Nadia something to drink and she started throwing up again! Yowza! It was crazy around here for a couple of days. I never got whatever it was, thankfully. We are still dealing with some sort of head cold, but other than that all is well.
Thanksgiving day was a low key and relaxing day as we were all exhausted, but pretty well recovered. Scott grilled salmon and asparagus, I made a feta and blueberry salad, mashed Parmesan red potatoes and baked apples and Nolen made the Challah and we spent dessert with our dear friends the Bowes! It was really nice especially because I LOVE my hubby's grilled salmon!!! Any day with that is a good day. At dinner we talked about all of the things we were thankful for. Well, we had told the children that we were going to do this and we wanted it to be a well spring rather than a kinked garden hose, so we asked them to make lists earlier in the day of about 10 things they were thankful for. Well, Nolen made his list and then memorized it as not to have to worry about all of that pesky paper (very Nolen), Emma wrote out 10 (in about 30 different colors along with illustrations) and then ran down the stairs upset because she had way more than 10 and was asking if it was OK for her to "do more" . Then after she finished she decided to put it to music and sing it. Then she sat down to play a harp accompaniment to it (VERY Emma). Mia worked sooo hard and actually wrote out her's!!! She is only 5 so this took her awhile, but she pressed forward and and did it (very Mia). Ty chimed in at dinner that he was very thankful for Jesus dying on the cross and sharks and fishies. Nadia spoke up with her ever present, "Yea!", which is sooo cute by the way.
I hope you all had a great day and enjoyed your family and friends!

Great Family photo's

2008-11-23T23:09:00.000-08:00

I am finally including the link to our family photo's that were taken by Joy Far earlier this fall. she did an amazing job and we were so happy with them! Check them out!!
http://albums.phanfare.com/4944566

Retro Christmas

2008-11-19T12:53:00.000-08:00

I wanted to find some more authentically Americana pieces for Christmas. And this is what I found! I love it. For those of you who know me, there are even stains from Family Christmases past on the table cloth!! I can envision many-a happy Christmas dinner past around my pretty tablecloth. I can't wait to add our own gravy and coffee and wine stains to it -OH marvelous!! And to my dear friend michelle - - RED BALL FRINGE!!!! Ahhhhhh . . . .

Ty's comfort

2008-11-19T09:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was putting Nadia on the potty, and as I set her on she began to cry (I think it was cold). Well as soon as this happened Ty knew what the problem was and how to help, what a good brother. He said in a rather comforting tone, "Don't worry baby Nadia, the sharks won't jump up and bite your bun!". What a great friend. This is a great picture of family :)

cinnamon rolls

2008-11-19T09:41:00.000-08:00

Here is a pic of what the cinnamon rolls looked like. NUMMMMM . . . I need to make some more!

My Buddy

2008-11-19T09:35:00.000-08:00

Last week we had a minor catastrophe that could easily have become a MAJOR Problem. Our washing machine spontaneously ejected a vital part and started gushing water. So here I am with 5 small children and no washing machine. I called SEARS to get a repair man to come out to fix the problem and encountered any number of issues with the whole procedure (don't even get me started on the huge problem of outsourcing customer-service jobs to other countries, and the language barrier, ergh). The earliest they could get someone out was a week and a half later - Yikes. Now, I usually do at least 3 loads a day. As I began to do the math I was getting a bit disheartened. 21 loads of laundry was more than I could handle, not to mention the at that point I would be buying new underwear by the boatloads to keep up. The last time I had a washer issue and had to go to the laundromat it took 10 washers and 10 dryers and $40. Not to mention that Emma was sick (throwing up of-course) and I had to manage to keep Ty safe and Nadia contained during that whole process. Though edifying, I'm sure - not my idea of a relaxing afternoon. Well in the mean time hubby needed white tee shirts so a load needed to be done somehow. Well after acessing the situation and reviewing all of the possible alternatives I decided to just bite the bullet and wash a load, gushing water and all. At first I planned on just having Ty watch a movie or play so that I could focus on keeping the water off of the carpet and keep potential disaster to a minimum. I had it all figured out. I would start the washer and when I saw the water begin to gush I would just open the door to the back yard and sweep the water out (feverishly). Well when Ty saw this (water on the floor and mother poised with broom) he wanted to join in! So we had a great time together as he learned to work alongside me (with his own broom, seen here) and instead of being in the way and making a bigger mess he was a BIG help and now I have the cleanest basement floor ever!! Later my hubby called and managed to get us on some sort of waiting list to be called by ... someone. The next day the head honcho of the service department in Spokane called and the repairman came out the following day. Well, to me the problem was really cut and dry. The spring that holds the boot taught against the drum came out (along with the screw that tightens it) so the way to fix it would be to put it back in, right? Well, apparently the obvious solution to the repairman had to do with ordering a part and something about hell on earth and it being back ordered. Yowza... I stood silently trying not to take him by the cheeks and scream, "Listen, if 2 parts came out of the washer and those 2 parts are in good working order, then doesn't it make complete sense to you that the best idea would be to simply put them in and not worry about another mysterious part that does not exist!?!!?" BUT, alas.... Instead I simply said, "Well, see what you can do." I then went upstairs to pray like mad. After awhile I was either needing to go hover over him and watch his every move to make sure he was actually doing all he could to put it back together or something else - on the constructive and less annoying side. So I made cinnamon rolls. They were very distracting and they turned out great. The repairman had to take the entire front off of the washer, I just didn't go down. But he got it all together and it now works wonderfully, no leaks!
So when hubby came home this is the picture he saw. Happy wife with a fixed washing machine, warm smells of delicious cinnamon rolls wafting through the house and CLEAN white tee's for work, not to mention the impeccably clean laundry room floor! From his perspective a great day had by all. Life is funny. God is good.

Thankfulness Catch up :)

2008-11-14T15:11:00.000-08:00

Alright, here goes
#7 my parents!! They are the greatest, and I am so thankful for all of the wise and practical advice they give. I look around my home and at my children and cannot see more that a square inch that does not have their fingerprint on it. From the Groovy Girl clothes, our slippers, hats scarves, dresses, etc . . . knitted by my mom to the tools and weedeaters filling our garage and sheds to overflowing. We are very blessed by their help and love

#8 my sister!!! She is always thinking of us! I'm not sure if we have made it into her book yet (hint!hint!) and by the way I would really like to see that - how hilarious. She is fun and funny and not bound by her limitations - BUT DO NOT OFFER TO ORDER HER A FRAPPACCINO (sp)!! I once did and had to walk off the laughter at what she asked me to order, I almost couldn't say it! My kiddo's are so kind and generous to anyone disabled, thanks to her. They have gone up and requested rides on peoples wheelchairs, though so I guess there are things to watch out for. Too comfortable and all.

#9 My mother-in-law! How funny is that? Do people actually say that? I personally love my mother-in-law. She is kind, generous, loving and fun. She LOVES her grandkids and just thrives on their antics. Whenever I tell her the latest daring-do by Sir Titus she is so good at putting it all into perspective, and reminding me that Scott was just like that and now look at him!! I usually leave our conversations with a smile on my face and a deeper love for my family.

#10 The River Academy, yes one of my favorite places on earth. I love to hear that loud rambunctious chanting of Bible verses echoing through that halls, to see Nolen and his friends running at breakneck speed out to the playground to play football or some other high intensity rule related game (Nolen is our rule-monger) with huge smiles on their faces. I love to see Emma and her friends going from room to room after school asking to help the teachers clean up their rooms, sharpen pencils and whatever else needs to be done. I love to see Mia bounding out of class to see me and give me a HUGE hug and to tell me she misses me after only a mere 3 hours away. I love to be in a place where my husband is respected for who he is, what he contributes and thanked daily for what he sacrifices to be there. The BEST thing about The River is that God is glorified and Christ is put first. The same teachers that have fun with the students are also not afraid to hold them accountable and to talk to them about what really matters. School is merely a training ground for the Christ centered life. And, yes a happy place for my hubby to be the all time quarterback at recess.

#11 Flu shots and our amazing access to medical care here in the US. A couple years ago Scott got the flu. Not Gastroenteritis but the real genuine flu. He almost died. It was extremely scary for me, the children were all to small to realize what happened, but with him in the hospital and losing weight daily I felt the full weight of a life with out my best friend. Everyone that came in contact with him had to wear a mask and couldn't touch his skin without gloves. I couldn't even sleep in the same bed with him for a week afterwards. When he was finally released I was left with a husband that weighed nearly 30 pounds less than he did when he went in, not a good weight loss regime. Ever since then we have all got the flu vaccine. If it protects us from the current strain, great -wonderful!!! If not, at least it gives our bodies another shot at learning to fight off a nasty bug. And it gives us a peace of mind that is worth more than the co-pay.

Happy birthday to Scott!!

2008-11-13T09:36:00.000-08:00

Here is the hilarious picture of Scott and his 5 beautiful children (if I do say so myself) at Applebee's for his birthday. I was really there, but as happens with most mom's, sorry no pictures.
We had a great time and laughed a lot. The children consider Scott's birthday as one of the MAJOR holidays during the year and can't understand why noone else was hoopin' it up!! We started out the exciting evening with flu shots all around and so after school was a mad dash for Dr. Kolde's office to Dr. Milnes office to dinner before it was so late the children were starving. We immediately started dishing out the cherrios (that were orriginally intended for Nadia) and instructed coloring. It all went smoothly and they were soooo GOOD!!! We expect it, but you really never know when you have the little ones in the mix.
I am sooo thankful for this man! Can I say it enough?Not only is he handsome, but he loves me, works hard, can't wait to come home, and not only teaches but loves the kiddo's. Oh, and he cleans up the vomit when the kids get sick. The last one is really important, since I cannot do it with out getting sick too and being out of commission for the rest of the day. It is definately a divinely appointed task.
So Cheers for the day, and we hope your was as fun!

Thankfulness #6

2008-11-06T08:24:00.000-08:00

The Tolerance Rant. I LOVE it. This is the most hilarious and true thing on the planet. If you haven't seen it, go there.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_MLUuNKjZU

Thankfulness #5

2008-11-06T08:18:00.000-08:00

Now anyone who know me knows that I hate the rain. I am not talking from a mere single experience in it or seeing it from far away and saying, "ewww", I have been living in Washington state my whole life, and specifically on the peninsula for my first 20 years of life and can say with expert knowledge of the subject at hand and all of it's facets that I hate the rain. BUT!!! Today when we saw that it was raining I put the girls in these ADORABLE rain jackets and look what they did! My little Wenatchee girls are trying to catch raindrops on their tongues! I can now say with a heart full of joy that today I am thankful for the rain! Who wouldn't be with such cuteness as the end result?

Did I mention the part about their hoods? They are definately the cutest girls alive. Confirmed.

Shower pics

2008-11-06T08:08:00.000-08:00

Can you believe they all fit!? amazing. This is definately something to be thankful for, such good friends.

Sue, Michelle and Baby Chelsey.

Bethany, Chelsey and Michelle

What a great sister pic.

Thankfulness #4

2008-11-06T07:57:00.000-08:00

For my dear friends Rachel and Michelle.
We had a shower for Michelle and dear little Chelsey Fay here on Monday and the morning before the shower I had no idea how it would all pull together. Rachel wizzed over here and helped me (or rather I helped HER) get my house up to par and ready for all of the ladies who would come that evening. It was so fun and we had a great time. The shower was so lovely and a good time was had by all. Such fun.

Thankfulness #3

2008-11-06T07:51:00.000-08:00

For the place we are. I love to look out my window and see the park in all of it's fall glory. The leaves are changing and fallllllling, so quickly that you can literally stop and watch a tree go from a full tree of beautiful golden splendor to a bare stick poking out of the ground and pleading with heaven to take it from it's bare misery. Ahhhhh...
I love to see my children playing in the Spring on the play ground and in the Summer in their swimsuits splashing in the puddles left by the sprinklers and in the Fall jumping in the piles of leaves and sledding down the trails in the Winter. Wonderful.

Thankfulness #2

2008-11-02T15:02:00.000-08:00

OK, here is the 2nd thing I am thankful for.
#2 Daylight savings time!!! Who is not thankful for more sleep and actually waking up to light rather than darkness?

BE YE THANKFUL!!!

2008-11-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

There are soo many things to be thankful for, during this time of the year, and especially in the country we are in. I am going to try and post at least one thing that I am thankful for each day for the entire month. I must admit that I am hoping to post MORE than one each day, but if I can say that I am going to post one then all others should be gravy, right?

#1 (drum roll please . . . ) My children and Hubby!!
They are the reason my house is at the same time messy, but fully of laughter and life. With out them life around here would be neat, tidy, dull, and depressing.

There you go, easy as pie! Now I would love to hear what everyone else is thankful for, so chime in!! Hope you have a great day!!

Vive Le Reformation!!

2008-11-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

Here are our 2008 Reformation day pictures. Nolen, Emma, Mia and Scott dressed up in full reformation garb and had a wonderful time. Scott was a scholar (how he pulled this off I have no idea), Nolen was a handsome and brave knight seen below with crest, Emma and Mia were beautiful princesses. They ate a huge feast, jousted, played games and learned about the reformation. It was a funn day and they came home exhausted.

Sir Nolen

Scott, Nadia and Ty at the assembly

Emma and Mia best princess sister friends!!!

A Little Welch update is good for everybody

2008-10-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

Well, since it was indeed quite some time since I update you all on how we are doing I thought you night like some cute August/September photos. Here is Mr. Titus at his 3rd birthday. Complete with swimming trunks and orange Dorito coating.

Here are Nolen Emma, Mia and Scott on their first day of school 2008. Don't they look nice? Did I mention how much I love those uniforms?

Sweet Nadia the morning of her 1st birthday enjoying her first ever birthday donut. I think she ate the filling first. That stuff was even up her nose.

And here is Emma with Mrs. Whitman giving a harp demonstration for Mia's class. Don't they look happy? The harp is such a beautiful instrament.

to funny to miss

2008-10-27T16:42:00.000-07:00

Alright, I found this site while I was blog hopping during my 5 minutes on the computer this afternoon, and I had to put it up for all to see. I know I have had things of this strain happen to me before and you have, too, so I thought a good laugh was in order.
Enjoy!!!

Several years ago, we bought a new house. It is a nice house, and I was a little over-eager to show it off. We were having company over one evening, and I had spent most of the day throwing clutter into the back of closets, hanging "skinny" pictures in strategic places, and making sure the bed linens were crisp. I was flittering around the house, one room to the next, preparing my "image."

Abby and Ellie, sensing my eagerness, decided that they wanted to help me "decorate." They were 3 at the time, and while their intentions were good, they were really more in the way than they were helpful, so I shuffled them into a little space off of my bedroom that I use as a craft closet and I told them to work on it. They were so content to have this little space to design, and I needed to fluff things. It sounded like a good plan.

I checked in on them every few minutes, but as it started getting closer to "company" time, I had to go put on my makeup, so I slipped into the bathroom in search of the right lipstick to impress the guests.

I will look like I have it all together tonight, that's for sure.

They weren't really close friends, so there was a chance I could pull it off.

And they were going to love my style (and, in turn, love me! Isn't that the way the world works?)

Ellie comes and stands beside me, trying to get my attention.

"We made it pwetty, momma."

"Mmm-hmm. I bet you did!" I am nodding like I am listening, but I'm distracted by my own reflection.

"I can't wait to see it." Now for eyeliner.

"We did the stickers." Ellie is smiling. She is really proud of herself.

"Oh, how great! Where's Abbby?"

"She's workin' on it. Wanna see?"

"Oh, baby, I can't. I need to get ready, but thanks so much for your help."

"You don't wanna see it, momma? We were workin' on it. It's so pwetty"

"OK, honey, I'll come see it soon." I dart into the closet and leave her standing there alone in the bathroom. I get dressed and brush past her again.

They kept chasing me around the house while I lit candles and vacuumed. They just wanted my attention, but I had a one track mind. They were so proud of their work and all they wanted was to show it to me, and I was too busy to care. Too wrapped up in myself and my stupid house to listen. Well, God was about to have the last laugh.

I am taking the guests around the house and showing them the layout, kicking any semblance of normalcy under the bed, telling about this and that and who knows what else. The girls are dancing one step behind me because they know that the last stop on the grand tour is the master bedroom and I am going to show off their contribution.

I get to the little door and say something like, "And this is what I use as a craft room...." and before I can finish my sentence, I look into the room.

"We did the stickers, momma!!!" They are dancing around and clapping because they are so deliriously excited that they have thought to decorate with stickers, and the stickers are everywhere.

Only, they aren't "stickers" in the traditional sense.

They are maxi-pads.

And they are everywhere.

They are hanging from the bookshelf, from the windowsill, from my fabric, from my desk. It is a maxi-pad party and it is happening. To me.

That sticky side is no mess, people, because they are hovering from angles previously unattempted by personal products.

And I literally start laughing so hard that my children think it is a response to their genius decorating, and they are laughing and pointing and we all just fall on the ground, because really, what else can you do? You have the perfect blouse, the ideal neighbors, the gold record on the wall.....and NONE of it matters. It is completely negated by the fact that this door just opened and your whole life, your real life, the ugly side of life, just fell out and smacked you on the head.

He had to smack me on the head.

If you have been to my house since the maxi-party of '05, you will probably notice that I am more laid back with my entertaining style.

And I am thinking of adding an interior design course for the little ladies. You know I'm not one to miss a learning opportunity...